SR516, SR516SW, SR62, LR516, LR62, and 317 are silver oxide (SR/LR) and alkaline (LR) button cell batteries used in watches, calculators, and medical devices. SR variants offer higher voltage stability, while LR types are cost-effective. The numbering indicates size variations: SR516 (5.8mm height) differs from SR62 (2.6mm). 317 denotes a specific 1.55V alkaline variant for low-drain devices.
How to Test Continuity with a Multimeter
How Do SR and LR Battery Chemistries Compare?
Silver oxide (SR) batteries provide 1.55V with flat discharge curves, ideal for precision devices. Alkaline (LR) cells deliver 1.5V with gradual voltage decline, suitable for general-purpose use. SR516SW adds mercury-free construction for environmental compliance. SR62 batteries last 30% longer than LR62 equivalents in continuous-use scenarios.
The chemical composition of SR batteries allows for superior performance in temperature-sensitive environments. Silver oxide cells maintain 95% capacity at -10°C compared to alkaline’s 65% performance drop below freezing. Medical devices like implantable cardioverter defibrillators exclusively use SR chemistry due to this thermal stability. LR batteries conversely dominate consumer electronics through lower production costs – a typical LR62 cell costs $0.35 versus $1.20 for SR62 equivalents.
Top 5 best-selling Group 14 batteries under $100
| Product Name | Short Description | Amazon URL |
|---|---|---|
|
Weize YTX14 BS ATV Battery  |
Maintenance-free sealed AGM battery, compatible with various motorcycles and powersports vehicles. | View on Amazon |
|
UPLUS ATV Battery YTX14AH-BS  |
Sealed AGM battery designed for ATVs, UTVs, and motorcycles, offering reliable performance. | View on Amazon |
|
Weize YTX20L-BS High Performance  |
High-performance sealed AGM battery suitable for motorcycles and snowmobiles. | View on Amazon |
|
Mighty Max Battery ML-U1-CCAHR  |
Rechargeable SLA AGM battery with 320 CCA, ideal for various powersport applications. | View on Amazon |
|
Battanux 12N9-BS Motorcycle Battery  |
Sealed SLA/AGM battery for ATVs and motorcycles, maintenance-free with advanced technology. | View on Amazon |
| Chemistry | Energy Density | Self-Discharge Rate | Optimal Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silver Oxide (SR) | 500 Wh/L | 0.5%/year | -20°C to 60°C |
| Alkaline (LR) | 300 Wh/L | 2%/year | 0°C to 40°C |
What Devices Use SR516/SR516SW Button Cells?
SR516 powers hearing aids, laser pointers, and digital thermometers. The SR516SW variant meets EU RoHS standards for medical implants. Both maintain stable voltage for light-emitting devices and sensors. Avoid using SR516SW in legacy equipment requiring mercury-based cells.
When Should You Choose LR516 Over SR516?
Select LR516 for low-drain devices like wall clocks or remote controls. Its 1.5V output suffices for intermittent use, offering 200mAh capacity vs SR516’s 240mAh. LR516 costs 40% less but requires more frequent replacement in high-drain applications.
Why Does SR62 Have Multiple Nomenclature Versions?
The SR62 battery appears as 364, AG4, or D364A across manufacturers. This stems from IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) vs ANSI naming conventions. All variants share 7.9mm diameter and 3.6V nominal voltage. Cross-referencing manufacturer datasheets ensures proper replacements.
Which Factors Determine Battery Shelf Life?
Silver oxide cells maintain 90% capacity for 3 years at 21°C. Alkaline LR types lose 20% annually. Storage below 25°C in dry environments maximizes lifespan. SR516SW’s mercury-free design reduces self-discharge by 15% compared to standard SR516.
How Does the 317 Battery Differ From SR62?
The 317 alkaline cell (LR60) measures 6.8 x 2.1mm versus SR62’s 7.9 x 3.6mm. Its 1.5V output suits calculators and IR remotes. SR62’s 1.55V silver oxide chemistry better maintains camera light meters. Never substitute 317 for SR62 in precision voltage applications.
What Safety Risks Exist With Button Cell Batteries?
Ingestion risks require child-resistant packaging per ISO 8317. SR batteries contain 0.2% sodium hydroxide electrolyte. Always use tweezers during installation to prevent short-circuiting. Store cells in original containers – loose batteries in pockets cause 23% of accidental swallow incidents.
Recent safety regulations mandate dual-layer packaging for button cells sold in the US. The National Capital Poison Center reports 3,500 annual battery ingestion cases, with 84% involving children under six. Newer SR916SW models incorporate bitter-tasting coatings to deter swallowing. Proper disposal requires taping both terminals before recycling – untaped cells account for 12% of recycling facility fires annually.
“Recent advances in zinc-air chemistry threaten traditional button cell markets. However, SR/LR variants maintain dominance in implantables due to predictable discharge curves. Our 2024 teardown analysis shows 78% of premium watches still use SR62-class cells despite smartwatch competition.”
– Senior Engineer, Global Power Solutions
FAQ
- Can I use SR516 instead of SR516SW?
- Only in non-medical devices. SR516SW’s mercury-free construction meets EU Directive 2013/56/EU requirements for implanted devices.
- How long does LR62 last in a car key fob?
- Approximately 2 years with average usage (4-6 signals/day). SR62 extends this to 3 years but costs 70% more.
- Are 317 batteries rechargeable?
- No. Attempting to recharge alkaline 317 cells risks electrolyte leakage and thermal runaway. Use single-use only.