How to choose the correct type and size of Lithium Battery

by Jason Marshall

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With various shapes and sizes available, selecting the right lithium battery can be quite perplexing. Different applications necessitate distinct battery types; hence understanding your needs is crucial.

Step 1 - Identify Your Application

Nowadays, lithium batteries power an array of devices including cars, smartphones, scooters, drones, caravans, boats, homes, and cities. Each application has unique requirements. Some devices, like drones and smartphones, demand compact high-energy batteries, while others, such as homes or even cities, require larger and more stable batteries. Additionally, you need to consider battery chemistries such as Lithium Phosphate, Lithium Cobalt Oxide, Lithium Manganese Oxide, and others.

Different Lithium Battery Types:

• Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4)
• Lithium Cobalt Oxide (LiCoO2)
• Lithium Manganese Oxide (LiMn2O4)
• Lithium Nickel Manganese Oxide (LiNiMnCoO2)
• Lithium Nickel Cobalt Aluminium Oxide (LiNiCoAlO2)
• Lithium Titanate Oxide (Li2TiO3)

Common Applications:

• Recreational deep discharge, off-grid energy storage
• Mobile phones, tablets, laptops, drones
• Power tools, medical devices
• Electric vehicles, e-bikes, industrial and medical
• Tesla vehicles, industrial applications
• Large-scale energy storage, solar lighting

Given the focus of this article, we will center on Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4), as it is particularly suited for recreational applications.

Step 2 - Calculate Required Battery Size

After identifying your application—be it a car, caravan, or boat—you need to understand your power requirements and duration. For instance, if your device draws 10 amps for 10 hours, you will need a minimum of a 100Ah battery. However, for battery longevity, aim for a lower discharge level.

Despite initial perceptions of lithium batteries as nearly mystical energy sources, some key truths exist:.

• Deeper discharges shorten lithium battery lifespan.
• Rapid charging can also reduce battery life.

Fortunately, you can discharge LiFePO4 batteries more than traditional lead-acid types without compromising their lifespan significantly. To enhance battery longevity, a 120Ah or even a 200Ah battery can be ideal, allowing for a reduced depth of discharge.

The major advantage of lithium batteries is that a larger portion of their capacity is usable, unlike lead-acid batteries, which should not be discharged beyond 50%. With lithium, you can use the power you need!

Step 3 - Choosing Between Cylindrical or Prismatic Cells

There are three main types of Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries: Cylindrical, Prismatic, and Pouch. Given that Pouch cells are ideal for smaller devices, we will compare only Cylindrical and Prismatic ones. Key factors to consider include:

• Ability to withstand high temperatures while maintaining a good cycle life
• Resistance to vibration and impacts
• Capacity to handle higher voltages
• Compact design to maximize power in a smaller case
• Adherence to safety standards
• UN38.3 certification for transport safety
• Quality control measures
• Source of materials, ideally Australian lithium

Ultimately, our choice landed on cylindrical cells due to their superior safety features.

Step 4 - Safety Features

While lithium batteries offer remarkable advantages, they do have limitations. Overcharging poses risks, and discharging below a critical threshold can result in chemical damage, especially in low temperatures. Each lithium cell aims to draw more charge than the others during charging, necessitating a Battery Management System (BMS) to regulate charging and enhance battery durability through active cell balancing.

Step 5 - Case Type and Voltage Options

Lithium batteries vary widely in size and configuration. Depending on your installation, options such as standard and slimline batteries can provide much-needed flexibility. Consider your voltage requirements and the accompanying chargers accordingly. For instance, modern LiFePO4 should ideally be charged at around 3.6V per cell or 14.4V for 12V batteries.

Pairing an OzCharge Lithium battery with a Pro Lithium charger allows you to maximize efficiency.

Step 6 - Series or Parallel Configurations

Is it possible to connect lithium batteries in series or parallel? The answer is yes, but caution is advised. Series connections may lead to pack imbalances. Regularly charging each battery individually while monitoring balance can mitigate issues.

Step 7 - Tips for Long Lithium Battery Life

Optimizing lithium battery lifespan hinges on several practices:

1. Aim for a discharge rate between 60% and 80% DOD to prolong life.
2. Utilize a dedicated lithium charger that disconnects after fully charging.
3. Use chargers with output amperage between 10% to 20% of the battery's rated capacity.
4. Keep battery temperatures below 50 degrees Celsius and avoid under-bonnet installations.
5. Install batteries upright in mobile applications to enhance safety.

For a list of our bestselling lithium batteries suitable for various applications, visit our website!

What is the smallest size battery I can use for my vehicle?

The smallest battery size will vary based on the vehicle’s motor size and performance mods. It’s key to choose a battery that can handle these demands without compromising longevity.

1. Our Restart batteries are ideal direct replacements for stock motorcycles and maintain similar part numbers for ease of use.

2. Reference the FAQ above for guidance on Small Case vs. Restart batteries based on vehicle size and specifications.

Contact Us for further assistance regarding your needs from Compact size low voltage lithium battery factory. Our knowledgeable sales team can help you understand which options are the best fit for you.