Nickel Cadmium Batteries: A Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide

If you’re looking for a reliable, long-lasting battery for your device, you’ve probably heard of nickel-cadmium batteries, or Ni-Cd batteries for short. But what are Ni-Cd batteries? How do they work? What are the advantages and disadvantages of using Ni-Cd batteries? How do you choose the best Ni-Cd battery for your needs? How can you safely and effectively use, recycle, repair, and replace Ni-Cd batteries? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll answer all of these questions and more.

Power range	Some kW – some
Energy range	< some 10 M Wh
Discharge time	Some mn – some h
Cycle life	1 000-5 000 cycles
Life duration	10 – 20 years
Reaction time	Some ms
Efficiency	60-70 %
Energy (power) density	30-70 Wh/kg
CAPEX: energy	400 – 700 € / kWh
CAPEX: power	500 – 1 500 € / kW

What is a NiCad battery?

A nickel-cadmium battery is a rechargeable battery that uses nickel hydroxide and metallic cadmium as the positive and negative electrodes, respectively. The electrolyte is usually potassium hydroxide, a strong alkaline solution. The chemical reactions that occur in a nickel-cadmium battery are as follows:

NiO(OH)+Cd+2H2​O↔Ni(OH)2​+Cd(OH)2​

How to choose nickel-cadmium batteries?

If you decide to buy NiCad batteries, there are several factors to consider, such as capacity, voltage, size, shape, and price. The following tips can help you choose the best NiCad battery for your needs:

• Capacity: The capacity of a battery is measured in milliampere-hours (mAh), which indicates how much power the battery can store and deliver. The higher the capacity, the longer the battery can run. However, capacity also depends on the battery’s discharge rate, temperature, and age. You should choose a battery with enough capacity to power your device, but not too large, which would waste energy and money.
• Voltage: The voltage of a battery is measured in volts (V), which indicates how much electrical potential the battery can provide. The higher the voltage, the more powerful the battery is. However, the voltage also depends on the battery’s internal resistance, the load, and the state of charge. You should choose a battery with the same or compatible voltage as your device, but not too high or it will damage your device, nor too low or it will reduce performance.
• Size and Shape: The size and shape of a battery determines how well it fits into your device and how easy it is to handle and store. Battery size and shape are usually indicated by letter codes, such as AA, AAA, C, D, 9V, etc. You should choose a battery that is the same or compatible size and shape as your device, but not too large, which adds weight and bulk, nor too small, which reduces capacity and power.
• Price: The price of a battery reflects the quality, performance and features of the battery. The price of a battery also depends on the brand, model and availability of the battery. You should choose a battery that is reasonably priced and in line with your budget and expectations, but not too cheap to compromise on quality and safety, nor too expensive to exceed value and benefits.

How to use nickel-cadmium batteries safely and efficiently?

NiCad batteries can provide reliable, stable power to your devices, but you need to use it safely and efficiently to avoid any potential risks and problems.

deal with:

Handle NiCad batteries with care to avoid physical damage such as punctures, cuts, dents or cracks. Keep batteries away from fire, heat, water, moisture and corrosive substances to prevent leakage, explosion or fire. Wear protective gloves and goggles when handling batteries and wash hands thoroughly after handling.

Install:

Install NiCad batteries correctly and safely, ensuring polarity, voltage, and size are as specified in the device. Avoid mixing batteries of different types, brands, models, or years in the same device to prevent imbalance, overheating, or damage. Remove batteries from devices when not in use or after they have been fully charged or discharged to prevent unnecessary power drain or self-discharge.

store:

Store NiCad batteries in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity. Keep them away from metal objects such as coins, keys, or jewelry to avoid short circuits or sparks. Label and organize batteries by type, brand, model, and age, and check them regularly for signs of aging or leakage.

Charging and discharging:

Properly charge and discharge NiCad batteries regularly using appropriate and compatible chargers and equipment. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations to avoid overcharging, over-discharging, or undercharging to maintain the battery’s capacity, performance, and life. Do not charge or discharge batteries in extreme temperatures or when the battery is too hot or cold to the touch to prevent thermal runaway or damage. Perform a full charge and discharge cycle at least once a month to prevent memory effect and voltage drop.

How to recycle and dispose of NiCad batteries?

• Sorting: Batteries are sorted by type, brand, model and condition and separated from other waste.
• Shredding: Shredding or tearing the batteries into small pieces to separate the metal and plastic components.
• Smelting: The metal components are smelted or melted in a furnace to recover and purify cadmium, nickel and lead.
• Refining: Recovered metals are refined and processed into new products, such as new batteries, alloys or electrodes.
• Neutralization: Plastic and electrolyte components are neutralized and treated with chemicals, and water and gases are filtered and purified.
• Landfill: The remaining waste is landfilled or incinerated in a controlled and safe manner.

How to Repair and Restore NiCad Batteries?

Reconditioning and restoring a Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) battery requires several steps to restore its capacity and performance. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

Safety first

• Protective equipment : Wear gloves and goggles.
• Environmental Control System : Work in a well-ventilated area and avoid breathing hazardous fumes.
• Tools and Materials : You will need a voltmeter, battery charger, distilled water, Epsom salts, syringe, and desulfurizer if you have one.

