The OPzS battery, also known as the tubular plate lead-acid battery, is a type of flooded lead-acid battery designed for deep-cycle applications where reliability and long service life are required. Its structure consists of several key components.
- Positive Tubular Plates: The positive plates of an OPzS battery are made of lead dioxide (PbO2) in a tubular form. These tubular plates offer a higher surface area compared to flat plates, providing greater capacity and improving the battery’s performance in deep-cycle applications.
- Negative Plates: The negative plates are typically made of pure lead (Pb). They are usually flat or pasted and are positioned alternately with the positive plates within the battery cell.
- Separators: Separators made of microporous materials such as rubber or plastic are used to electrically insulate the positive and negative plates while allowing the electrolyte to flow freely between them.
- Electrolyte: The electrolyte used in OPzS batteries is typically a dilute sulfuric acid solution (H2SO4), which serves as the medium for ion transport between the positive and negative plates during charge and discharge cycles.
- Container: The container of an OPzS battery is usually made of durable, impact-resistant plastic or hard rubber. It houses the plates, separators, and electrolyte and provides structural support to the battery.
- Vent Caps: OPzS batteries are typically equipped with vent caps that allow for the release of gases produced during charging and discharging. These caps also enable periodic topping up of electrolyte if required.
- Terminal Posts: Terminal posts are attached to the positive and negative plates and extend outside the battery container, providing connections for external electrical circuits.
- Terminal Connectors: Terminal connectors are used to attach external cables or conductors to the terminal posts, allowing the battery to be connected to electrical loads or charging sources.
Overall, the tubular plate design of OPzS batteries enhances their durability, deep-cycle performance, and resistance to sulfation, making them suitable for applications requiring reliable and long-lasting energy storage, such as renewable energy systems, telecommunications, and backup power systems.