This April, FDK CORPORATION starts the sample shipment of high-durability nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery HR-AATU for power backup markets. Particularly, this model is an upgrade of the high-durability nickel-metal hydride battery HR-AAULTU, which was released in Sept. 2018 and conforms to JIS C 8708 MU standard.

For over 33 years, FDK has been manufacturing and selling rechargeable nickel-metal hydride batteries for a variety of applications. Among them include security, in-vehicle applications, and medical devices.

Since then, the increase in current consumption and extension of backup time that accompanies higher performance of battery-powered devices have led to numerous requests for higher-capacity backup batteries. To meet those needs, FDK has thoroughly reviewed the materials and structures in existing nickel-metal hydride batteries. Accordingly, it increased the amount of active materials. This led to the successful development of the HR-AATU, which conforms to JIS C 8708 MU standard with increased battery capacity and achieves the industry’s longest life^(*2).

60% Higher Capacity

Specifically, HR-AATU features the same high durability as HR-AAULTU while achieving approximately 60% higher capacity. The longer life of the battery reduces the frequency of battery replacements, increasing convenience for customers. HR-AATU starts sample shipment this April, while mass production will commence Dec. 2024.

Additionally, HR-AATU has a cell designation IEC/JIS HR15/50. It has a nominal voltage of 1.2V and a nominal capacity of 1280mAh^(*3). It weighs approx. 28g including heat shrink tube, and has dimensions of 14.5mm (D) × 50.0mm (H).

Mainly, all FDK nickel-metal hydride batteries are made in FDK’s Japan domestic factory, which is ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 certified. Also, it complies with necessary environmental requirements such as RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive) and EU Battery Regulation (2023/1542).

FDK, as a Smart Energy Partner, will continue to provide customers with proposals for the efficient use of electric energy safely and efficiently with advanced technologies.

^*1: JIS C 8708 Sealed nickel-metal hydride rechargeable battery for portable equipment (single and battery) issued by the Japanese Standards Association.

^*2: Compliant with JIS C 8708 MU standard, as of April 2, 2024 (according to FDK’s investigation)

^*3: Typical capacity when a single cell is charged at 120mA for 16 hours and then discharged at 240mA to the end voltage of 1.00V

-12 April 2024-