Saft, the world’s large designer and manufacturer of advanced technology batteries for industry, has made three important developments to reinforce the market leadership of its lithium manganese dioxide (Li-MnO2) primary cells for smart metering, alarms & security, oil & gas, medical, automotive telematics and general industrial applications. These include: the introduction of three new cells within the LM range; a significant boost in production capacity; consolidation of the Friwo-M range into Saft’s core brand.

Saft has developed its Li-MnO2 cells to provide critical power for industrial devices for a lifetime of up to 20 years, this generally exceeds the actual service life of the equipment which is a vital consideration as normally no design provision is made for battery replacement. The cells are specifically designed to meet the needs of industrial applications worldwide that require reliability, high power, high safety levels and a long life including ruggedized designs for demanding environments.

Lithium cells deliver high pulse capability
A key technical advantage of Saft Li-MnO2 cells is their high pulse capability, with a high voltage response even after long dormant periods, or when operating in cold conditions. The cells also offer unrivalled capacities, extremely low self discharge (less than one percent per year) and high quality cell construction compatible with a 20 year plus lifetime. An added advantage is their high level of safety, with specific designs being intrinsically safe and suitable for use in potentially explosive atmospheres.

LM cell range expanded and production capacity boosted
Saft has added three new cell variants to the existing range of LM cells – the LM17500 (A size), LM 26500 (C-size), LM 33600 (D-size). This extends its capacity to cover all requirements from 0.5 – 33 Ah (Amp-hours) to meet a broad range of customer applications.
To support the growth in demand for the LM range, Saft has made investments in its plant at Valdese in North Carolina, USA to create a high output automated manufacturing line capable of supporting increased needs. This ramp-up in production is scheduled for the second quarter of 2015.

Friwo cells rebranded with Saft M range
Starting early November 2014, Saft is bringing its Friwo M cells into its core brand. Cells manufactured in Büdingen, Germany that previously carried the Friwo trade name will now be known as ‘Saft M’ cells. The M range will remain focused on specialty designs for highly demanding applications. It includes the world’s only high-power primary lithium cells, certified according to ATEX/IECEx by an independent certification body, meaning that they are designed for safe and reliable high-power performance in potentially explosive atmospheres. Saft M cells have also proven their unique benefits in critical aerospace and defense applications.