OPzS
OPzS (Operation of Short Circuit) is a type of lead-acid battery commonly used for backup power systems and renewable energy applications. Here are some key features and characteristics of OPzS batteries:
1. Tubular Plate Design: OPzS batteries feature tubular positive plates and a flat pasted negative plate. The use of tubular plates provides excellent resistance to deep discharges and a longer cycle life.
2. Deep Discharge Capability: OPzS batteries are known for their deep discharge capabilities. They can be discharged to a significant extent without causing damage, making them suitable for applications where frequent discharging is required, such as in off-grid solar systems.
3. High Durability: The tubular plate design, combined with the use of acid-immersed separators, contributes to the high durability and longer service life of OPzS batteries.
4. Ventilation and Maintenance: OPzS batteries are typically vented batteries, meaning they have a built-in ventilation system. They also require regular maintenance, including topping up with distilled water, to ensure their proper functioning.
5. Excellent Cycling Performance: These batteries are known for their excellent cycling performance, with a high number of charge and discharge cycles compared to some other battery types.
6. Standby and Deep-Cycle Use: OPzS batteries are suitable for both standby applications (providing backup power in case of outages) and deep-cycle applications (repeated deep discharging and recharging).
7. Common Use in Renewable Energy: They are often used in off-grid and grid-tied renewable energy systems, such as solar power installations and wind farms, due to their ability to handle irregular charging and discharging patterns.
8. Capacity Range: OPzS batteries come in various capacities to meet different energy storage needs, and they can be connected in series and parallel to achieve the required voltage and capacity for specific applications.
9. Safety Precautions: As with all lead-acid batteries, safety precautions should be taken when handling OPzS batteries. They contain sulfuric acid and should be handled carefully to avoid acid spills and contact.
10. Recyclability: Like other lead-acid batteries, OPzS batteries are recyclable, and their lead components can be repurposed in new batteries.
OPzS batteries are known for their reliability and longevity, making them a popular choice in applications where a robust and dependable energy storage solution is required. They are often compared to other types of lead-acid batteries, such as OPzV (Valve Regulated Lead Acid) batteries, which offer different characteristics and advantages. The choice between OPzS and OPzV batteries depends on the specific requirements of the application.
Features
They have a cell voltage of 2V and have to be connected in series to produce higher voltages. Also, they are differentiated from the other types of batteries by their upright and vertical orientation.[1] OPzS batteries also feature High Capacity, Long lifetime, Reduced Maintenance, Low Self-Discharging, Quick and simple acid level control, Economical water consumption, Appropriate dimensions and weight, and the lowest and constant maintenance current.[2]
Differences between OPzS and OPzV batteries
OPzV is the tubular GEL battery. And OPzS is the tubular flooded battery. OPzS is a flooded cell, meaning the electrolyte (generally sulfuric acid) is in liquid form inside the cell. And the electrolyte of OPzV within the battery is in gel form which allows for recombining the electrolyte back into the water. OPzV battery is a sealed battery and users don’t need to maintain the battery. But the OPzS battery is not sealed. Users occasionally need to add distilled water to the top of the battery to maintain the normal use of the battery.[3] OPzS and OPzV batteries are both types of the tubular-plated battery. The differences is in the nature of their electrolytes. While the acid electrolyte of OpzS is FLA, the OPzV is VRLA. It electrolyte is made into gel by the addition of silica dust. Hence they are also referred to as "silicone batteries". Also, the OPzV is valve-regulated, sealed and thus, maintenance-free.[4]
Specifications
Here's an example of the specs of an OPzS battery:
APPLICATION Macro Cells Energy Storage Switchgear and Substation Microgrids Medical Standby Power
TECHNOLOGY / CHEMISTRY Flooded lead acid
CAPACITY (MIN) - EUROPE STANDARD 216
CAPACITY (MAX) - EUROPE STANDARD 3360
CAPACITY EUROPE STANDARD Ah / C10 / 1.8Vpc / 20 °C
CAPACITY (MIN) - US STANDARD 217
CAPACITY (MAX) - US STANDARD 3543
CAPACITY US STANDARD Ah / 8hr / 1.75Vpc / 77 °F
VOLTAGE (MIN) 2
VOLTAGE (MAX) 2
DESIGN Top terminal DIN sizes[5]