A method of manufacturing an electrochemical cell is provided. The cell includes a rigid housing and an electrode assembly disposed in the housing. The method includes providing a housing that includes a first end, a second end formed separately from the first end, and a tubular sidewall formed separately from each of the first end and the second end. After the electrode assembly is inserted into the sidewall, the first end is welded to one end of the sidewall, and the second end is welded to the other end of the sidewall.