Bought the inverter to have a peaceful sleep during power outages of summer? Alas, the device didn’t let you have peace of mind. The problem doesn’t lie in the inverter, but in the battery choice. There are different types of batteries with varying suitability. Choosing the best fit for your requirements can be overwhelming.
Other than relying on the seller, you have the weapon of knowledge to make a decision. To arm you with the same, we offer detailed insights and a comparison of tubular battery vs flat plate battery. Scroll now to learn about these two types of batteries and find the opportunity to select from the best of both worlds.
Understanding Inverter Batteries
Before going forward to flat plate battery vs tubular battery, let’s first understand the inverter battery. Batteries in an inverter are an important component that store the power to provide the same during electricity outages. The used-up power can be replenished when the main power is back. The batteries store power as per the rated capacity, which determines the amount of time the inverter can sustain during the power cuts.
There are different types of batteries, including lead-acid batteries. The latter is further categorised as follows:
- Flat plate lead-acid batteries: These are reliable and affordable. They comprise plates of lead and lead dioxide present in sulfuric acid.
- Tubular batteries: These are the type of lead battery comprising thicker plates. They exhibit higher efficiency and durability, making them suitable for heavy-duty applications.
- Valve Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA) batteries: These are also known as maintenance-free batteries. They are sealed, do not require maintenance and are safe to use.
Understanding Flat Plate Batteries
The name of these batteries justifies their design. These batteries have flat plate electrodes at both positive and negative electrodes. These batteries are well-suited for areas experiencing frequent power outages and small homes. They are also affordable and come with a lifespan of one to three years. These batteries aren’t designed to meet the needs of heavy-duty equipment. They exhibit rapid charging due to the appropriate battery design, structure and metal composition. Flat plate batteries also offer a sleek and modern appearance, thus consuming less space.
Applications of Flat Batteries
The flat batteries are well-suited to be used in the following locations:
- To power residential and low-scale commercial places for a short duration
- To provide power for portable devices requiring battery power
- For powering the engine and to offer auxiliary power to automotive and marine equipment
- To power alarm systems and emergency lighting during power outages
Understanding Tubular Batteries
These types of batteries are designed such that positive electrodes are tubular in structure, while negative electrodes are flat plate type. They are capable of meeting the needs of long and less frequent power cuts. Hence, they are available at a comparatively higher budget range. The tubular batteries are capable of serving the functions for at least four to six years. They fulfill heavy-duty device power requirements and offer long backup times. These are also space-efficient and low-maintenance.
Applications of Tubular Batteries
The tubular batteries are well-suited to be used in the following locations:
- To run equipment like computers, fans, TV, lights and such appliances at home and offices
- To keep running the power plants
- To power solar power systems for providing power at night or on non-sunny days
- For telecommunication networks
Difference Between Tubular and Flat Battery
Considering tubular battery vs flat plate battery, here are the differentiating points between the two:
| Parameter | Tubular Battery | Flat Battery |
| Charge cycles | Generally, 800 to 1400 cycles at similar Depth of Discharge | Generally, 50 to 1000 cycles at 80% Depth of Discharge |
| Float current | Low self-discharge rate | Comparatively high self-discharge rate |
| Thermal management | Thermally efficient | Comparatively less thermally efficient |
| Cost | Higher cost | Budget friendly |
| Use | Suited for long and less frequent power cuts | Suited for frequent and short-duration power cuts |
| Charging time | Longer with high capacity | Shorter with low capacity |
| Lifespan | Long | Short |
| Heavy load performance | Excellent | Poor |
| Water consumption | Low | High |
| Environmental impact | More environmentally friendly | Less environmentally friendly |
| Maintenance | Less needed | More needed |
| Electrical resistance | Less | Comparatively high |
| Value for money | Best fit for long-term investment | Cost-effective for less demanding applications |
| Energy efficiency | High efficiency for long usage | Moderately efficient during less common usage |
Get the Combined Power of Battery at LivFast
With flat plate vs tubular battery suited for distinct needs, are you wondering which aspect to compromise on? But why limit yourself when you can opt for the combined power? At LivFast, our batteries are built with tall, short, and short tubular jumbo along with flat plate technologies. It makes our battery loaded with key features to meet your needs. These features are:
- 25% higher backup
- 25% longer life
- Deep discharge cycle
- High performance
- Low-maintenance design
- Long warranty
Wrapping Up
Among the lead acid batteries for your inverter, the challenge generally lies in choosing between a flat plate vs a tubular battery. While flat plates are economical and suitable for areas with frequent and short power cuts, the tubular batteries are best suited for contrasting environments. However, you have the option to choose the benefits of both. At LivFast, our batteries are designed to last longer with fast backup. These are created by tubular and flat plate technologies at affordable prices. Explore the available variety now!