Accutronics introduces smart batteries with 21700 cells

The new batteries, manufactured by Accutronics’ US-based partner Inspired Energy, are the first in their range to use the latest 21700 sized cells, offering longer runtimes than existing 18650 based models and includes their first 18V battery.

The new range of batteries consists of four products, with nominal voltages of 7.2, 10.8, 14.4 and 18.0V. All have a nominal capacity of 5.0Ah, which means energy ranges from 36Wh to 90Wh. New single and dual bay Inspired Energy chargers are also available, which accept the 21700 based batteries and are fully backwards compatible with the 18650 based models.

All four batteries feature an industry standard connector interface for power and SMBus communication and an LED state of charge indicator allows the user to quickly determine if their battery requires charging. All models have a tough plastic casing and meet the latest regulations for transport.

Traditionally, Inspired Energy batteries contain 18650 size cells. The main difference between 18650 and 21700 size cells is the physical size of the lithium-ion cell. An 18650 cell has a diameter of 18mm by a length of 65mm, while a 21700 is 21mm by 70mm.  

Neil Oliver, Technical Marketing Manager at Accutronics, said: “Accutronics has worked with Inspired Energy for almost 20 years. As with all Inspired Energy lithium-ion smart batteries, the four new additions have an energy rating below 100Wh, which avoids complex and costly shipping regulations.

“The introduction of an 18V battery into the range reflects the need for portable power in new motor driven applications, where the higher voltage offers improved efficiency. Furthermore, many power tools and other portable electronic equipment incorporate an 18V battery due to the excellent power to weight ratio, which makes handheld devices easier to use.”

“Like all of the new batteries that use 21700 cells, the 18V battery has an 8A discharge capability, which means that OEMs can really ramp up the power in a wide range of devices.  This is crucial in an age where devices continue to get more sophisticated and automated.  End users also have high expectations about the reliability of their devices and Inspired Energy’s new batteries can better meet these.”

Accutronics is the sole distributor for the Inspired Energy range of standard smart batteries, chargers and accessories. By providing a high-level technical support service, Accutronics can design an Inspired Energy battery into a new device with total confidence. Customisation of any standard battery is available with unique labelling, firmware, regulatory approval or application specific testing.