D Cell Batteries - Features, Specifications, Comparisons and Equivalents

D-cell batteries, introduced in 1898, have found widespread use in high-drain devices such as flashlights, toys, radios, and medical equipment. Known under various names, including MN1300, MX1300, and LR20, these batteries are noted for parameters like nominal voltage, capacity, discharge current, and self-discharge rate. The chemical compositions include zinc-carbon, alkaline, lithium thionyl chloride, nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal hydride, and several lithium-ion chemistries. The dimensions range from 34.2 to 61.5 millimeters, while F-cells measure 33.0 x 91.0 mm and are larger but less common.

Catalog

Characteristics and Specifications of D-Cell Batteries

D-cell batteries, influenced by their chemical properties, exhibit unique discharge profiles, such as nominal voltage, capacity, discharge current, and self-discharge rates.

The most prevalent chemistries are:

• Non-rechargeable zinc-carbon
• Alkaline
• Lithium thionyl chloride
• Rechargeable nickel-cadmium (NiCd)
• Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH)
• Various lithium-ion chemistries

Zinc-carbon batteries generally offer capacities around 6-8Ah. Alkaline batteries usually range from 12-18Ah but can exceed 20Ah at low discharge currents. These differences in capacity raise an intriguing question: why do some chemistries deliver higher capacities than others?

Lithium thionyl chloride batteries, which operate at 3.6V and have capacities up to 18-19Ah, serve well in low-current applications like memory backup due to their limited current capability. This specific application usage invites an exploration into how ideal battery chemistries are chosen for different functions.

Rechargeable D-cell batteries present diverse advantages and disadvantages:

• NiCd batteries are inexpensive but contain cadmium, which is environmentally harmful, and suffer from memory effect. If not fully discharged before recharging, their efficiency diminishes.
• NiMH batteries provide higher capacities (8-12Ah), lack heavy metals, and exhibit a low self-discharge rate. They endure 1000-1200 charge-discharge cycles.
• Modern lithium-ion D-cell batteries offer an internal voltage of 3.2-3.7V, adaptable to 1.5V devices via a DC-DC converter. They feature capacities from 3-6Ah and support 1000-2000+ charge-discharge cycles. Their high reliability caters to prolonged use.

Chemistry	Typical Label	Typical Label	Typical Capacity (Ah)	Nominal Voltage (V)
Zinc-Carbon	R20, 13D	No	6-8	1.5
Alkaline	LR20, 13A	No (Mostly No)	10-18	1.5
NiCd	KR20	Yes	2-6	1.2
NiMH	HR20, B006	Yes	8-12	1.2
Li-SOCl2	ER 34615	No	18-19	3.6
Li-FeS2	-	No	18-24	1.8（1.5）
Lithium	-	Yes	4-8	1.5 (built-in DC-DC converter)
Lithium	32600	Yes	5-10	3.2-3.7V

In practical applications, the preferences vary:

• Alkaline batteries are favored in high-drain devices due to their high energy density and extended shelf life.
• NiMH batteries are adaptable for frequent recharges and long life span, thriving in handheld devices and portable electronics.

The advent of lithium-ion technology has revolutionized rechargeable D-cell use in advanced applications like medical devices and high-performance flashlights.

Non-Rechargeable D Batteries

Non-rechargeable D batteries come in various types: zinc-carbon, alkaline, and lithium thionyl chloride (Li-SOCl2) batteries. Each type possesses distinct characteristics making it suitable for specific applications.

Zinc-carbon batteries typically offer:

• A capacity of about 6-8Ah
• A voltage of 1.5V
• A lifespan ranging from 3 to 5 years

However, these batteries are prone to leakage, which can damage the devices they power. This leakage issue raises a critical question: Why haven't manufacturers solved this prevalent problem? Despite their tendency to leak, zinc-carbon batteries remain an affordable option for low-drain devices like flashlights and clocks. Users often favor these batteries in scenarios where cost is a major factor, and the leakage risk can be managed.

Alkaline batteries, in contrast, boast:

• Capacities ranging from 12-18Ah
• A lifespan of 5 to 10 years

These batteries are the most popular type due to their reliability and extended life. They are commonly found in household devices with higher energy demands, such as radios and remote-control toys. Interestingly, their longer lifespan and higher capacity make alkaline batteries a cost-effective choice over time, outweighing their higher initial cost. Market surveys and retail trends reveal consumer preferences supporting this perspective.

Lithium thionyl chloride (Li-SOCl2) batteries provide:

• A higher voltage of 3.6V
• A capacity of 18-19Ah
• A lifespan spanning from 10 to 20 years

Though they have limited current capability, these batteries are ideal backup power sources for electronic devices requiring long-term reliability, such as data loggers and security systems. Their role in critical applications, where battery replacement is either difficult or impractical, such as utility meters and medical devices, underscores their significance. This type of battery compels us to ponder: could there be even longer-lasting alternatives in the future?

Rechargeable D-Cell Batteries

Rechargeable D-cell batteries primarily include Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd), Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH), and Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries.

Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd) Batteries:

• Capacity: 2-6Ah
• Cost-effective

Take, for example, the disposal of NiCd batteries: releasing cadmium into soil and water not only impacts ecological systems but also poses significant risks to human health. One might ask, what are the specific mechanics behind this pollution? Cadmium can leach into groundwater, causing contamination that is difficult to remediate.

Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) Batteries:

• Capacity: 8-12Ah
• Free of polluting heavy metals, leading to reduced environmental impact
• Lower self-discharge rate
• Endurance: Over 1000 charge-discharge cycles

Why are NiMH batteries preferred in many applications demanding higher capacity and environmental friendliness? Their widespread use in modern portable electronics and household devices exemplifies their utility and safety, offering a sustainable alternative to NiCd batteries.

