Saft has launched a low maintenance NiCd battery for high temperature stationary power back-up. Dubbed Uptimax, it is aimed at utilities and the electricity, oil and gas industries.

Pocket-plate cells and proprietary chemistry allows the firm to claim an operational life of at least 12 years at 40[deg]C. Only one water top up is expected to be required in a cell's service life.

At 40 ºC, a single level low-voltage charge for 15 hours will enable it to deliver more than 90% of its capacity.

"Uptimax's behaviour is entirely predictable," said Saft. "So unlike valve regulated lead acid batteries it will never suffer from 'sudden death'."

L-type plate versions from 15 to 1,700Ah are available for 3-100h discharge, or M-type from 8 to 1,330Ah to sustain loads between 30min and 3h.

Cells are assembled in blocks of up to six, and are delivered ready-filled with electrolyte and charged. In normal conditions, an Uptimax battery can be stored for up to 2 years.

More information: www.saftbatteries.com