Storing Batteries - Our Top Tips
Depending on your specific needs, you may not use your batteries on a daily basis. In which case, the issue of how best to store them becomes very important.
So what exactly is the best way to effectively store your batteries? The answer really depends on the product’s type, or chemistry.
The recommended temperature to store most battery types at, is around 15°C.
At extreme temperatures, they can be stored at a minimum of -40°C, and a maximum of 50°C. There are more important considerations other than just temperature however.
For example, lead acid batteries should always be kept fully charged during storage. But nickel and lithium based chemistries should be stored at around 40% of their maximum capacities. This is in order to reduce any potential capacity loss, while still ensuing the battery runs optimally.
Bear the following points in mind when storing batteries for any length of time:
• Before storing your batteries, remove them from any equipment they might be attached to, and ensure they’re placed in a cool, dry area.
• Make sure they’re not likely to freeze over. Remember that they will freeze more easily if they’ve been drained.
• Lead acid batteries should be charged before storing, and you should regularly check their charge levels.
• Nickel batteries can be safely stored for up to five years with no charge in them if necessary.
• Lithium-ion batteries should be stored at around 40% capacity.
• Remember to keep all battery products out of reach of children.
For additional tips on battery storage, or for advice on purchasing new batteries, don’t hesitate to ask the team here at Ivanhoe.
With over 15 years of direct experience with battery power, our knowledgeable team is happy to help you make an informed decision.
You can get in touch with us directly on 0845 555 5511, or message us via the contact page. For more information on any of our products, please download one of our brochures.
Advantages of Lead Crystal Batteries
Those of you who’ve shopped online for batteries before, are probably familiar with AGM, Gel and small-cell batteries. But you may not have come across Lead Crystal Batteries as possible power solutions.
But what exactly are lead crystal batteries, and what makes them worth considering for your application?
There are a number of great benefits to these power sources, which make them an excellent choice in a number of situations. As a result, they’re commonly used today in telecommunications, wind and solar power, healthcare, manufacturing and electric vehicles.
Firstly, they can be charged faster than most conventional batteries and be safely discharged to 0 volts without being put under stress. They can also be discharged more often and will comfortably operate between extreme temperatures of -40 to 65 C (making them great for regular use in harsh environments.) And incredibly, they require no extra ventilation or cooling to operate under these conditions.
They’re also much safer than many other battery types in both their day-to-day use and in the long term. As they use less acid and no cadmium or antimony, this reduces the risk of harmful leakage, and they’re up to 99% recyclable depending on the make and model.
This reduced risk even results in lead crystal batteries being classified as non-hazardous for transport, reducing potential issues that might arise when travelling internationally.
The batteries’ overall resilience means they boast a float service life of up to 18 years and can be stored for up to two years without needing to be refreshed or recharged.
If you’re unsure if lead crystal battery power is right for your product or application, don’t hesitate to ask the team here at Ivanhoe. With over 15 years of direct experience with battery power, our knowledgeable staff are happy to help you make an informed decision.
You can get in touch with us directly on 0845 555 5511, or message us via the contact page. For more information on our products, including charging accessories, you can download one of our brochures here.
Choosing the right tyres
A good mobility scooter can only perform at its best if it’s using quality parts; and here at Ivanhoe we’ve talked a lot about quality batteries lately. Equally important however, is a good choice of tyre.
But how do you choose the right tyre for your scooter?
First and foremost, they need to be the right size. There’s a huge volume of tyre sizes out there for various types of scooter, and the wrong size either simply won’t fit, or could be dangerous to ride on.
The easy way to tell what size you need is by taking a quick look at the sides of your existing tyres. Typically, the tyre dimensions will be embossed on here, or may be located on the inside of the tyre itself. Make a note of these dimensions and you should be able to spot the same sizes in a supplier catalogue or online store.
Do bear in mind that some models of scooters use different sized tyres on the front end, to those on the back.
Once you’ve got a handle on what size you need, you’ll likely come across a choice between solid tyres, or air filled/pneumatic ones.
