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Upgrading from Ni-Cad to Ni-MH Batteries

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  We are often asked if it is safe to replace the original   Ni-Cd batteries (also labeled Ni-Cad or NiCd )   with a newer higher capacity   Ni-MH (also labeled NiMH)   type as an upgrade, when the battery of the device is empty for users or when it is time to upgrade the electrical products manufactured for the factory.  Take emergency lights for example: Emergency lights that used to have nickel-cadmium batteries generally had a longer lifespan. And NiMH batteries of the same physical size have 2 to 4 times the charge capacity of older NiCd batteries. The official recommendation is to use only the same type of battery as the replacement. This is the safest way to ensure that the batteries are properly charged. Of course, theoretically, if the voltage of the NiMH battery and NiCd battery is the same, it can be exchanged. Nickel-cadmium batteries are characterized by low price, high-temperature resistance, and high current discharge, the disadvantages are l...

Emergency Light Batteries: Understanding Recharging and Maintenance

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  Emergency lights  play a crucial role in ensuring safety during power outages or emergencies. They rely on batteries to provide reliable illumination when needed. One common question that arises is whether emergency light batteries are rechargeable. In this article, we will delve into the world of emergency light batteries, exploring their recharging capabilities, maintenance, and the importance of keeping them in optimal condition.   Are Emergency Light Batteries Rechargeable?   Yes, all emergency lights and lighted emergency exit signs use a battery for powering the lamps. In order to insure continuous readiness and operation of the emergency light, these batteries are rechargeable. Circuitry within the emergency light both charges the battery and insures that it stays charged.   Types of Rechargeable Batteries in Emergency Lights   There are several types of  rechargeable batteries  used in emergency lights, each with its own set of advantage...

Emergency Signs and Lights Rely on Different Battery

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  During regular operations, emergency exit signs and lighting are powered by a building's electrical grid. However, in the event of a power outage, the backup power reserve is activated, and the fixtures illuminate using an internal rechargeable battery as a backup power source.   Given that these emergency exit signs and lights serve as crucial lifelines for building occupants during emergencies, their reliability is paramount. Building codes and life safety laws establish essential criteria for backup power to ensure their dependable functionality. A rechargeable internal battery is a requirement for emergency exit signs and lights, with a charging time of less than 24 hours. Additionally, they must deliver sufficient electrical current to keep the lamps illuminated for a minimum of 90 minutes when the unit is in use.   There are four main types of batteries used in emergency exit signage and lighting: Lead Calcium batteries, Ni-Cad (Nickel-Cadmium) batteries, Lithium ...

The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Ni-Cd Battery

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 A Nickel-cadmium or  Ni-Cd Battery  is a rechargeable battery which uses nickel oxide hydroxide and metallic cadmium as electrodes. The most of these batteries have the cell potential of about  1.2 volts. Because NiCd batteries are fairly cheap to produce, they're also relatively cheap to buy and are used for several diverse kinds of devices. This battery comes in a vast array of alternatives and sizes. All are cylindrical, however there are several other choices and these are often cheap. Obviously, a lower selling price is among the biggest benefits to some  Nickel Cadmium Battery . Among the factors for its worth is that the battery requires no specific conditions to be sent. It's easily stored and does not hurt under most normal conditions. Nickel-cadmium batteries offer several advantages and are suitable for a wide range of applications. Cheap Fast charging Easy to store and transport Able to handle large numbers of chargers Functions at lo...

​Emergency Lights - Should I Change the Battery or Change the Entire Fixture?

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  Emergency lights usually come equipped with a battery backup to ensure they continue functioning if the main power supply fails, even if there's no backup generator. In buildings without a generator, it's advisable for exit signs to also have a battery backup.   During fire department inspections, the operational status of emergency lights is typically checked, both when powered and during a power outage. To comply with federal and state regulations, it's essential to maintain emergency lights adequately. When installing new units or upgrading existing ones, the question arises whether to only replace the battery or opt for replacing the entire fixture.   Requirements For Emergency Lights   Emergency lights  serve a critical purpose in illuminating spaces during emergencies like fires. In commercial buildings, it's mandatory to have emergency and exit-path lighting, ensuring illumination and clear identification of hallways, stairwells, and exits. These lights...

What Types of Battery Are Used in Emergency Lighting?

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  Emergency lighting utilizes various types of batteries, with the primary ones being:   1.  Lead-acid batteries : Historically prevalent in self-contained emergency lighting fixtures like twinspots, these were also extensively used in central battery systems. However, their usage in emergency lighting beyond these specific applications has significantly diminished in recent times.       A twinspot emergency light fitting. Till recently, most of these used sealed lead acid batteries, but other chemistries are now being used.   2.  Nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries   are prevalent in stand-alone emergency lighting fixtures and emergency conversion kits. Despite cadmium being highly toxic and among the six substances prohibited by the EU's RoHS Directive, an exemption exists for emergency lighting batteries. Until recently, there have been limited viable alternatives, hence the continued use of NiCd batteries in this context.   A stand-alone...

Emergency Lights - Should I Change the Battery or Change the Entire Fixture?

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Emergency lights typically have a battery back-up that will operate the light in the event the power goes out, regardless of if there’s a generator for back-up power. Exit signs can and should also have a battery, especially if the building doesn’t have generator.   During fire department inspections, the functionality of  emergency lights  is routinely assessed, ensuring they operate seamlessly with or without power. To comply with federal and state regulations, maintaining these lights is crucial. When considering installation of new or updated emergency lights, should you opt to solely change the battery or replace the entire fixture?   Requirements for Emergency Lighting   During emergencies like fires, commercial buildings must have functional emergency and exit-path lighting. These lights are crucial for illuminating hallways, stairwells, and exits. They must emit a minimum of 1.07 lux of light along the emergency exit path at floor level and remain lit fo...