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Li ion 18650 battery

(128479 products available)

About li ion 18650 battery

Types of Li-ion 18650 battery

The Li-ion 18650 battery comes in several types. Each of these types has advantages based on a battery's intended use.

Lithium Cobalt Oxide (LCO)

This battery developed, commonly referred to as 18650 LCO, battery offers high energy density. It also offers excellent performance for power-sensitive applications. These applications include smartphones and laptops. Although it provides less stability compared to other chemistries, its energy density makes it very useful in certain applications.

Lithium Nickel Cobalt Aluminum Oxide (NCA)

The NCA battery is popular due to its high energy density and ability to provide stable long-term performance. It is commonly used in electric vehicles and industrial applications. This is because it balances performance and safety.

Lithium Manganese Oxide (LMO)

The LMO battery features a stable structure which improves safety and thermal stability. Its lower energy density makes it less ideal for high-capacity applications. However, its rapid discharge capability and use in combination with other chemistries, makes it suitable for power tools, medical devices, and hybrid electric vehicles.

Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4 or LFP)

The LFP battery prioritizes safety and cycle stability over energy density. Its long life makes it ideal for applications where longevity is important. Such applications include electric buses, energy storage systems, and power tools. The battery's robust nature enables it to perform well in demanding environments.

NMC (Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide)

The NMC battery chemistry is adaptable depending on its ratio of nickel, manganese, and cobalt. It provides a good balance between energy density, power, and lifespan. This makes it suitable for electric vehicles and grid energy storage solutions.

NMC batteries are also known for their durability and cost-effectiveness.

NCA (Lithium Nickel Cobalt Aluminum Oxide)

The NCA battery offers high energy density. It also provides excellent performance in electric vehicles and aviation applications. It contains a smaller proportion of materials like manganese and cobalt. This makes it more energy-dense but less stable and more sensitive to overheating.

Industrial applications of Li-ion 18650 battery

Li-ion 18650 batteries have a lot of value in a lot of industrial applications. These premium applications leverage the batteries' energy density, longevity, and versatility.

Electric Vehicles (EVs)

18650 Li-ion batteries power EVs. Within these electric vehicles, they store large amounts of energy, powering the vehicle for long hours. The batteries offer a combination of energy density, safety, and long cycle life. So they support the growing demand for longer ranges and faster charging times. It is worth noting that some automotive manufacturers have begun incorporating 18650 cells into their EV platforms for this very reason.

Energy Storage Systems (ESS)

Industries use large-scale energy storage systems to store renewable energy. They do this by using Li-ion 18650 batteries to store excess energy generated during peak times. They then release the energy during periods of high demand or outages. The batteries' ability to efficiently store and discharge energy makes them crucial for balancing energy supply and demand.

Power Tools

Many manufacturers are now using these lithium batteries in cordless power tools, industrial power tools, and tool kits. The batteries provide high energy and long-lasting charges to professional-grade drills, saws, wrenches, and other tools. This is why industrial manufacturers widely prefer the 18650's lightweight construction and compact design.

Medical Devices

Industries integrate 18650 batteries into portable medical devices, like infusion pumps, portable imaging systems, and monitoring equipment. In these devices, the rechargeable batteries offer reliability and long service life, keeping critical medical equipment operational without frequent charging.

Commercial Drones

Industrial applications use 18650 lithium batteries to power drones for aerial photography, agricultural monitoring, and mapping. The batteries' energy density enables drones to carry heavier payloads for longer. This makes them ideal for industries that require extended flight times and reliable power in their drone operations.

Product specifications and features of Li-ion 18650 battery

When buying Li-ion 18650 batteries, there are certain key features and specifications one must consider. This is because they affect the performance and compatibility of the batteries for different uses.

Key features

These batteries feature a cylindrical shape with an 18mm diameter and 65mm length. They come with a rechargeable design for long-term use and have a typical voltage of 3.7V. The batteries boast a capacity that normally ranges from 1500mAh to 3500mAh. This varies based on the specific chemistry and application. They also have excellent energy density which typically ranges from 200Wh/kg to 250Wh/kg.

How to install

Users should first ensure battery compatibility with the device by checking specifications. They should then open the battery compartment or designated slot in the device. Next, they should insert the 18650 Li-ion battery making sure the positive and negative terminals match the device's orientation. Lastly, they should secure the battery compartment and as a check, power on the device to ensure proper functionality.