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) Batteries:

• Internal Voltage: 3.2-3.7V
• Capacity: 3-6Ah
• Utilizes DC-DC converters for compatibility with 1.5V devices
• Endurance: 1000-2000 charge-discharge cycles

The intriguing aspect of lithium batteries lies in their high energy density and lightweight nature. This makes them suitable for everyday tools as well as high-demand applications like emergency power supplies and high-drain devices. Their versatility and efficiency in these varied scenarios highlight the growing preference for lithium batteries in today's technology landscape.

D-Cell (LR20, MN1300) Battery Comparison Chart

Different D-cell batteries exhibit varying performance characteristics in terms of discharge current, temperature range, and lifespan. Users can select the appropriate battery type based on their specific requirements.

The following comparison chart lists some of the most popular D-cell batteries on the market, with their features and specifications:

Battery Datasheet	Capacity	Operating Temperature	Note
Duracell MN1300 Coppertop (Alkaline)	~12.5Ah down to 0.8V @250mA ~9.5Ah down to 0.8V @500mA	-20°C to +54°C	-
Duracell QU1300 Quantum (Alkaline)	~11.5Ah down to 0.8V @250mA ~9Ah down to 0.8V @500 mA	-20°C to +54°C	-
Energizer E95 (Alkaline)	~11.5Ah down to 0.8V @250mA ~9Ah down to 0.8V @500 mA	-18°C to +55°C	10-year shelf life @21°C
~10Ah down to 0.8V @21°C @250mA ~6.5Ah down to 0.8V @21°C @500mA	2500mAh down to 1.0V @500mA @21°C	-	-
Eveready 1250 (ZnMnO2)	8Ah @25mA down to 0.8V @21°C	-18°C to +55°C	-
EEMB ER34615 (Lithium Thionyl Chloride 3.6V)	19Ah	-55°C to +85°C	150 mA max. cont. 300mA max. 0.1s pulse ≤1% annual self-discharge rate
EEMB ER34615M (Lithium Thionyl Chloride 3.6V)	13Ah	-55°C to +85°C	2A max. cont. 3A max. 0.5s pulse ≤2% annual self-discharge rate
EEMB ER34615S (Lithium Thionyl Chloride 3.6V)	12.5Ah	-20°C to +150°C	170mA max. cont. ≤1% annual self-discharge rate
EEMB CR34615SL (LiMnO2)	12Ah	-40°C to +85°C	2A max. cont. 3A max. pulse ≤1% annual self-discharge rate
Procell LR20 (Alkaline)	~19.6Ah @25mA down to 0.8V @20°C	-20°C to +54°C	-
Rayovac LR20 High Energy (Alkaline)	~13Ah @250mA ~10Ah @600mA	-30°C to +55°C	10-year shelf life @21°C
Rayovac LR20 (Alkaline)	~13Ah @250mA ~10Ah @600mA	-30°C to +55°C	-
Rayovac LR20 Alkaline Fusion (Alkaline)	~13.5Ah @250mA ~10Ah @600mA	-30°C to +55°C	12-year shelf life @21°C
Rayovac LR20 UltraPro (Alkaline)	-	-18°C to +55°C	10-year shelf life @21°C
Rayovac R20 (ZnMnO2)	~3.5Ah @600mA	-18°C to +55°C	3-year shelf life @21°C
Rayovac R20 (ZnMnO2)	-	-30°C to +55°C	3-year shelf life @21°C

AA Batteries vs. D-Cell Batteries

AA batteries (14.5 x 50.5 mm) are smaller in size compared to D-cell batteries (34.2 x 61.5 mm), and thus, they have a relatively lower capacity. Alkaline AA batteries typically range from 1.8 to 2.7Ah, whereas D-cell batteries range from 10 to 18Ah. However, AA batteries can be connected in parallel using adapters to replace D-cell batteries. It is crucial to use AA batteries of the exact same model when using such adapters to prevent battery imbalance, which can affect performance and safety.

Under what circumstances should one choose AA over D-cell batteries? In light of the above comparison, non-rechargeable D-cell batteries are generally recommended in their alkaline form due to their optimal balance of performance and price. For rechargeable D-cell batteries, nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) types are favored for their ease of use and extended lifespan. Additionally, 1.5V lithium D-cell batteries are gaining popularity due to their stable voltage and rechargeable features.

From practical experience, users should be mindful of the application for which the batteries are intended. For instance, high-drain devices such as flashlights or portable radios may benefit more from the higher capacity of D-cell batteries. On the other hand, devices with lower power demands might be more efficiently served by AA batteries with the use of adapters. This balance between performance, convenience, and cost is pivotal in making the right battery choice.

Taking a closer look at the rechargeable options, NiMH D-cell batteries stand out not only for their long cycle life but also for their reduced environmental impact compared to disposable batteries. Industry practitioners have noted that these batteries often exhibit consistent performance over multiple recharge cycles, which can translate to long-term cost savings despite a higher upfront investment. Would it then be wise to invest in rechargeable batteries for long-term applications? The answer frequently leans towards sustainability and economic efficiency.

Furthermore, lithium 1.5V D-cell batteries, with their stable voltage output, are particularly advantageous in sensitive electronic devices where even slight voltage fluctuations can affect performance. These batteries also possess a lower self-discharge rate, meaning they hold their charge longer when not in use, making them suitable for emergency devices or intermittent usage scenarios.