Basic Parameters of Lithium Batteries

1. Rated Capacity

Rated capacity refers to the maximum charge a lithium battery can deliver under specific conditions, typically measured in milliampere-hours (mAh) or ampere-hours (Ah). This parameter reflects the battery's ability to store energy and determines how long it can power a device. When selecting a lithium battery, the required capacity should be determined based on the device's power consumption and expected usage time.

2. Rated Voltage

Rated voltage refers to the voltage of a lithium battery when fully charged, typically measured in volts (V). Understanding the battery's rated voltage helps us select the appropriate charger and power-consuming device to ensure proper battery operation.

3. Internal Resistance

Internal resistance refers to the internal resistance of a lithium battery, which affects its charge and discharge efficiency and heat generation. The lower the internal resistance, the higher the battery's charge and discharge efficiency and the lower the heat generated. Therefore, when selecting a lithium battery, it is best to choose one with a low internal resistance.

4. Cycle Life

Cycle life refers to the number of charge and discharge cycles a lithium battery can undergo. The cycle life of a lithium battery depends on its structure and materials, and generally ranges from several hundred to several thousand cycles. Understanding the battery's cycle life helps us plan battery usage and replacement cycles appropriately and avoid excessive battery wear.

5. Self-discharge rate

The self-discharge rate refers to the rate at which a lithium battery discharges when unused, typically expressed as a percentage per month. A lithium battery's self-discharge rate is dependent on factors such as its materials, manufacturing process, and storage conditions. Understanding the battery's self-discharge rate helps us plan battery storage and usage appropriately, preventing battery loss due to prolonged inactivity.

6. Operating temperature range

The operating temperature range refers to the temperature range within which lithium batteries operate normally. Lithium batteries are temperature-sensitive, and temperatures both too high and too low can affect their performance and lifespan. Therefore, when using lithium batteries, ensure they operate within the appropriate temperature range to avoid battery damage or safety incidents.

7. Charging time

Charging time refers to the time it takes for a lithium battery to charge from empty to full, typically measured in hours. This charging time is affected by various factors, including the charger's power, the battery's capacity, and the charging method. Understanding the battery's charging time helps us plan charging appropriately and avoid overcharging or undercharging. 8. Depth of Discharge

Depth of discharge refers to the ratio of the maximum capacity reached by a lithium battery during discharge to its rated capacity. The deeper the depth of discharge, the shorter the battery life. Therefore, when using lithium batteries, avoid deep discharge to extend the battery life.

9. Cut-off Voltage

The cut-off voltage refers to the voltage threshold that a lithium battery should not exceed during charging and discharging. During charging, the battery voltage should not exceed the maximum cut-off voltage; during discharging, the battery voltage should not fall below the minimum cut-off voltage. Exceeding these thresholds may damage the battery, affecting its performance and lifespan. Therefore, when using lithium batteries, ensure that the charging and discharging processes occur within the appropriate voltage range.

10. Energy Density

Energy density refers to the amount of energy a lithium battery can store per unit volume or weight, typically measured in watt-hours per kilogram (Wh/kg) or watt-hours per liter (Wh/L). A higher energy density means the battery can store more energy within the same volume or weight, which is particularly important for electronic devices that require long-term operation or portability.

How to Choose the Right Lithium Battery

When selecting a lithium battery, we need to comprehensively consider the above parameters. First, determine the required rated capacity based on the device's power consumption and expected usage time. Second, ensure that the selected lithium battery's rated voltage, internal resistance, and cycle life meet the device's requirements. Furthermore, we need to pay attention to parameters such as the lithium battery's self-discharge rate, operating temperature range, and charging time to ensure stable and safe battery operation.