AlphaCell Battery Line Helps Operators Power through Record-Setting Heat Wave

July 20, 2012 - PRLog -- In the wake of a record-setting heat wave that caused widespread power outages throughout North America, Alpha Technologies Inc. continues to provide the most versatile and dependable backup power solutions for a variety of applications.

The month of July has been especially challenging, as crops withered and roads buckled under unprecedented heat conditions. Missouri continued its 10-day streak of 100°F plus weather, while temperatures in Chicago surpassed 100°F for three consecutive days, tying the previous record set more than 100 years ago.

With extreme temperatures seemingly more and more prevalent, it is important to make sure critical communication networks are adequately prepared with dependable and hassle-free backup power equipment. Batteries play an especially important role in providing reliable backup power, and the AlphaCell HP and GXL GelCell Batteries are designed specifically for such extreme conditions.

“Heat is one of the most challenging forces to contend with when powering equipment,” said Jim Heidenreich, VP of Product Management at Alpha. “The AlphaCell HP and GXL batteries can accommodate a wide variety of operating conditions and provide uncompromising reliability in even the most demanding environments.”

Extreme heat is often accompanied by lightning strikes and temporary blackouts, where backup power is a necessity. The AlphaCell 4.0 HP battery has the highest capacity of any of specifically designed CATV battery line with up to 240 minutes of runtime at a 25AMP rating and provides an extended shelf life in higher temperature environments in comparison to its traditional VRLA counterparts. The AlphaCell HP offers a 6 month shelf life at 40°C and an 18 month shelf life at 25°C, whereas a traditional VRLA battery provides 1-2 months shelf life at 40°C. In addition to high-temp operating capabilities, the AlphaCell HP features a 100% out-of-box runtime capacity to promote hassle-free installations and uncompromising reliability from the start of operation.

Another heat-resistant option is the AlphaCell GXL GelCell Batteries.The GXL is commonly found in power systems throughout Latin America due to its ability to thrive in abnormally hot operating conditions. The GXL batteries use advanced gel technology to promote a higher heat dissipation rate compared to traditional batteries. A gel electrolyte surrounds the element to improve thermal contact between the element and case wall, acting as a thermal conduit for transferring heat out of the battery.

In addition to incorporating batteries with a longer shelf life and high heat dissipation rate, cable network operators also have the option of including Alpha’s Enclosure Cooling Fan (ECF) System. An ECF System can be installed to enhance air circulation in the enclosure’s battery compartment. The constant air flow eliminates “hotspot” premature battery failures in warm climates and significantly reduces the power supply compartment temperature. An ECF kit can be customized to fit most enclosure types.

For more information about Alpha’s high-temperature battery solutions or the ECF system, contact a local Alpha representative or visit www.alpha.com.

Alpha Technologies Inc., a member of The Alpha Group, provides the communications industry with the most reliable, technologically advanced and cost-effective powering solutions available. Alpha offers innovative powering solutions that are designed for the future; built to support expansion and provide unlimited opportunity. Widely used in cable television, communications and data networks worldwide, Alpha products have earned a reputation for reliability and performance. Alpha provides a full line of power products including: standby, non-standby and uninterruptible power supplies, surge suppressors, enclosures, batteries and powering accessories.

The Alpha Group represents a global alliance of independent companies that share a common philosophy – create world-class powering solutions for communication, commercial, industrial and renewable energy markets.