CR1632 Batteries: What You Need To Know Before Buying This Coin Cell

Factors Affecting How Long The Lithium Coin Battery Lasts

The battery life varies depending on whether the battery is in storage or is in use powering a device.

When in Storage

When stored in optimal conditions, this coin battery has a shelf life of approximately 10 years. Given that they have a discharge rate of 1% per year when stored correctly, they’ll be at 90% capacity after 10 years in storage.

To attain this shelf life, they should be stored in their original packaging. Other optimum storage conditions are a temperature range of between -20℃ and 60℃, and humidity ranging between 35% and 75%.

When in Use

When in use, the service life will depend on:

• User device: When used in applications requiring high current drain or intermittent power pulses, such as keyless entry devices or watch alarms, they last longer. On the other hand, because of their chemistry, they’re less suited to low drain applications such as memory backup.
• Operating temperatures: This should be between -30°C and 60°C. If exposed to temperatures beyond this range, there's a rapid increase in self-discharge which shortens the service life.

Let’s assume the Panasonic CR1632 3V 140mAh Lithium Coin Cell on a 15kΩ load.

Given that this cell has an operating temperature of -20℃ to 80℃ (Note that you should consult the manufacturer when expecting a usage exceeding 70℃).

When operating at -10°C, the battery would last for over 700 hours. When operating at a normal temperature of 20°C, it would last for less than 700 hours. Finally, if the operating temperature is 60°C, it would last for approximately 700 hours.

CR1632 Battery Equivalents

Always use the battery specified by the device manufacturer. Considering that the battery compartment may fit different coin-sized batteries, the capacity requirements vary by device. Besides, lithium coin batteries aren't interchangeable because of their different dimensions.

Having said that, some device manufacturers may give a list of different batteries which are recommended for a device. In this case, one can interchange batteries. Moreover, while CR1632 is the official name, different battery manufacturers may use other labels, such as the Energizer 1632 (ECR1632) or DCR1632 by Duracell.

If after considering the above you find that your device’s lithium coin battery is interchangeable, here are a few equivalents that you can go for: VL1632, ML1632, LiR1632, BR1632, DL1632, ECR1632, KCR1632, KECR1632, KL1632, L1632.

Have you noticed the common ‘1632’ label in every model number listed above? This means that they have the same physical dimensions, i.e. 16mm diameter by 3.2mm width, as CR1632. 

Keep in mind that because of their different chemistries, use the same brand of batteries in your device at a time. Mixed matching may damage your appliance.

Safety Precautions While Using the Battery

The small size of this lithium cell makes swallowing by children a major risk. The resulting chemical burns to the oesophagus could lead to serious injuries and, even worse, death. In the unfortunate event that a child—or pet—swallows this battery, seek emergency medical help immediately.

To prevent such a calamity, you’re advised to keep lithium coin batteries out of the reach and sight of children. Further, ensure that the battery compartment in electronic devices using this battery is difficult, or impossible, for a child to open.

What should this compartment look like?

For starters, a screwdriver, or another such tool, should be required to open it. Further, it should take two simultaneous and separate movements to open it by hand.

But that’s not all. Other safety precautions to take are:

• Avoiding using the batteries in extremely heated environments or throwing them in a fire. They could become discharged or blow up
• Discontinuing use when you detect leakage or discolouration
• Removing batteries from devices, not in use for long periods
• Not dropping or hitting the battery. It could cause leakage and even an explosion
• Avoiding using batteries beyond their expiry date since they may leak into the electronic causing damage

FAQs

Is CR1632 Rechargeable?

No, this lithium coin battery isn’t rechargeable.

Forcefully charging this non-rechargeable battery may cause it to leak, heat up or explode—all of which will not only destroy your device but could also cause serious injury.

Simply replace the battery when the power is exhausted.

How Do I Safely Dispose Of Coin/ Button Batteries?

Once a battery comes to the end of its service life, the type and chemical composition determine how it should be disposed of.

For starters, never dispose of lithium coin cells with other household waste. Instead, look for a battery recycling facility near you or a retailer that accepts used batteries and take them there.

To prepare them for recycling, place each used battery in a separate plastic paper. Alternatively, you can cover the terminals with electrical tape. Afterwards, you may store them in a non-metallic box before dropping them off for recycling. Remember to keep used batteries away from children.

If you’re in doubt on how to safely dispose of a dead cell, contact the manufacturer and request this information.

Is BR1632 the Same as CR1632?

While these batteries are interchangeable, they’re not the same. Make sure you’re aware of the differences listed in the product details before choosing the wrong battery for your device.

Here are a few differences.