6 Types Of Rechargeable Batteries – Why Are These Popular?
Rechargeable batteries are an everyday need in modern life, especially for professionals who use cordless power tools.
They prefer this invention for portability and efficiency. Now, why do they prefer this rechargeable battery? What are the reasons for popularity?
Two of the questions will be described in this post. You will know the basics of rechargeable batteries, including 6 popular types. The types will also be discussed in brief with their usage. So, let’s start!
What is a Rechargeable Battery?
Rechargeable batteries are considered a secondary source. It means you can load or unload the charge as many times as possible. The DC recharges this battery when it is discharged.
That’s the basic idea about rechargeable batteries. If I go deeper, then this will be the technical definition:
Rechargeable batteries have one or more electrochemical cells; these cells are reversible through batteries’ chemical reactions. As a result, it can be recharged with DC.
Why are rechargeable batteries used?
The answer is simple; rechargeable batteries are used for portability and saving time. We are, in fact, the generation who largely relies on rechargeable batteries.
For example, I have a portable workstation; I use the battery-powered saw for cutting the material most of the time.
My tools are more powerful than a year before: it’s because of the evolution of batteries. Present batteries are as powerful as primary batteries. The rechargeable batteries are used for less time consumption and effective work results.
Types of Rechargeable Batteries
Here I listed the 6 popular widely used batteries; you will know about each of the batteries with its usage.
- Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) Battery
NiCd batteries are made from Nickel (NI) and Cadmium (Cd). The positive electrode has nickel hydroxide; the negative electrode has cadmium hydroxide.
This battery is unique for its steady voltage capacity. When there are low voltage issues, it can provide a powerful delivery.
Not only the feature made it distinguishable, but also the low internal-resistance made it better. How?
NiCd batteries use this low resistance for fast charging and let the internal temperature low. This is why power tools are now preferring NiCd battery.
Usage:
Power tools like cordless saw need constant voltage; if it compromises, the work will slow down. And NiCd does not let it happen. It ensures a steady voltage from the beginning; workers won’t experience any power drop during their usage.
It’s because of high endurance, which means the battery can perform like the beginning when the charge is low. This battery also takes 1 to 2 hours for full charge: a perfect signal for efficient working. That is why people are moving toward this battery.
- Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) Battery
Cordless power tools rely on three types of batteries: NiMH is one of them. The two cells of this battery are different from each other.
The positive electrode has nickel-hydrogen oxide, and the negative one is composed of a hydrogen alloy. And this alloy made it 3 times better than NiCd batteries.
Not only that, but it is also eco-friendly. Let me share a quick overview of the reasons for being eco-friendly: back in 1990, there was a debate on health concerns. Scientists found NiCd had severe chemical reactions at that time. So, the NiMH started to rise for its less emission of gases.
Usage:
I will write the stated story one day in-depth: for now, let’s focus on some essential use of Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries.
The battery is mostly used for high drained devices such as cordless power tools. These tools need constant voltage without the drop.
NiMH ensured that even in low-voltage. If we look at cordless saws, then we will notice a constant cutting experience.
Like the cordless tools, it is also used in Digital cameras for low-resistance. This advantage keeps the internal temperature moderate even in high use.
- Lead Acid Battery
Lead Acid Introduced the concept of rechargeable battery. Gaston Plante first invented it.
The reason for this invention is to use it in automobile engines and starter motors. Why? Because the components need a high current surge, it helps them to run the engine properly.
Usage:
This battery is mainly used in vehicles, ships, and aircraft. For different areas, different batteries are used.
For example, ships have marine batteries to endure heavy pressures. The pressures are like harsh marine conditions and excessive vibration.
This load can be taken when the battery is manufactured properly. And that’s why marine batteries have a combination of deep cycle and cranking battery.
This combination takes less time to recharge and works faster than it is. So, that is the one everyday use of lead-acid batteries.
- Lithium-Ion (Li-ion) Battery
Present cordless tools are light; have you noticed it? Yes. There are a lot of factors for this lightweight. And Li-ion batteries are one of them.
This battery is portable and lightweight. Let me explain the reason why? It is because of the battery construction.
Li-ion is made from carbon, metal oxide, and lithium salt; these chemicals are lighter than NiCd and NiMH. As a result, the battery makes the tool portable.
Usage:
For high capacity and quick charge time, Li-ion batteries are now in the stage of dominance. Many power tools like cordless drills and Cordless jigsaw, Chain saw are relying on this.
Why? It needs less maintenance and can last more than 3 years. Plus, the battery has a flexible temperature control; it can reduce the internal heat. That is the reason it is widely used.
- Lithium-Ion Polymer (Li-ion polymer)
The fundamental difference between Li-ion and Li-ion polymers is its material. Li-ion has lithium salt -an organic solvent and a polymer that has a solid composite like polyethylene oxide.
This difference impacts largely on manufacturing costs and shape. Yes! Believe it or not, the manufacturing cost is 30% less than Li-ion, even better for the desired battery shape.
Usage:
Lithium polymer batteries are used for two main reasons: shape and efficiency. When size and weight are crucial, including efficiency, designers use this battery. Designers prefer this mostly for low-budget power tools.
- Sealed Lead Acid (SLA)
SLA is a part of lead-acid batteries; it is also known as a valve-regulated battery. This battery comes in two types: absorbed glass matt and gelified electrolyte.
Usage:
The battery is used for emergency power supply. When there is a chance of significant power failure, this battery supports instantly—some of the portable band saws use this battery for immediate performance.
Conclusion
I have explained 6 types of batteries, including their usage. I also added basic info before that; it will help a new wood or metal worker have the right idea about rechargeable batteries.
Not only that, but also, the entire article answers two questions that I mentioned in the intro. So, let me know if you got the answers or not? And don’t forget to share this with your friends.