The power situation in places like Nigeria is precarious. Power outages are common, and people can be seen spending long hours in the dark because of the lack of power. The situation has changed, though, in the past few years. Thanks to the introduction of power backup solutions like inverters and generators that supply power when the grid fails.
Inverters run on batteries, the crux of an inverter system, which supplies DC power to the inverter, which then turns it into AC and runs your appliances.
Among all types of inverter batteries, a tubular battery is the most often used for its high reliability and efficient power backup. But what are tubular batteries, and what makes them so popular? In this blog, we will throw light on what tubular batteries are and how they function so that you have a better understanding of the power backup system you are investing in.
Tubular Battery Basics
Tubular batteries are a special type of lead acid battery known for their robust construction and powerful performance. The battery gets its name from the tubular positive plates, differentiating it from conventional flat plate batteries. If you look inside these batteries, you will see a series of positive and negative plates immersed in an electrolyte, which is usually a solution of sulfuric acid and water.
Inside a Tubular Inverter Battery
The positive plates, made from a unique alloy containing lead oxide and other additives, form the heart of a tubular battery. The tubular design of these plates provides a much larger surface area compared to traditional flat plate batteries. This unique and innovative design makes the battery more efficient and enhances its ability to handle deep discharges repeatedly.
How Does a Tubular Battery Work?
A tubular inverter battery works by an electrochemical reaction inside it. The reaction begins when an electrical load is connected to a tubular battery. The lead oxide on the positive plate reacts with sulfuric acid, producing lead sulfate and water. On the negative plates, lead reacts with sulfuric acid to form lead lead sulfate.
As the battery discharges, the lead sulfate accumulates on both the positive and negative plates. However, due to the tubular design of the positive plates, they can endure the process much more efficiently than conventional flat plates.
What Does the Electrolyte Do?
The electrolyte in a tubular inverter battery acts as a catalyst, facilitating the chemical reactions between the active materials on the plates. The electrolyte also acts as a medium through which the ions flow, ensuring the electric charge flows continuously between the positive and negative plates during the discharge and charge cycles.
Charging Process of Tubular Batteries
A tubular battery is charged using external power sources such as an inverter. When you connect the battery to an external power source, the electrochemical process reverses. The charging process involves the breaking down of lead sulfate on the plates and the reformation of lead oxide and sulfuric acid. This process rejuvenates the battery, preparing it for the next discharge cycle.
That was all about tubular batteries and how they function. Now, let’s talk about the various advantages that these batteries come with.
Advantages of Tubular Batteries
A tubular inverter battery comes with many advantages, which is the reason why it has gained so much popularity among users. Here are some benefits that you’ll get when you choose to invest in a tubular battery.
Longer Lifespan
With proper maintenance, tubular batteries can last much longer than traditional flat plate batteries. Their design helps them endure frequent charging and discharging cycles.
Higher Capacity
The tubular battery, owing to its tubular design, delivers energy faster and has at least 20% more electrical capacity than a flat plate.
Performs Well in Extreme Weather Conditions
Tubular batteries are built to be robust, supplying power efficiently in all weather conditions. In addition, they are best suited for areas with frequent power cuts requiring long backup times.
Lower Maintenance
Though not completely maintenance-free, tubular batteries require much less maintenance than conventional flat plate ones, a top-up with deionized water once in four months is all you need to keep the battery running.
Tubular Battery Applications
Tubular batteries are commonly used in a variety of applications, including:
Telecommunications:
Tubular batteries are commonly used in telecommunications systems to provide a reliable and long-lasting power source.
UPS/Inverter Systems:
Tubular batteries are a reliable source that provides backup power during outages.
Solar Power Systems:
Tubular batteries can be easily integrated with solar power systems to store energy from the sun and supply it when needed.
Backup Power for Homes and Businesses:
Tubular batteries are often used in conjunction with inverters to provide backup power during electrical outages. This is especially common in regions with unreliable power grids.
Industrial Applications:
In industries where a continuous power supply is critical, tubular batteries paired with inverters can provide uninterrupted power during outages, preventing disruptions to production processes.
Emergency Lighting Systems:
Tubular batteries are commonly used in emergency lighting systems. During a power outage, these batteries can supply power to emergency lights, ensuring safety in buildings.
Medical Equipment:
In medical facilities, especially in rural or remote areas, tubular batteries and inverters may be used to power essential medical equipment during power interruptions.
Data Centers:
Data centres require a reliable power supply to prevent data loss and maintain operations. Tubular batteries can be part of backup power systems for data centres when paired with inverters.
Educational Institutions:
Tubular batteries are used in schools and colleges to provide backup power for computers, projectors, and other electronic equipment during power outages.
Star Plus: Tubular Inverter Battery You Can Rely On
As discussed above, a tubular battery acts as a reliable power backup solution, and in conjunction with an inverter, it can light up your home when the grid doesn’t. Star Plus is a trusted name in the world of tubular batteries that has been acting as a reliable power backup solution for the people of Nigeria for more than a decade. Our batteries use only the latest technology and quality raw materials, which ensures they perform well under the climatic conditions of Nigeria.