Saft (France), a manufacturer of specialized batteries for industrial and defense applications, is now offering its specialized LSH 20 HTS lithium-thionyl chloride (Li-SOCl2) cylindrical D-size cells to general customers. The high-drain/high-pulse cells, developed originally to resist vibration, shock, and temperature for space probes, are suitable for demanding oil and gas exploration monitoring applications, such as measurement-while-drilling and logging-while-drilling devices. They are also well suited for military applications with high vibration levels such as ejector seat beacons.
The LSH 20 HTS cell is a mechanically upgraded version of Saft's LSH HT cell, already capable of operating over temperatures from -60 °C to +120 °C. The latest version was developed originally for space applications to withstand the high levels of shock, vibration, and acceleration during launch and stage separation. The LSH 20 HTS battery packs have a nominal voltage of 3.6 V and a 12.0 Ah capacity (at 50 mA +70 °C and 2.0 V cut off). They can provide short-term pulse currents up to 4,000 mA and a maximum continuous current of 1,000 mA. It has a low self-discharge of less than three percent a year, when stored at +20 °C. The LSH 20 HTS cell can operate from -60 °C to +120 °C, and withstand 48-hour excursions up to +125 °C. The LSH 20 HTS can withstand axial vibration of 20 Grms (2 Hz to 100 Hz), radial vibration of 30 Grms (2 Hz to 100 Hz), 30 G peak (30 Hz to 2,000 Hz), and random 20 Grms (30 Hz to 1,000 Hz).
The LSH 20 HTS cells feature a power-optimized, spiral electrode construction, with a non-flammable electrolyte, contained within an hermetically sealed, stainless-steel container with a built-in safety vent. The LSH 20 HTS can be purchased as part of a pre-assembled, custom-built battery pack.
