Simply put, a battery of any size or shape converts stored chemical energy into electricity on the connection of a circuit. While the classic AA battery is a fine energy source for torches, radios, TV remotes and alarm clocks, when it comes to heavy duty electrical applications a far more powerful battery is required. Most large businesses simply need a dependable standby option for their uninterrupted power supply (UPS) in the event of mains failure, while medical machinery and many domestic appliances rely on these industrial batteries for continual operation. Due to the constant demand for electricity in all such cases, these batteries need to be rechargeable and have a long life in standby.
The majority of industrial batteries are the lead-acid variety, the oldest type of rechargeable battery having originated in 1859. Lead-acid cells last extremely well in standby, and at the top end of the market such batteries, from the YUASA EN range for example, can promise up to a 15 year lifespan, ideal for use in telecommunications and emergency lighting systems. The high power output of such batteries also supports their use in medical equipment like the heart defibrillator, which absolutely necessitates an immediate surge of high voltage electricity (750V in a tenth of a second) to restart a human pulse. The long lifespan also provides a secure back up option for general medical apparatus such as life support systems which must crucially be kept operating during a power cut.
On the domestic side, industrial type batteries are used to power electric automobiles like go-karts, golf buggies and mobility scooters. These are all vehicles which go through short and intense cycles of use, usually during the daytime, so they can benefit from an overnight recharging period when the weakening battery power begins to reduce the performance output. A large number of elderly people depend upon mobility scooters to get around their neighbourhoods and it is the use of rechargeable industrial batteries which are keeping these a safe, economical and viable option for the continued freedom of movement among the less physically able. Also, people do not need a licence to drive a mobility scooter since there is no fuel combustion and a maximum speed of 8 mph. Many users feel liberated by the freedom to get about without depending on others.
While the energy requirement for small and lightweight vehicles can be met by powerful batteries, larger machinery still depends on fossil fuels. As global industry continues to consume remarkable amounts of energy, it is reassuring to know that rechargeable alternatives like the lead-acid YUASA batteries are available as a dependable, long lasting and recyclable energy source. In the future we may see more battery powered cars on the road and perhaps advances in domestic applications of battery power. Since batteries can be recharged via one of the growing renewable energy sources, this could provide a small part of the solution for keeping the modern world running when fossil fuels run out.
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Dan Oztunc has written 3 article(s) for EnvironmentGreen.com.
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