Rechargeable pen batteries are one of the most widely used accessories used in a variety of electronic and industrial devices. These batteries help preserve the environment with their rechargeable capabilities and do not need to be replaced frequently. Although their purchase cost is higher than disposable batteries, they have a longer lifespan.
These types of batteries are classified as electrochemical cells and are charged using DC current. Depending on the type of charger, the battery can be charged in a few hours to 15 minutes. You may be wondering how to distinguish a rechargeable pen battery from disposable batteries? Join us in this article from EDC to find your answer.
Types of Rechargeable Batteries
There are different types of rechargeable batteries on the market, which differ from each other according to the type of chemical substance and their application:
Lithium-ion batteries (Li-ion): These types of batteries are used in portable electronic devices, electric scooters and electric vehicles. These batteries have a higher energy density and are smaller in weight and volume than other types of batteries.
Nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) batteries: These types of batteries are used in digital cameras, gaming devices and some electrical tools. They have a higher capacity than nickel-cadmium batteries and are also less harmful to the environment.
Nickel-cadmium (Ni-CD) batteries: These types of batteries are used in small devices such as toys or remote controls.
Lithium-polymer batteries (Li-pol): Due to the use of polymer electrolyte, these types of batteries are more flexible than lithium-ion batteries and are used in some mobile phones and lightweight devices.
Advantages and disadvantages of rechargeable pen batteries
The advantages of rechargeable pen batteries include the following:
Economical savings: Rechargeable pen batteries can be used repeatedly, thus reducing battery replacement costs. The initial cost of purchasing a rechargeable battery may be slightly higher than disposable batteries, but the longer lifespan justifies its higher price.
No need for frequent replacement: Unlike disposable batteries that must be discarded after their energy runs out, rechargeable batteries can be used again by connecting them to a charger.
Reducing environmental pollution: Reusing rechargeable batteries reduces battery waste and waste, which is beneficial for the environment.
The disadvantages of these batteries include:
Lower voltage: Rechargeable batteries have a lower voltage than regular batteries, which may reduce the performance of devices.
Additional cost for charger: To use rechargeable batteries, you must also pay a fee to purchase a suitable charger.
Decreased efficiency over time: Rechargeable batteries become weaker over time and lose their ability to hold a charge.
Heating and swelling: After prolonged use, these batteries may become hot or even swell, which can cause damage to the battery or the devices using them.
Methods for diagnosing a rechargeable pen battery
There are a few simple and practical methods that can be used to identify a rechargeable pen battery:
Check the markings and inscriptions on the battery
One of the easiest ways to identify whether a battery is rechargeable is to pay attention to the inscriptions on the battery. Rechargeable pen batteries are marked with phrases such as “Rechargeable” or “Ready to use”. These phrases indicate that the battery is reusable and can be recharged after it has been discharged. In contrast, non-rechargeable batteries have a phrase such as “Do not recharge” which warns users that this battery is not designed for reuse.
Rechargeable Battery Symbol
Charger Symbol or Charging Symbol: Rechargeable batteries are identified with a charger symbol or symbols such as “NiMH” (for nickel-metal hydride batteries) or “Li-ion” (for lithium-ion batteries).
Charge Cycle Indicator: Some rechargeable batteries are listed with the number of times they can be recharged, such as “1000 cycles” or “500 cycles”.
The Letter “R” in the Model Name: Some rechargeable batteries have the letter “R” in the model name to indicate that they are rechargeable.
Non-Rechargeable Battery Symbol
Red Error Symbol (X): Some non-rechargeable batteries are usually identified with a red error symbol or “Do not recharge”.
The words “Non-rechargeable” or “Single use”: These batteries are not rechargeable and are not labeled on the packaging.
Alkaline Battery Symbol: Non-rechargeable batteries, such as alkaline batteries, are identified by the symbol “Alkaline”.
Size and Weight
Rechargeable batteries usually come in standard sizes such as AA (pen) and AAA (half-pen). AA batteries are about 5 cm long and 1.2 to 1.4 cm in diameter, and weigh between 14 and 32 grams. On the other hand, AAA batteries are smaller than AA batteries and have a lower capacity. However, size and weight should not be considered as the only criteria for determining whether a battery is rechargeable, because manufacturers may offer different sizes of rechargeable batteries. Therefore, other signs should be paid attention to as well.
