As lithium-ion UPS systems gain more popularity within the critical power industry, more questions regarding their use, efficiency, and chemistry arise. This article addresses the most commonly asked questions about lithium-ion UPS systems.
Q: What are the primary benefits of a lithium-ion UPS System?
A: The primary benefit of owning a lithium-ion UPS system is the lower total cost of ownership. There are two characteristics that contribute to this, 1. The longevity of the system, 2. Reduction in maintenance costs. In comparison, to valve-regulated lead acid (VRLA) UPS systems, lithium-ion systems lifespans are twice as long with minimal or no maintenance, making for a reliable long-term investment.
Q: Are Lithium-Ion UPS systems more expensive?
A: Upfront, a lithium-ion UPS system can often be more expensive than UPS systems with other battery systems. However, the Lithium-Ion UPS system requires little to no maintenance and thus limited maintenance expense.
Q: What type of maintenance is required for a lithium-ion UPS system or battery?
A: Lithium-ion UPS systems have very low maintenance requirements. Two maintenance requirements recommended by engineers to keep your lithium-ion UPS or lithium-ion battery running smoothly are regularly charging and discharging the lithium-ion battery every 2-3 months, and secondly, utilizing a communication control program to actively monitor the status of your system.
Q: What temperature should a lithium-ion UPS system operate at?
A: To operate normally, a lithium-ion UPS system should operate in a temperature-controlled room of 68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit. However, unlike other standard UPS VRLA battery systems, a lithium-ion battery system can operate at a maximum of 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
Q: What is the cycle life of a lithium-ion battery in a UPS system?
A: Cycle life refers to the number of times a battery can expect to be fully discharged and recharged before it needs to be replaced. A lithium-ion battery can survive more than 1000 cycles. However, the number of cycles is dependent on a number of factors, such as the application's surroundings, usage, etc.
