Battery Design
Other PAPR external battery designs result in uneven weight distribution while also creating an additional “snag” hazard and decon concern. The battery packs for the PA3H were engineered inside the profile of the housing, with care taken to allow for easy removal and change-out. Two separate battery packs allow the user to carry only the amount of battery needed to get the job done. For 4-5 hours of performance, use one battery ... for 8-10 hours install a second battery in the second port. The batteries are gasketed and the battery compartment is independent of the airflow chamber in order to maintain blower integrity.
Battery Performance and Durability
Unlike other conventional PAPRs that use outdated NiCad technology, the Bullard PA30 Series uses rechargeable Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries that do not suffer the “memory” issues of NiCad. NiMH batteries contribute to the lightweight design of the PA30, while allowing the worker up to 10 hours of battery performance on two battery packs. Bullard’s rechargeable NiMH batteries are an attractive and economical alternative to the expensive, disposable, one-time-use lithium batteries offered with other hospital preparedness PAPRs.
Charger Technology
Due to the combined characteristics of the NiMH batteries and the unique design of the Bullard charger, the NiMH batteries will be kept at peak performance even if left on charge for the long periods of time between hospital training events and/or incidents. The Bullard PA3SMC charger offers a trickle charge feature, as well as voltage and temperature monitoring, which can help assure that the batteries will be ready next week, next month, even next year!