A step-by-step process

1. Initial Check :
   • Inspect the battery for physical damage. If the battery casing is cracked or leaking, discard it safely without attempting to repair it.
2. Discharge the battery :
   • Discharge it completely. You can do this with a battery-powered device. Make sure the battery is fully discharged before proceeding.
3. Cleaning the contacts :
   • Clean the battery contacts using a soft brush and a baking soda and water solution. This will help ensure a good connection.
4. Check voltage :
   • Use a voltmeter to check the voltage of each cell. A fully charged NiCad cell should read around 1.2V. If a cell reads significantly lower, it is probably sulfating.
5. Desulfurization (optional but recommended):
   • Connect a desulfator to the battery. This device uses high-frequency pulses to break down sulfate crystals on the battery plates, thereby improving performance.
6. Deep Discharge and Repair :
   • Deep discharge is performed by connecting the battery to a low-power device and allowing it to run until the battery is completely drained again.
   • Condition the battery by repeatedly charging and discharging it. Charge the battery fully, then discharge it fully. Repeat this cycle three to five times. This helps restore capacity by balancing the cells and eliminating any memory effect.
7. Replace the electrolyte :
   • Opening the Cells : If possible, carefully open the cells. Some NiCad batteries allow the individual cells to be removed.
   • To change the electrolyte : Use a syringe to draw out some of the old electrolyte and replace it with a solution of distilled water and Epsom salts (1 teaspoon per cup of water). Be careful not to overfill.
8. To charge the battery :
   • Charge the batteries using a charger designed for NiCad batteries. Slow charging is recommended to avoid overheating and ensure all cells are fully charged.
9. Last exam :
   • After the battery is fully charged, test it under load to ensure that the battery holds its charge and operates properly. Use the device powered by the battery and check that its performance is stable.

Maintenance Tips

• Regular use : NiCad batteries perform best with regular use. Avoid leaving them in a discharged state for long periods of time.
• Proper Storage : Store NiCad batteries in a cool, dry place. For long-term storage, discharge the battery to approximately 40% capacity.
• Avoid overcharging : Use a charger with a built-in cutoff to prevent overcharging, as overcharging may damage the battery.

Environmental considerations

Nickel-cadmium batteries contain toxic cadmium, so proper disposal and recycling are essential. If the battery cannot be repaired, take it to a recycling center that handles nickel-cadmium batteries.

How to upgrade and replace NiCad batteries?

Replacing and upgrading nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries involves selecting the appropriate replacement, ensuring compatibility, and safely installing the new battery.

1. Identify battery specifications

• Check voltage and capacity: Make sure the voltage (V) and capacity (mAh or Ah) of the new battery match the old battery. These specifications are usually printed on the battery.
• Determine Form Factor: Make sure the new battery will fit in the same physical space as the old battery. NiCad batteries come in a variety of shapes and sizes (e.g., AA, AAA, Sub-C).

2. Select a replacement battery

• Same chemistry: If you prefer to use NiCad batteries, look for ones with matching specs.
• Upgrading Chemistry: If compatible, consider upgrading to Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) or Lithium Ion (Li-ion). These alternatives offer higher capacity and longer life, but require compatible chargers and devices.

3. Safety precautions

• Turn off the device: Before you begin, make sure the device is turned off and unplugged.
• AVOID SHORT CIRCUIT: Handle batteries with care to prevent short circuits. Do not touch the battery terminals with metal objects.
• Proper Disposal: Dispose of old NiCad batteries according to local regulations. NiCad batteries contain cadmium, which is toxic, and should not be thrown into the regular trash.

4. Remove the old battery

• Accessing the Battery Compartment: Open the device to access the battery compartment. This may require unscrewing a panel or removing a cover.
• Disconnect the battery: If the battery is connected by wires, gently disconnect the wires. Note the orientation and connections of the new battery.

5. Install new batteries

• Battery placement: Place the new battery in the same location as the old battery.
• Reconnect the wires: If applicable, reconnect the wires to the new battery, making sure to follow the correct polarity (positive to positive, negative to negative).
• Secure the battery: Make sure the battery is firmly seated. If necessary, close the battery compartment and screw it back in.

6. Testing

• Power on the device: Turn on the device to check if the new battery is working properly.
• Charging the Batteries: If you have upgraded to a different battery chemistry, use a charger appropriate for the new battery type. NiMH and Li-Ion batteries require a different charging protocol than NiCad batteries.

7. Maintaining new batteries

• Proper Charging: Charge new batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid overcharging or deep discharging.
• Storage: When not in use, store batteries in a cool, dry place. NiCad batteries have a memory effect; occasional full discharges help maintain capacity.

Notes on upgrading to NiMH or Li-ion batteries:

• NiMH: Offers higher capacity and less memory effect. Make sure your device and charger are compatible.
• Lithium-ion: Offers higher energy density and longer life, but requires a specific charger and may not be compatible with all devices designed for NiCad batteries.

Tools and Materials Required:

• Screwdriver (for opening the battery compartment)
• Replaceable battery (NiCd, NiMH or Li-ion, optional)
• Compatible charger (if upgrading to a different type of battery)
• Safety gloves (optional, for handling batteries)