ER18505M Battery: Specifications, Applications, Performance Features, and Selection Guide

 The ER18505M battery is a high-energy, long-life primary lithium battery commonly used in industrial devices that require stable power output over many years. As a member of the ER (Li-SOCl₂, Lithium Thionyl Chloride) cylindrical battery series, the ER18505M model is known for its high energy density, wide operating temperature range, and excellent reliability in harsh environments. This article provides a complete overview to help buyers, engineers, and procurement managers understand its characteristics, applications, and selection factors.

What Is an ER18505M Battery?

The ER18505M battery is a Lithium Thionyl Chloride (Li-SOCl₂) primary cell with a nominal voltage of 3.6V and a cylindrical size close to A-size cells. The “M” designation typically refers to its modified structure, often including a bobbin-type design, enhanced safety features, or custom terminals based on application needs.

Key characteristics include:

• High energy density

• Long operating life (up to 10–15 years depending on load)

• Low self-discharge rate, typically less than 1% per year

• Excellent stability in long-term standby applications

Key Specifications of ER18505M Battery

Although specific values may vary by manufacturer, the ER18505M battery generally includes the following specifications:

• Chemistry: Li-SOCl₂

• Nominal Voltage: 3.6V

• Nominal Capacity: 3.0Ah to 4.0Ah (depending on design)

• Size: 18 × 50.5 mm (cylindrical)

• Operating Temperature: –55°C to +85°C or higher

• Continuous Discharge: Suitable for low-to-moderate current

• Pulse Discharge: Capable of supporting short, high-intensity pulses with capacitor pairing

• Shelf Life: Over 10 years

These characteristics make the ER18505M battery ideal for long-duration, maintenance-free devices.

Performance Features

1. Ultra-Long Service Life

The Li-SOCl₂ chemistry provides exceptionally low self-discharge, allowing the ER18505M battery to operate for years without replacement. This is essential in remote or embedded applications where access is limited.

2. Wide Operating Temperature Range

This battery remains stable in extreme heat or cold, making it suitable for outdoor, industrial, and military-grade environments.

3. High Energy Density

The ER18505M battery stores significantly more energy compared to alkaline or lithium-manganese batteries of similar size, enabling long-term operation in compact devices.

4. Reliable Performance in Low-Current Applications

Its bobbin structure supports low continuous current consumption, making it perfect for sensors and standby systems.

5. Safety and Stability

Many ER18505M variants include:

• Explosion-proof safety vent

• Stainless steel casing

• High-corrosion-resistant materials

These features ensure stable long-term operation.

Common Applications of ER18505M Battery

The ER18505M battery is widely used in markets that require long-lasting, maintenance-free power. Typical applications include:

Industrial IoT and Remote Monitoring

• Wireless sensors

• Data loggers

• Industrial transmitters

• Asset tracking devices

Utility and Smart Metering

• Gas meters

• Water meters

• Electricity meters

• AMR/AMI systems

Security and Emergency Systems

• Smoke detectors

• Alarm systems

• Access control systems

GPS and Tracking Equipment

• Vehicle tracking

• Cargo tracking

• Wildlife tracking devices

Oil & Gas and Harsh-Environment Equipment

• Pipeline monitoring

• Downhole tools

• Environmental monitoring stations

How to Choose an ER18505M Battery for Your Application

1. Identify Energy and Load Requirements

Determine your device’s:

• Continuous current consumption

• Pulse current demands

• Expected service life

• Standby vs. frequent activation

This ensures proper match with the ER18505M specifications.

2. Consider Temperature Conditions

If your device operates in extreme conditions, choose a variant rated for –55°C to +85°C or specialized high-temperature designs.

3. Evaluate Terminal and Connection Types

ER18505M batteries may use:

• Standard solder tags

• Axial leads

• PCB pins

• Customized connectors

Choose the model compatible with your device’s power design.

4. Assess Safety and Certifications

Check for:

• IEC standards compliance

• UN38.3 testing

• RoHS certification

• Quality-control documentation

These ensure reliability during long-term storage and operation.

5. Confirm Pulse Capability (If Needed)

If your device requires high pulse discharge (e.g., wireless transmission), consider pairing the battery with:

• Supercapacitors

• Hybrid Li-SOCl₂ structures

• High-pulse ER-series versions

Advantages of Using ER18505M Batteries in Industrial Applications

• Reduces maintenance frequency and cost

• Supports remote and hard-to-reach installations

• Ensures stable operation in extreme environments

• Provides long-term power without external charging

• Minimizes device downtime and field failures

Conclusion

The ER18505M battery is a high-performance Lithium Thionyl Chloride power solution designed for long-life, low-current industrial applications. Its excellent energy density, wide temperature tolerance, and proven reliability make it a preferred choice for IoT systems, smart meters, instrumentation, security devices, and outdoor monitoring equipment. By understanding its specifications, performance capabilities, and proper selection criteria, engineers and procurement teams can choose the most suitable ER18505M model to ensure consistent and long-term device operation.