A data center stores vast amounts of data. But what if a sudden blackout shuts down thousands of servers at once? Online services used by tens of thousands of people would be suspended, causing serious problems for both operators and users. As this example shows, an unexpected blackout can lead to massive losses, which is why a stable power supply must be ensured.
This is where battery-based Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) comes in. In this Battery Glossary, we will explore what a UPS is.
What Is UPS?
UPS is a device that provides power in emergencies. When electricity is unexpectedly cut off during a blackout, it supplies the necessary power until the power grid or a generator restores alternating current (AC) power.
Because of this characteristic, UPS systems are used in a wide range of areas. They are installed in facilities where a blackout could cause serious problems, such as semiconductor plants, data centers, hospitals, and energy storage systems (ESS). Smaller UPSs are used in offices, homes, and ATMs.
So, what are the critical features of UPS batteries? Since they must be able to supply stable power until AC power is restored during an emergency, the key requirements include output stability to maintain consistent voltage, safety to block risk factors, and backup duration to provide power for extended periods.
The Key to UPS: Lithium-Ion Batteries
Previously, UPS systems were mostly powered by lead-acid batteries or diesel engines. However, the former carries environmental risks because materials like sulfuric acid and lead pose hazards from manufacturing and operation to disposal, while the latter emits air pollutants. To overcome these shortcomings, lithium-ion batteries have been adopted for UPS systems.
Lithium-ion battery-based UPS systems are popular for several reasons.
First, lithium-ion batteries last longer than lead-acid batteries. While lead-acid battery-based UPSs require battery replacement about every seven years, lithium-ion battery-based UPSs last over 15 years, which means a lifespan more than twice as long.
Second, they provide excellent energy efficiency relative to space. Lithium-ion batteries have more than double the energy density of lead-acid batteries, allowing greater capacity in a smaller size. In addition, their output is about three times that of lead-acid batteries, enabling more devices to operate with the same capacity.
Another advantage is ease of management. Lithium-ion batteries are equipped with a Battery Management System (BMS), allowing real-time monitoring and systematic management of battery status without the need for manual inspection.
Lastly, lithium-ion batteries charge faster than lead-acid batteries, supporting rapid charging and discharging.
Where Do LG Energy Solution UPS Batteries Stand?
LG Energy Solution continues to develop UPS batteries by leveraging its advanced technological expertise. These batteries maximize backup power through high energy density and strong output performance, offering optimum features for UPS systems.
In addition, the company has integrated the power supply units with its UPS battery systems, enabling independent operation without external power and achieving both stability and operational efficiency. It has also adopted a transportable rack solution that enhances installation convenience. This allows racks equipped with UPS battery cells to be transported quickly and easily, significantly improving customer convenience.
In this way, lithium-ion battery-based UPS systems are increasingly replacing lead-acid batteries and diesel engines, delivering higher energy efficiency and longer lifespans. In our upcoming piece, we’ll continue to offer easy explanations of key battery terms!