Maintenance and repair

Frequent charging of 18650 Li-ion batteries is important to prolong their lifespan. However, one should avoid complete discharges. Ideally, users should keep the battery level between 20% and 80%. Also, one must store these batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The ideal storage temperature should be between 15°C and 25°C.

In case of swelling, visible damage, or decreased performance, users must replace the battery with an identical model. Different battery chemistries should not be mixed as they can cause hazardous situations and reduced performance. Users should also handle the battery with care to prevent physical damage.

Quality and safety considerations

In any device, safety is a priority. Look for batteries that have passed safety tests and come with overcurrent protection, temperature control, and short circuit prevention features. These are the very features that ensure quality and reliability.

Additionally, the brand does not affect performance so long as the manufacturer is reliable and trusted. If they are using counterfeit batteries, it often results in failure. Therefore, one should select either original equipment manufacturer batteries or from trusted brands.

Further, to select batteries with the required capacity for intended use, look at the mAh rating. Small electronics like remotes and LED lamps require batteries with less than 2000mAh. Devices that draw moderate power like cameras require 2000mAh to 2500mAh. Finally, sure devices that need extended power (more than an hour) use batteries with more than 2500mAh.

Li-ion 18650 battery quality and safety considerations

Keeping the battery in a cool area

Users should keep the Li-ion 18650 battery in a cool area to ensure optimum performance. 18650 Li-ion batteries generate a lot of heat during their operation. High temperatures can significantly affect their performance and reduce their lifespan. When the temperature is too high for the batteries, they are likely to experience increased internal resistance, capacity loss, and reduced cycle life.

Battery management system

To prevent this from happening, industries incorporate battery management systems (BMS) in maintaining temperature control. Sometimes users should consider using cooling systems or heat sinks to help manage battery temperatures. Further, users should avoid leaving the battery in situations where extreme temperatures (above 60°C or below -10°C) might affect it.

Casing materials

Most manufacturers make 18650 battery casings from steel and aluminium. Steel ensures better protection due to its rigidity. Unfortunately, it makes the battery heavier. While aluminium is lighter, making it more portable, it offers less protection since it is a softer metal like nickel.

The other metal users should avoid is copper. Manufacturers use copper in some old models due to its high conductivity. This sometimes results in short circuits because of poor insulation. Lastly, users should also avoid batteries with plastic casings. Manufacturers normally use plastic in low-cost batteries. Although it makes the batteries lighter, it offers less protection.

Inspect the battery regularly

Frequent checks on the battery help identify deterioration signs early. Some of these signs include physical damage, swelling, and leakage. Detecting these signs early allows for their replacement before contributing to dangerous situations. In some extreme cases, users should consider having a fire extinguisher nearby. Also, they should store the batteries in a fireproof bag. These precautions help mitigate the risk of fires or explosions.

Q&A

Q. Can one use any charger for the 18650 Li-ion batteries?

A. No, one should exclusively use dedicated chargers designed for 18650 lithium-ion batteries. Because using the wrong charger can result in overcharging, undercharging, or insufficient charging. Any of these scenarios can damage the battery or the device.

Q. What factors affect the Li-ion 18650 battery lifespan?

A. Several factors can affect the battery's lifespan. Some are unavoidable, like environmental conditions. Others like poor charging habits or using incompatible devices are totally within the user's control. Frequent complete discharges, exposure to extreme temperatures, and using the device while plugged in can negatively impact battery life. Also, using cheap materials can contribute to this occurrence.

Q. Which are some interesting practices buyers can engage in to ensure better battery performance?

A. They should first ensure good thermal management. That is, they should keep the battery cool and properly ventilated during use. Next, users should avoid deep discharges and frequent full cycles. They should aim to keep the battery charged between 20% and 80% whenever possible. Finally, they should store the battery in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight when not in use.

Q. What do people mean by battery swelling?

A. Battery swelling is a common phenomenon in lithium-ion batteries. It occurs when the internal components of a battery break down due to extended exposure to high temperatures. Sometimes even age can be a factor. When the materials break down, they produce gasses that cause the battery to swell. While not harmful to the environment by itself, a swollen battery can be very dangerous.