Which of these you choose, tends to come down to personal preference.
Air-filled tyres have the advantage for comfort, as they absorb impacts and make for a less bumpy ride.
They are more prone to puncture however, and must be kept at a consistent pressure. So generally speaking, they require a higher level of maintenance.
Soild tyres on the other hand, cannot be punctured, and can’t deflate, as there’s no air inside to escape. This does make them excellent low-maintenance choices, but at the cost of a potentially more comfortable ride.
Here at Ivanhoe, all of our tyres (regardless of type) are carefully sourced to ensure they meet the highest quality control standards. Only products that demonstrate a proven, high level of performance and integrity, become part of our range of mobility products.
For additional advice on choosing mobility scooter tyres, don’t hesitate to ask the helpful team here at Ivanhoe. Our knowledgeable team is happy to answer any questions and assist you make an informed decision.
You can get in touch with us directly on 0845 555 5511, or message us via the contact page. For more information on any of our products, please download one of our brochures.
GEL Batteries – Continuing to Innovate
It’s sometimes strange to think that products as everyday as batteries could still be being innovated and improved upon. But ever since their conception in the 1800’s, battery technologies have evolved tremendously, and are continuing to do so.
Here at Strident, we’re always working on our battery technology in order to deliver the finest service and greatest reliability to our customers.
One of our most popular types of product is our line of GEL batteries, as these are used in a variety of applications - from mobility scooters to life critical support units.
So how are Strident GEL batteries innovating, and making themselves attractive alternatives to conventional sealed lead-acid technology?
- The Strident range of GEL batteries is designed to resist deep discharges and recovery after heavy usage, even when they’re not recharged immediately
- They provide excellent performance over long discharges
- They boast outstanding tolerance to higher temperature applications (-25 - +55C)
- Their limiting design protects the positive plates to greatly improve their cycle life
- They can be discharged even when full recharge has not been achieved, without loss of battery capacity
- They use thicker plates for reduced grid corrosion and increased cycle life
- They also boast an extended shelf life, and are designed to last for over ten years
Our GEL batteries are even tried and tested in rugged environments, in order gauge their performance in extreme circumstances.
Here at Strident, these are just one of the product types we’re continuing to improve every day.
If you think GEL batteries might be the perfect choice for your application, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the team here at Strident. With over 15 years of direct experience with battery power, our knowledgeable staff are happy to help you make an informed decision.
You can get in touch with us directly on 0845 555 5511, or message us via the contact page. For more information on our products, including our selection of innovative battery types, you can download one of our brochures here.
New High Performing Gel Batteries launched at Trade Days exhibition
Strident entered the Trade Days show with a larger stand pace and once again as the main show sponsor. With an elevated presence, Strident was well positioned to launch its range of high performing Gel batteries.
With the addition of a very large replica battery along with other innovative ideas, Strident attracted a large amount of interest from both existing clients and prospect who all saw the true value in the brand.
The 2015 show brought us a vast number of leads, and it connected us to companies who believe in our products and who saw value in our leading level of service.
We trust that you had the opportunity to visit our stand and discover what it’s like to work with an industry leading company. Should you have any queries, please call on 44 (0)1362 300102 or email the Sales Team at Strident.
Which? Publish Their Latest Best Buy Guide to Mobility Scooters
If you are currently exploring the purchase of a new mobility scooter or looking at a replacement or upgrade, take a look at Which?’s latest best buy guide.
Like many of their excellent reports, they point out that it is not always the most expensive mobility scooter that gets the top ratings from experts and consumers.
Experts and Users involved
For this new review, Which? has had an independent expert panel of ergonomists, occupational therapists and disabled scooter users test a series of mobility scooters. The panel has tried to include everything you would be likely to do with the scooter in real life use whether that is moving around obstacles or getting up slopes. In particular, they have been looking at:
- Ride quality
- How easy a scooter is to fold or dismantle
This reflects the frequent challenge to get the balance right between these 2 essential elements of scooter use – weight and comfort. In the tests, they have including the process and effort involved in getting scooters in and out of cars.