Using a Battery Tester
The most advanced way to determine whether a battery is rechargeable is to use battery testers. These devices can accurately measure the battery capacity and determine whether the battery is rechargeable or not. These test tools will help you distinguish between rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries. This method is especially useful for those who are in technical work and repair of various devices.
Rechargeable and non-rechargeable battery capacity and specifications
Rechargeable batteries have a higher capacity than disposable batteries. For example, the capacity of rechargeable batteries may be between 1000 and 2500 mAh or more. This specification is written on the battery and can help you identify the type of battery. If your battery has a lower capacity (for example, less than 1000 mAh), it is probably a disposable battery.
Type of charger used to charge a pen battery
Rechargeable batteries require their own charger. This means that if you use a regular charger for rechargeable batteries, the battery will probably not charge properly or may be damaged. Therefore, if you are looking for a charger for your pen battery, you should pay attention to the type of battery (lithium-ion, nickel-metal hydride, etc.) and the compatibility of the charger with it.
Rechargeable batteries require the use of smart chargers that cut off the power supply after the battery is fully charged, preventing the battery from overheating and damaging it.
Important tips for choosing the right charger for a rechargeable battery
Battery Compatibility: Make sure your charger is compatible with the type of battery (AA or AAA) and its technology (NiMH or other types).
Charging Time: Choosing the right charger depends on the charging time and your needs. If you need it quickly, use a fast charger.
Number of Ports: If you need to charge multiple batteries at the same time, choose chargers with more ports.
Size and Weight: Chargers that are portable are more suitable for people who need to carry it easily.
Safety: Chargers that have protection against overcharging, short circuit or high temperatures are more reliable in terms of safety.
Best-selling battery charger models
Digital CFL Charger Model HA-805
This charger can charge AA, AAA and 9V batteries and has features such as automatic charging shutdown after 12 hours.
Automatic charger model HD-0688
This model is designed to charge 18650 batteries (18650 batteries are a type of rechargeable lithium-ion battery that is widely used in electronic devices due to its high capacity and standard size (18 mm diameter and 65 mm length).) and due to its circuit, it cuts off the current after charging is complete.
Bistoon charger model BST Pro code C819W
A multi-purpose charger that can charge pen, half-pen and book batteries simultaneously and has a control timer to prevent overcharging.
Jiabao charger model JB-212
This charger is suitable for nickel-cadmium batteries and has an LED indicator that shows the charging status.
Haman battery charger model CFL-105P
Suitable for charging all types of pen and half-pen batteries and has an LED indicator to display the status of the batteries.
Conclusion
Determining whether a pen battery is rechargeable or not requires paying attention to various details such as the written marks on the battery, the markings, the size and weight of the battery, the use of a battery tester, etc. Using these methods, you can easily distinguish between rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries. In addition to economic benefits, rechargeable pen batteries also help reduce electronic waste and protect the environment, so choosing them is recommended as a cost-effective option.
To buy quality batteries, EDC is an ideal choice. Due to the use of quality raw materials, EDC batteries have a longer lifespan and provide more stable performance for a variety of devices. These batteries are suitable for household, industrial and digital devices in various models, including alkaline and zinc, and in pen and semi-pen sizes. These batteries do not contain environmentally harmful substances and have a long expiration date. To purchase batteries and receive free advice, you can contact the EDC sales department.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an alkaline pen battery rechargeable?
No, alkaline pen batteries are non-rechargeable.
How can we tell by the appearance of the battery whether it is rechargeable or not?
Rechargeable pen batteries are slightly heavier than non-rechargeable batteries and may have terms such as “NiMH” or “Li-ion” written on their body. Rechargeable batteries are usually clearly indicated that they are rechargeable.
How do we know if a rechargeable pen battery is damaged or dead?
If a rechargeable pen battery discharges quickly or cannot provide power for a long time after a full charge, it may be damaged. In this case, you should replace the battery.
How to extend the life of a rechargeable pen battery?
To extend the life of a rechargeable pen battery, you should avoid overcharging it and store it in appropriate temperature conditions. It is always best not to discharge the battery before it is fully charged, and to charge it if the battery is not used for a long time.
