Characteristics of Nife Nickel Cadmium Pocket Plate Batteries for Solar Applications

Abstract

Battery characteristics including charge and discharge at rates of C/100 and as low as C/500 which correspond to rates for solar applications are presented. Discharge at low rates gave up to 25% over actual capacity (42% above rated capacity). Excellent results for both charging and discharging, the lower temperature derating for cold weather installations compared to lead acid, low self-discharge properties, excellent resistance to electrical and mechanical abuse, absence of either memory effect or a minimum charge rate acceptance level make Nickel Cadmium Pocket Plate Batteries ideal for solar applications. Examples of typical commercial installations, some of which have been operating reliably for over twelve years, are presented and discussed.