Emergency power batteries and UPS systems

UPS batteries: A reliable power supply for critical applications

The SSB Pure Lead Power and SSB Battery batteries are high-quality, valve-regulated AGM batteries that have been specially developed for applications involving short but extremely high discharge currents. They combine performance with excellent value for money. Alternatively, the LEOCH pure lead batteries in the PLX series offer a particularly long service life, excellent temperature resistance and rapid rechargeability – ideal for demanding applications. The SSB Battery batteries utilise glass fibre mat technology and are synonymous with the highest quality and reliability.

What is a UPS battery or a UPS system?

UPS stands for uninterruptible power supply. A UPS battery kicks in when the primary power source fails, immediately ensuring a seamless power supply without any delay or interruption.

Battery-backed UPS systems are the most common type and consist of AGM batteries or lead-acid batteries, power converters and an electronic control unit. Such systems are essential for hospitals, banks, data centres and industrial control systems, to prevent data loss, damage to hardware or production downtime.

In addition, a UPS system protects against voltage fluctuations and provides protection against poor mains quality, voltage spikes and harmonics.

How a UPS system works

A UPS constantly monitors the quality of the mains power supply. During normal operation, loads are powered directly from the mains. However, if the UPS detects voltage fluctuations or a power cut, it switches over to the internal battery automatically and without delay.

The direct current stored in the battery is immediately converted into alternating current, ensuring that the connected devices continue to be powered. This function ensures that users have sufficient time to safely complete any ongoing processes or to activate alternative energy sources.

UPS systems can be easily integrated into the power supply and ensure a stable and reliable power supply, which is essential for the smooth operation of sensitive applications

Service life and maintenance of UPS batteries

The UPS battery is the heart of every UPS system, but is often underestimated. To ensure a reliable emergency power supply, regular battery tests and timely replacement are essential.

Factors affecting service life:

• Operating temperature: Ideally between 20 °C and 25 °C. Temperatures that are too high or too low can drastically reduce the battery’s service life.
• Charging behaviour: Deep discharge should be avoided, as it significantly reduces performance.
• Storage: UPS batteries should not be left unused for longer than 6–12 months. Regular recharging (every 3–6 months) is required.

Provided the equipment is used correctly, the service life of the UPS battery can be significantly extended.

When and why should a UPS battery be replaced?

Most UPS systems contain maintenance-free, gas-tight batteries, in which chemical processes take place continuously. Even when they are not in use, they are subject to a natural ageing process.

In addition, the following factors may affect the service life:

• Temperature conditions
• Charge cycles
• Discharge times
• Operating mode and maintenance intervals

Manufacturers classify UPS batteries in accordance with the EUROBAT standard. A EUROBAT 5 battery is designed for a service life of five years under optimal conditions. In safety-critical areas, however, it is advisable to replace the battery as a precaution after just three years to avoid failures.

Batteries are subject to wear and tear even when not in use. A long period of inactivity can impair performance, particularly due to the formation of sulphate deposits, which reduce capacity. Regular test runs every six months can minimise this effect and keep the battery in working order in the long term.

Applications of UPS batteries

UPS batteries are used in numerous critical infrastructures, including:

• Data centres & IT infrastructure (PCs, servers, network nodes)
• Healthcare (hospitals, laboratories, medical equipment)
• Security & alarm systems (access control, surveillance systems, emergency lighting)
• Financial sector (banks, point-of-sale systems)
• Industry & manufacturing (automation, machine control)

The choice of a suitable UPS system depends on various factors, including the type of equipment to be protected, the required backup time and individual safety requirements.

Personalised advice on the best UPS solution

Do you need professional advice on choosing the right UPS batteries and systems? Our team of experts is on hand to help. Get in touch with us today and ensure a reliable power supply!