Types and Working Principles of Sealed Lead Acid Battery: Its Application on Medical Devices

Sealed Lead-Acid (SLA) batteries have been a workhorse in various applications for decades, thanks to their reliability and cost-effectiveness. Whether used in uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), alarm systems, emergency lighting, or other devices, understanding the principles behind SLA batteries can help you make informed decisions about their usage and maintenance. In this detailed blog, we will delve into the fundamental principles of sealed lead-acid batteries.

What Is a Sealed Lead-Acid Battery?

A Sealed Lead-Acid (SLA) battery is a type of rechargeable battery that has been a staple in various industries for its reliability and versatility. What sets SLA batteries apart is their sealed design, which distinguishes them from traditional flooded lead-acid batteries. This sealed construction means that SLA batteries are entirely maintenance-free and do not require periodic refilling with water. They are composed of lead dioxide and sponge lead plates immersed in a sulfuric acid electrolyte. During operation, chemical reactions between the plates and the electrolyte generate electrical energy, making SLA batteries a dependable choice for applications like uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), emergency lighting, security systems, and more. Their spill-proof design, low self-discharge rate, and adaptability in various environments have made sealed lead-acid batteries a go-to power source for many critical and everyday uses.

The Chemistry Behind SLA Batteries

The working principles of a Sealed Lead-Acid (SLA) battery are based on electrochemical reactions. When discharging, the battery converts chemical energy into electrical energy. Here’s a simplified explanation of the working principles:

  1. Discharge: When a load is connected to the battery, the lead dioxide (positive plate) reacts with the sponge lead (negative plate) in the presence of sulfuric acid. This chemical reaction produces lead sulfate and releases electrical energy. Electrons flow through the external circuit, creating an electric current.
  2. Charge: During the charging process, the battery is connected to an external power source. The reverse reaction occurs, converting the lead sulfate back into lead dioxide and sponge lead while storing electrical energy for future use. Charging replenishes the battery’s capacity.

These principles underlie the basic operation of SLA batteries, enabling them to store and deliver electrical power for various applications.

Types of Sealed Lead-Acid Batteries

Sealed lead-acid batteries come in different variants, including:

Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM): These batteries use fibreglass mats to absorb and immobilize the electrolyte, making them maintenance-free, highly resistant to vibrations, and suitable for a wide range of applications.

Gel Cell: Gel cell batteries use a silica gel that immobilizes the electrolyte. They are known for their deep cycle capabilities and are often used in solar and marine applications.

Valve-Regulated Lead-Acid (VRLA): VRLA batteries are designed with pressure relief valves to regulate internal pressure. This design prevents gas release and makes them ideal for UPS systems.

Role of SLA batteries in medical devices

Sealed Lead-Acid (SLA) batteries play a critical role in various medical devices, ensuring the reliable operation of essential equipment. Here’s how SLA batteries are used in medical applications:

  1. Backup Power: SLA batteries are used in medical devices such as ventilators, infusion pumps, and patient monitoring systems to provide a backup power source. This is crucial in case of power outages or when a patient needs to be moved.
  2. Mobility Aids: Electric wheelchairs and mobility scooters often rely on SLA batteries for power. These devices offer mobility and independence to individuals with limited mobility.
  3. Portable Defibrillators: Many portable defibrillators used in hospitals, ambulances, and public places use SLA batteries. These batteries ensure that the defibrillator is ready for use in life-saving situations.
  4. Transport and Ambulances: SLA batteries are used in ambulances and patient transport systems to power medical equipment, maintain lighting and operate communication systems during transit.
  5. Diagnostic Equipment: Various medical diagnostic devices, including blood analyzers, portable X-ray machines, and ultrasound systems, use SLA batteries for power in remote or emergency settings.
  6. Hospital Beds: Electric hospital beds, which can be adjusted for patient comfort, rely on SLA batteries to provide power for adjustments and patient positioning.
  7. Dental Chairs: Dental chairs often use SLA batteries as a backup power source to ensure dental procedures can continue even during power interruptions.
  8. Mobile Clinics: In mobile medical clinics and field hospitals, SLA batteries power a wide range of medical devices, allowing healthcare professionals to provide essential care in remote or disaster-stricken areas.

The role of SLA batteries in medical devices is to provide a reliable and uninterrupted power source, ensuring that these devices can function when needed, whether in a clinical setting or during emergency situations. The maintenance-free nature of SLA batteries makes them particularly well-suited for critical medical applications.

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