Tekcell Batteries

Overview

Tekcell produces primary lithium batteries designed for long-life, maintenance-light use in industrial and remote applications. Their lineup centers on 3.6V lithium thionyl chloride (Li-SOCl2) cells for ultra-long service life and 3.0V lithium manganese dioxide (Li-MnO2) cells for higher pulse capability. Typical uses include utility metering (AMR/AMI), SCADA/RTU, remote sensors, asset tracking, and memory backup in controllers.

Key technologies

• Li-SOCl2 (3.6V nominal): very low self-discharge (often around 1%/year at 20–25°C), high energy density (~500–700 Wh/kg), wide operating range (about -55°C to +85°C). Best for low average current with occasional pulses.
• Li-MnO2 (3.0V nominal): good pulse performance and moderate energy density. Useful when devices need higher burst currents without external pulse support.
• Primary (non-rechargeable): do not charge; select a rechargeable chemistry (e.g., Li-ion or LiFePO4) if you need cycling.

Choosing a Tekcell battery

• Average load: Li-SOCl2 excels at microamp to low milliamp averages for multi-year runtime.
• Pulse demand: For brief radio bursts (e.g., 50–200 mA), use a pulse-support capacitor or a hybrid/high-pulse variant. Check the device profile and datasheet curves.
• Temperature: Verify the rated range; most Li-SOCl2 cells operate roughly -55°C to +85°C. Capacity and pulse capability drop at low temperatures.
• Size and capacity: Pick the smallest size that meets runtime with margin (20–30%).
• Terminations: Choose the correct tabs, pins, axial leads, or connectors for your assembly method.
• Voltage compatibility: Many industrial devices expect 3.6V Li-SOCl2; some expect 3.0V Li-MnO2. Match what the device specifies.

Popular sizes and typical use

Size / Model	Nominal V	Typical capacity	When to choose
AA (e.g., SB-AA11)	3.6V	~2.4–2.7 Ah	Compact metering, sensors, backups with multi-year goals and modest pulse needs.
C (e.g., SB-B12)	3.6V	~8.5–9.0 Ah	Remote telemetry and AMI/AMR with higher capacity needs; occasional radio bursts.
D (e.g., SB-D02)	3.6V	~17–19 Ah	Longest field life for SCADA/RTU, oil & gas sensors, and harsh environments.
1/2AA, 2/3A, others	3.6V or 3.0V	~1.2–1.8 Ah (varies)	Tight spaces, memory backup, compact IoT nodes.

Note: Capacities and performance vary by model and temperature; always confirm with the datasheet.

Quick runtime estimate

Runtime (hours) ≈ Capacity (mAh) ÷ Average load (mA). Example: a D-size Li-SOCl2 at 18,000 mAh powering a 100 µA average load could last ≈ 180,000 hours (~20.5 years). Real-world life will be limited by self-discharge, temperature, and pulse load; plan conservatively for 10–15 years in the field.

Application notes

• Metering/AMI: Ultra-low average current with daily or hourly radio bursts; add a pulse capacitor if required by the radio.
• SCADA/RTU and sensors: Favor C or D sizes for long intervals between service visits.
• Memory backup/PLCs: AA or 1/2AA cells keep SRAM/RTC alive for years; verify current draw in standby.
• Tracking/telemetry: Consider temperature profile and enclosure space; ensure adequate pulse support.

Storage and shelf life

• Store in a cool, dry place (roughly 0–30°C). Avoid prolonged high heat.
• Li-SOCl2 cells typically retain most capacity for 10+ years due to low self-discharge (often around 1%/year at room temperature).
• Do not store installed in equipment that draws parasitic current unless planned for.

Handling and safety

• Do not charge, short, crush, or incinerate. Use only in compatible devices.
• Primary lithium cells can deliver high fault currents; use protected holders and correct polarity.
• Follow local regulations for disposal and recycling. For shipping, reference UN 3090/3091 and applicable IATA/IMDG rules.

Compatibility and replacements

• Match chemistry and voltage (3.6V Li-SOCl2 vs 3.0V Li-MnO2).
• Verify size, length, and terminations (tabs/pins/axial leads) against the original part. Tekcell part suffixes often denote lead style.
• If the device specifies a high-pulse variant or a capacitor, include it to prevent brownouts during transmissions.

Alternatives

• Need sustained high current? Consider Li-MnO2 or a hybrid Li-SOCl2 solution with pulse assistance.
• Need rechargeability or frequent data bursts? Consider Li-ion or LiFePO4 with proper charging and protection.

FAQ

Are Tekcell batteries rechargeable?

No. Tekcell Li-SOCl2 and Li-MnO2 cells are primary (non-rechargeable). Charging can cause leakage or rupture.

How long will a Tekcell battery last in the field?

It depends on average load, pulse profile, and temperature. Many metering and sensor nodes achieve multi-year operation; plan using your device’s measured current profile and add margin for self-discharge and cold-weather derating.

Can they power high-drain devices like radios continuously?

They are best for low average currents. For bursty radios, use a pulse-support capacitor or a high-pulse variant. For sustained high drain, choose a different chemistry.

What temperatures can they handle?

Typical Li-SOCl2 operating range is roughly -55°C to +85°C. Actual performance versus temperature (especially pulse capability) should be verified in the datasheet and your application tests.

What should I match when replacing a battery?

Match chemistry, voltage, size, and termination style, and confirm the device’s pulse requirements. When in doubt, select the same model and lead configuration specified by the OEM.