Considerations when comparing Mobility Scooters
They have also rated some of the other key considerations that relate to the purchase and use of Scooters.
- Preparing to ride. Which? has looked at how you can adjust parts of the scooter (e.g. seat, armrests etc.) to make the scooter as comfortable and supportive as possible.
- Setting off. How easy is it to start the scooter and pull away safely and with the least amount of fuss
- Indoor riding. How manoeuvrable are the scooters indoors
- Outdoor riding. Can the scooters cope with slopes, rough surfaces and kerbs
- How easy it is to pull the scooter along when not in use
Strident offers support for all brands of Mobility Scooters
Whichever mobility scooter you end up with, the battery, the charging process and tyre maintenance will be key elements of long-term ownership. Strident are leaders in Mobility Scooter batteries, chargers and tyres.
Strident’s battery technology combines performance with dependability and we can answer any questions you have regarding the replacement or upgrading of a battery on your mobility scooter.
We also carry an extensive range of battery chargers and specialist mobility scooter tyres in our ‘Traction’ catalogue.
Mobility and Medical - the Best Battery Types
At Strident, we specialise in batteries for a range of applications in the medical market.
From mobility scooters to power chairs and life-critical support, it’s essential that we supply the right type of battery to meet our customer’s specific needs. So what’s the best type of battery to use with these devices, and why?
Most devices like these rely on either AGM (absorbent glass mat) or GEL batteries. The chief benefit of these battery types is that they’re sealed, and therefore unlike some older types of lead acid batteries, are maintenance free and won’t spill or leak when installed under normal operating conditions.
As well as being very low maintenance, these battery types are also ideal for repeat cycling and daily use. Which in the context of mobility devices, is an absolute must. Furthermore, their limiting design results in a much longer cycle life than conventional lead acid equivalents.
Between the two, AGM batteries tend to be cheaper than their equivalent power GEL types. However, GEL batteries boast a greater expected lifespan. As a general rule though, you should always use the battery technology that’s recommended by the manufacturer for your mobility device. Some manufacturers even offer upgrade packages to enable differing technologies to be used.
If you’re unsure as to what the best battery types are for your product or application, get in touch with the knowledgeable team here at Strident.
With over 15 years of direct experience with battery power, our expert staff are happy to help you make an informed decision.
You can get in touch with us directly on 01326 300 102, or message us via the contact page. For more information on our products, including charging accessories, you can download one of our brochures, here.
Strident at Trade Days 2016
Later this month on the 25th and 26th of September, the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham proudly plays host to ‘Trade Days 2016.’
This dedicated trade-only event is free to attend, and is the ultimate UK exhibition for anyone involved in the manufacture, supply and retail of homecare, independent living and assistive technology products.
If you’re interested in attending, there are still tickets available. You can secure your place at the show through the link here.
As with previous years, our team will be available for you to reach out to and discuss your exact requirements, answer any questions you may have, and further enhance every connection we have within the medical market.
Trade Days 2016 is a fantastic opportunity to present to you the innovations we’ve been working on in recent months. Innovation together with constant research and development enables us to bring to you a range that’s designed and manufactured with the discerning buyer in mind.
Through constantly challenging the status quo, Strident energises the marketplace and inspires those around us by providing a cutting edge experience
We’ll be available to chat on both days of the show, so please do come and visit us at stand TH135.
2016 is a year to remember for Strident and we want to make it a year for you to remember too – if you are unable to join us in the excitement at Trade Days this year, please contact us on +44 (0)1362 300102, email us at sales@strident.uk.com or reach us via our contact page, and we will arrange an inspiring presentation for you at a location and time that is convenient to you.
For more information on our products, including batteries, charging accessories, and tyres, you can download one of our brochures, here.
Testing Mobility Scooter Batteries – Pre-Holiday Checks
For most of us, preparing to go on holiday can be a stressful experience.
Between sorting accommodation, packing clothes and finding travel documents; there are plenty of potential headaches to contend with. But testing the batteries on your mobility scooter needn’t be one of them.
