AA batteries have been around for quite a while. During this period, different naming systems have been used both by standard organizations and manufacturers. But what is an R6 AA battery?
The International Electronics Standards (IEC) uses R6 for the AA battery size and, depending on the chemistry, a letter before that. The common ones are R6 for zinc-carbon, LR6 for alkaline AA, and HR6 for NiMH AA. ANSI is another naming standard that uses 15LF for lithium AA, 15A for alkaline AA, and 15H for NiMH AA. Other names used for AA batteries include penlight, MN1500, and mignon.
In this article, we dig deep into the R6 AA batteries as we look at different aspects, including their chemistry, voltage, and capacity, among other things.
The IEC designation for AA batteries is R6. R6 AA batteries are the universal power source for most devices today. These batteries can be used in most low-precision electric devices. Due to their inadequate capacities, AA batteries won’t operate your devices for very long.
Some applications of the R6 AA batteries include clocks, remote controllers, LED flashlights, calculators, and kids’ toys.
What Is The Difference Between R6 And AA Batteries?
If you feel confused by these terms, you will be happy to learn that they all describe the same thing. The only existing difference is in the variations in the naming system. The AA battery is a standard-size, cylindrical, single-cell dry battery. According to the IEC 60086 naming system, this battery size R6 stands for “round” with “size code 6.”
Different technical standards classify cells and batteries. The IEC and ANSI/NEDA are two common standards. Technical standards are simply methods for the industry to ensure that its products are compatible with one another without the need for testing. Provided that the product matches the relevant technical standard, it is assumed that it works with anything else meant to work within the same standard.
R6 AA Batteries Dimensions and Features
- Size– Conventionally, AA batteries are cylindrical and feature physical dimensions of 14.5 x 50.5 mm (diameter x length), respectively. Even though many other labels are in use, the standard label is AA. This will always depend on the country, standard, chemistry, and the like. R6 AA batteries always differ in capacity, chemistry, voltage, and many other aspects.
- Voltage – The voltage of R6 AA batteries is expressed in volts, commonly denoted as volts (V). The voltage for R6 AA batteries will differ mainly depending on the battery chemistry. R6 AA batteries have a voltage ranging between 1.5V and 1.8V maximum, but can go up to 3.7V for lithium-ion batteries.
- Capacity – The capacity of R6 AA batteries will similarly depend on the battery’s chemistry and is normally expressed in milliampere-hours, denoted as (mAh). The capacity of R6 AA batteries ranges anywhere between 400mAh and 2800+mAh, which is quite a huge difference.
Types of AA Non-Rechargeable Batteries
The non-rechargeable AA batteries include alkaline, zinc carbon, NiOOH, and LiFeS2 batteries. Let us look at the most common non-rechargeable AA batteries in detail below:
- Alkaline AA batteries – These are the standard AA batteries based on the reaction between manganese dioxide and zinc metal. The nominal voltage for such batteries is 1.5V, with the battery capacity ranging between 1800 and 2700 mAh. Compared with zinc batteries, alkaline batteries have a higher capacity and a longer shelf life, despite having the same voltage.
- Zinc-carbon batteries – This is the old version of batteries with a voltage of 1.5V and a capacity ranging between 600 and 1600mAh. The capacity of these batteries depends on the battery design and intended battery use. Since zinc batteries have a relatively lower capacity, they are being replaced by alkaline batteries.
- LiFeS2 batteries – This is another non-rechargeable type of AA battery. In high-drain applications, its voltage is 1.5V, and 1.8V is the open-circuit voltage. The typical capacity range for these batteries is 2700 to 3300mAh. One outstanding feature of these batteries is their long shelf life of up to 20 years, making them ideal for backup systems.
- NiOOH batteries – This is a version of alkaline batteries made from the addition of nickel oxyhydroxide to graphite and manganese dioxide. This generates a typical voltage range of 1.5V and 1.7V. The capacity of NiOOH batteries is similar to that of alkaline batteries. These batteries often find use in devices such as cameras.
FAQs
Are R6 and LR6 batteries the same?
These two batteries are interchangeable. The only difference is that they have different chemistries and that the latter are cheaper and do not last as long.
What is the difference between AA and AAA batteries?
The difference is in their dimensions; the AAA batteries are relatively smaller. With their large capacity, AA batteries have stronger currents.
What AA battery type is the best?
This will be determined by the device that you are powering. In most cases, lithium-ion rechargeable AA batteries are the best choice, considering their quality performance.
Conclusion
R6 AA batteries are a staple in daily life, as people purchase them despite their short-term use. It is, however, important to learn about the differences between in these batteries. Several aspects set them apart, including battery chemistry, shelf life, and voltages. Having discussed the different types, we believe you know what to settle for.
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James is an engineer and a professional blogger. He has gained extensive experience over the years, handling all types of power projects. He loves to share his experiences with all things related to batteries, generators, and other power-related topics.
