D Rechargeable Batteries

D size batteries are cylindrical in shape and have an electrical contact at each end. Positive contact may be recognised by a noticeable metal cap while the negative contact is flat. D size batteries are commonly used in applications that require an extended running time or high current drain.

Due to their size, these batteries are ideal for large flashlights, megaphones, products that use electric motors etc. To learn more about rechargeable D batteries and for help choosing the best battery for your purposes, please see our D batteries guide.

RS Australia stocks a broad range of D size rechargeable batteries, with options spanning different chemistries, capacities, and rated voltages to suit both everyday and demanding professional applications.

Battery Chemistry: NiMH vs NiCd

Rechargeable D batteries are most commonly available in two chemistries, Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) and Nickel Cadmium (NiCd), each offering distinct performance characteristics suited to different applications.

Capacity

• NiMH: Higher capacity per cell, providing longer running time between charges
• NiCd: Lower capacity than NiMH for an equivalent cell size

Memory Effect

• NiMH: Minimal to no memory effect, allowing partial recharging without capacity loss
• NiCd: More susceptible to memory effect if repeatedly partially discharged and recharged

High-Drain Performance

• NiMH: Good performance, though generally less robust than NiCd under sustained heavy load
• NiCd: Excellent high-drain performance, well suited to demanding continuous-use applications

Temperature Tolerance

• NiMH: Narrower effective operating temperature range
• NiCd: Tolerates a wider temperature range, including colder operating environments

Environmental Considerations

• NiMH: Free from cadmium, generally considered a more environmentally favourable chemistry
• NiCd: Contains cadmium, a heavy metal requiring specific disposal and recycling handling

A d type rechargeable battery in NiMH chemistry is generally the preferred choice where maximum runtime and ease of charging management are priorities, whilst NiCd remains a strong option where robust high-drain performance and wide temperature tolerance are more important than outright capacity.

D Battery Size and Specifications

Rechargeable D batteries are a better option than standard D batteries as they usually have a bigger capacity and can be used multiple times after proper recharging.

The typical rechargeable Battery D size is:

• Diameter – 33.2 mm (1.3 inches)
• Length – 61.5 mm (2.42 inches)

The specifications for rechargeable D cell batteries fall within these ranges:

• Nominal Voltage: Typically 1.2V per cell for NiMH and NiCd rechargeable D size batteries, compared with 1.5V for standard single-use alkaline D cells
• Capacity: Rechargeable D cell batteries typically range from around 2,200mAh up to 10,000mAh or higher, depending on chemistry and manufacturer
• Terminal Configuration: A raised metal button marks the positive terminal, whilst the flat base of the cell forms the negative terminal, consistent with standard cylindrical battery design

Industrial and Commercial Applications of D Batteries

D size rechargeable batteries are used across a range of industrial and commercial settings in Australia wherever high current drain or extended run time is required from a portable power source.

• Emergency & Safety Equipment: Rechargeable D batteries power torches, lanterns, and emergency lighting equipment used by Australian emergency services, facilities management teams, and industrial safety personnel where reliable, high-output illumination is essential.
• Public Address & Event Equipment: D cell rechargeable batteries are commonly used in megaphones and portable public address systems deployed at events, construction sites, and crowd management operations across Australia.
• Industrial Instrumentation: Rechargeable D cell batteries are used in portable industrial instrumentation and metering equipment where a stable, high-capacity power source is needed for extended field use.
• Motorised Equipment: D size rechargeable batteries are used in a range of battery-powered motorised devices, including certain toys, portable pumps, and mechanical equipment requiring sustained current draw.
• Utilities & Field Services: Field service technicians across Australia's utilities sector rely on rechargeable D batteries to power portable lighting and equipment used during outdoor and remote maintenance work.

Buy Rechargeable D Batteries Online from RS Australia

RS Australia is a trusted supplier of D size rechargeable batteries, stocking a comprehensive range of NiMH and NiCd cells from leading battery brands including Ansmann, Energizer, and our very own RS PRO. The full range can be filtered by chemistry, capacity, and brand, making it straightforward to buy rechargeable D batteries suited to your specific device and usage requirements.

RS Australia also carries complementary products including other rechargeable battery sizes like 9V rechargeable batteries, specialty size rechargeable batteries and battery storage boxes. Browse the full range of D size rechargeable batteries and order online at RS Australia today. For more information on our delivery options and fees, visit our delivery information page.