UPS batteries, also known as uninterruptible power supply batteries, play a crucial role in providing emergency power to keep systems running in the event of a power outage. These batteries are used in a variety of settings, including data centers, hospitals, manufacturing plants, and other critical infrastructure. UPS batteries come in various types, including sealed lead-acid (SLA), wet cell, Absolyte, and lithium-ion batteries. USA Decom specializes in decommissioning and recycling of UPS batteries when their useful life ends.
- Sealed lead-acid (SLA) batteries are one of the most common types of UPS batteries used in many applications. SLA batteries are made up of a lead-acid electrolyte and are sealed within a plastic or metal casing, which makes them maintenance-free. To people that might not be familiar, these look a lot like car batteries but imagine a group of 10 of these on a tray and 4 trays. These batteries are reliable, durable, and have a relatively low cost. SLA batteries are used in small to medium-sized backup power systems, where they can provide backup power for up to several hours.
- Wet cell batteries are larger and heavier than SLA batteries, with a longer lifespan and better performance. Wet cell batteries are made up of an electrolyte solution and lead plates, and require regular maintenance to keep them functioning at optimal levels. These batteries can provide backup power for several hours, making them a good choice for larger backup power systems. These batteries are usually stored on huge steel racks and can take up an entire room. Wet cell batteries can be used in a variety of applications, such as data centers, hospitals, and telecommunications facilities.
- Absolyte batteries are another type of lead-acid battery, designed for high-rate, short-duration discharge applications. Absolyte batteries are sealed and maintenance-free, making them an ideal choice for installations where maintenance is difficult or impossible. These batteries are designed to withstand extreme temperature variations, making them suitable for use in harsh environments. Absolyte batteries are used in a variety of applications, such as telecommunications, renewable energy, and railroad signaling.
- Lithium-ion batteries are relatively new to the UPS battery market, but they have become increasingly popular due to their high energy density, longer lifespan, and faster recharge times. Lithium-ion batteries are lighter and more compact than other battery types, making them ideal for applications where space is limited. These batteries can provide backup power for several hours and are used in various applications, such as data centers, hospitals, and critical infrastructure. Lithium-ion batteries are expensive compared to other battery types, but their benefits in terms of performance, lifespan, and recharge times make them a popular choice for many applications.
While UPS batteries are essential for keeping critical infrastructure up and running, they eventually reach the end of their useful life and need to be decommissioned and recycled properly. Many of these batteries can weigh between 100-800 lbs, making them challenging to handle and transport. Rigging teams like USA Decom are often required to safely disconnect and remove these batteries from their installation sites.
USA Decom offers UPS battery decommissioning and recycling services, ensuring that batteries are safely and responsibly disposed of. The process begins with an on-site evaluation to determine the best course of action. The team then uses specialized equipment and rigging techniques to remove the batteries from the site safely. Once the batteries are removed, USA Decom transports them to a certified recycling facility where the materials are recovered and reused to produce new batteries or other products.
In summary, UPS batteries are essential for providing emergency power to keep critical infrastructure running during power outages. However, these batteries eventually need to be decommissioned and recycled safely and responsibly. USA Decom provides specialized services to handle the safe removal and recycling of UPS batteries, ensuring that they are disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner. Contact us today to start planning your UPS battery removal project.