Ensuring they’re in top condition before the trip should be an essential check on your pre-holiday to-do list. It’s a quick and simple process and one that could prevent a tricky situation while you’re away.
Testing Mobility Scooter Batteries - Your Quick Guide
Your scooter’s battery indicator can be a helpful tool for checking more than just its current charge level. Typically, these take the form of a set of LEDs or a needle indicator, and will vary in location depending on your scooter’s model.
With the batteries fully charged, press or push the levers that make the scooter run. If the indicators decrease immediately, this could mean your batteries are weak and in need of replacement.
Another method for checking is to drive your scooter up a gradient equal to around 75% of its capability. Take a look at the indicator’s level as you begin to move up the slope. If it drops from full to around the halfway mark (or lower), this is another indication that the batteries may need replacing.
If everything’s in working order, then great! Your batteries are ready for the trip. The next essential check on your list should be the battery charger.
Testing your battery charger
Firstly, you’ll need to know your scooter’s maximum drive distance, which can be found its manual.
Plug your charger in overnight, and the following day, take your scooter for a ride. Drive until the scooter’s drained and make a note of your travelled distance. Now charge the batteries again overnight and repeat. So long as you reach approximately the same distance each day, then you know the charger is working effectively. If you find that you’ve not been able to go as far from one day to the next, the charger may be faulty and in need of replacement.
If you suspect a fault but aren’t certain, we’d recommend getting in touch with your nearest mobility retailer, where they can offer professional testing.
If there are no issues with either your batteries or charger, you should be good to go. Bringing spares is always a sensible idea (especially for longer trips.) And remember that if you’re flying abroad, you’ll need to notify your airline of the equipment you're travelling with ahead of time.
If you need any extra help with testing mobility scooter batteries, or are in need of new ones, you can get in touch with the experts here at Ivanhoe.
With over 15 years of direct experience with battery power, our knowledgeable team is happy to assist in choosing a reliable, long-lasting product.
You can call us directly on 0845 555 5511, or get in touch via the contact page.
From Ivanhoe to Strident
Last month, the team here at Strident enjoyed a highly successful exhibition at ‘Trade Days’ in Birmingham’s NEC.
In fact, the show was our first public event since rebranding from Ivanhoe to Strident earlier in the year; and presented a great opportunity to introduce customers to a new, professional trading experience.
When Ivanhoe was established in Doncaster back in 2002, we chose the name because of the area’s historic reputation for distinctive leadership in battle. It was a name that embodied power and strategy at every move.
With such a prestigious name on which to build, Ivanhoe successfully grew and expanded, but it was six years later (in 2008) when we introduced the Strident brand to the market. Our premier line of products deserved a title worthy of their innovation and quality, so Strident was chosen to represent the product’s powerful nature and reliability in the very toughest of environments.
True to its name, the Strident brand gained tremendous respect in marketplace, allowing the company to relocate to new, larger offices in Doncaster. Its unprecedented success resulted in the name’s international recognition, and subsequently, it made sense to rebrand Ivanhoe. In doing this, we could build on the success of our Strident products even further. So in July of this year, that’s exactly what we did.
This exciting move forward is the result of 15 years of continual improvement, and today, we continue our commitment to providing excellent products with unrivalled customer service.
In reintroducing ourselves to the market as Strident at Trade Days, we consider our public rebranding complete, and will continue supplying innovative, ground-breaking products to the medical sector.2016 has been a year to remember for us at Strident so far, and we want to make it a year for you to remember too. The team here are true experts in the field, and are always happy to help with any enquiries you might have.
2016 has been a year to remember for us at Strident so far, and we want to make it a year for you to remember too. The team here are true experts in the field, and are always happy to help with any enquiries you might have.
You can contact us by phone on +44 (0)1362 300102, email us at sales@strident.uk.com, or reach us via our contact page, and we can arrange an inspiring presentation at a location and time that’s convenient to you.
For more information on our products, including batteries, charging accessories, and tyres, you can download one of our brochures, here.