Understanding Battery Options for Emergency Lighting
March 13, 2024
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When comparing emergency lighting costs, consider the total lifetime cost, including battery maintenance. While some options may seem cheaper initially, frequent replacements due to poor battery performance can increase long-term expenses.
Battery Types for Emergency Lighting
Several battery options are available for emergency lighting, each with its own advantages and drawbacks:
- Central Battery Systems: These powerful systems are typically used in large buildings and require specialized installation and maintenance.
- Lead-Acid Batteries: A cost-effective option, but they have a shorter lifespan and higher self-discharge rate compared to other options.
- Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) Batteries: Offer a good balance between cost and performance, but their lifespan and discharge rate fall short of Lithium batteries.
- Nickel-Cadmium (Ni-Cd) Batteries: A mature technology known for durability, but Ni-Cd batteries have environmental concerns due to their cadmium content and are being phased out in some regions.
- Lithium Batteries: Offer superior performance with high energy density, long lifespan, and fast charging capabilities. However, they can be a more expensive option upfront.
Epowertech's Focus on Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) Batteries
Epowertech prioritizes LiFePO4 batteries in its emergency lighting solutions due to their numerous advantages:
- Energy Efficiency: LiFePO4 batteries boast double the energy density of Ni-MH and triple that of Ni-Cd, requiring a smaller physical size.
- Reduced Maintenance: The slow self-discharge rate (3-5% per month) minimizes charger activity compared to Ni-MH/ Ni-Cd batteries, reducing energy consumption and maintenance needs.
- Extended Lifespan: LiFePO4 batteries support fast charging and offer a significantly longer lifespan (2000 cycles) compared to Ni-MH/Ni-Cd (500 cycles).
- High-Temperature Performance: LiFePO4 batteries tolerate higher ambient temperatures (up to 60°C) compared to Ni-MH (50°C) and Ni-Cd (55°C).
- Environmentally Friendly: LiFePO4 batteries are a more sustainable choice compared to Ni-Cd batteries, which contain harmful heavy metals like cadmium.
By prioritizing LiFePO4 batteries, Epowertech provides emergency lighting solutions that are cost-effective in the long run, require minimal maintenance, and contribute to a greener environment.