FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Dip the HydraCell for approx. 10-15 seconds in any water, this causes a chemical reaction between magnesium and oxygen, inducing an ionic exchange releasing electrons (power), these electrons are then collected by the carbon cathode collector and converted into usable power.
From new there is a 25+ year shelf life if stored sealed in original packaging and dry. The HydraCell can be stored prior to first use for 25+ years and is activated instantly to full capacity simply by dipping in water. Once activated the cell will operate continuously under load, requiring only periodic re-hydration.
HydraCells are offered in two configurations the HC1D used in the smaller AquaTac and AquaFlash Flashlights which will provide up to 100 Hours of continuous light/power and the HC2D used in the larger AquaPro and Shark Light Flashlights which will deliver 120+ hours of continuous light/power. The Shark Light uses 2x HC2D cells which will deliver approximately 200+ hours of light/power.
The HydraCells can be rehydrated a number of times depending on use. The HC1D Cells (smaller version) we recommend can be re-dipped up to five times whereas the (larger version) HC2D Cells can be re-dipped up to ten times.
When does the power output stop?
Power will be generated from new until the magnesium anode is depleted. There is a linear power output (same power until the rod has been consumed). The cell is exhausted when the anode is fully consumed at which point power will stop and the cell will need to be replaced.
How do I recharge the battery?
The Hydracell is not a rechargeable battery, it is a Mag Air fuel cell (a low power generator) which can be regenerated until the Magnesium anode is full depleted. To regenerate the cell you simply need to re-dip it in water for 10-15 seconds. (Until the consumable anode is depleted)
What if I keep it submerged, will I have abundant power?
No, as oxygen is the external fuel that the Hydracell uses, if it is submerged, eventually the chemical reaction will stop (the cell needs to breathe). Additionally there is an absorbent membrane holding the liquid within the cell which could swell and cause damage to the cell if submerged for extended periods.
No, you can use almost any type of water and liquid within reason as long as it is NOT an oil based liquid such as cooking oil, engine oils, vegetable oils, etc. Any fresh water, salt water solution, sea water or underground water works equally as well. If in an emergency you can also use human consumable beverages.
Can I put it into my other products?
No, currently the HydraCell range of products have been designed specifically to take the HydraCell Mag Air Fuel Cells this includes the requirement for the Cells to breathe during operation. In the future we plan to launch standard battery fuel cells that will be able to be used in general consumer products.
What power output does it have?
HydraCells HC2D Cells provide an initial high-power output of approx 4.5V and 2 Amps. Unlike a conventional battery HydraCells stabilise the voltage and the amps will slowly diminish over its life to approx 3.2V under load for the duration of the cells usable life (subject to occasional rehydration). The HC1D Cells provide an initial high-power output of approx 4.5V and 1 Amps. The HC1D stabilises to approx 3.2V under load for the duration of the cells usable life (subject to occasional rehydration).
How do I know if my Hydra-Cell needs to be replaced?
Generally a HydraCell will need to be replaced between 100 and 200 hours of runtime (depending on size). If you are experiencing low light or constantly having to dip the Energy Cell, it may need to be replaced. The HydraCell can be stored prior to first use for 25+ years in its original packaging and is activated instantly to full capacity simply by dipping in water. Once activated the cell will operate continuously under load, requiring only periodic re-hydration. In certain conditions the HydraCell will dry out prematurely, especially in warm dry environments and may need to be dipped in water more frequently.
Does the Hydra-Cell have to be dipped into salt water?
No the HydraCell’s are already infused with salt allowing the use of any water to create the salt water bridge. If the cells are getting towards the end of life dipping in hot water for 10-15 seconds can rejuvenate the cell and extract the final power from it.
Is there any harmful chemical residue?
No, the residue from the Hydra-Cell is entirely biodegradable the waste build up (which is part of the process) is Magnesium Hydroxide which is harmless if accidentally swallowed. However we recommend seeing a doctor should any element of the HydraCell is accidentally swallowed.
Yes. Spare cell will be available to consumers in double packs on our website and in quality retailers that stock the HydraCell brand both online and in-store.
Do you use ethical labor practices?
Hydra-Light International is committed to conducting business in a fair and ethical manner and does not deal with any companies or manufacturers employing child labour and complies with all international labor laws . Our products are produced by manufacturers that conduct themselves in a wholly ethical manner and Hydra-Light International requires that these companies understand and fully comply with International Labour Standards and International Labour Laws.