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What Is In a Lithium Battery?

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What Is In a Lithium Battery?

Lithium batteries are often regarded as superior to other battery chemistries. These power packs are also widely used in a variety of applications from everyday gadgets like mobile phones down to the battery backups you have for occasional power outages. Over the years, they have built quite a reputation for being the more stable and power-efficient battery type, making them a top choice for most battery users.

A lithium battery consists of four main components: the cathode, anode, electrolyte, and separator. The cathode is the source of lithium ions that flow within the battery, while the anode stores them as it enables the current to flow through an external circuit during the charging process.

Meanwhile, the electrolyte is comprised of salts, solvents and additives that all serve as the conduit of lithium ions between the cathode and anode. Lastly, we have the separator which acts as a barrier to keep the cathode and anode working separately.

Enough of the technical stuffwhat is the deal about these batteries and why are they sought after? For starters, they have a longer cycle life compared to their lead-acid counterparts. Lithium-based batteries are also able to hold more usable capacity and can charge faster.

While there are different types of this power pack and some are known to explode particularly lithium-ion batteries, the overall benefits you get from it make it the best pick among other batteries in the market.

What's Special About LiFePO4 Batteries?

It was mentioned earlier that there are several types of lithium chemistries and at present, the most stand-out one would be the lithium iron phosphate battery or LiFePO4 battery.

If you're buying new batteries, you'd definitely hear about this one because of how popular it is. They are known for showcasing drastic improvements in the lithium battery composition both in terms of exterior qualities and performance.

LiFePO4 is a natural mineral and boasts extremely safe chemistry. Due to its thermal and structural stability, this power pack is incombustible and extra durable. Gone are the days when you constantly have to worry about your battery exploding. You also get to enjoy a maintenance-free operation as well, along with a service life that can last for up to a decade with proper use.

You would usually see this battery encased in a battery box. They can either be a standard 12V 100Ah lithium battery, a 24V battery, or a 200Ah lithium battery. The physical appearance looks very much like conventional batteries, but check thisthey're 1/3 of the total weight of your usual lead-acid batteries (like AGM batteries)!

This makes them extremely handy, so if you're ever in need of a portable lithium battery pack 12V, you know which exact type to get. Perhaps the biggest advantage of LiFePO4 batteries is that they have an integrated battery management system (BMS).

This BMS ensures every cell inside the battery is optimised, plus, it provides automatic protection against overcharging, overheating, and short circuits. They are also suited for deep cycle applications, perfect for off grid camping and emergency purposes.

If you're thinking of switching to LiFePO4 or LFP batteries you'll be thrilled to know that you have multiple options as well. They come in a variety of capacities and voltagesif you want a small deep cycle battery, there are slimline lithium batteries available as well!

Where Can You Use LiFePO4 Batteries?

LiFePO4 batteries are one of the most versatile batteries out there. Here are some of its common applications:

Small Electric Vehicles

Want long-lasting, reliable power for your golf carts and electric mowers? These power packs are sure to give you the extended runtime you need to have fun and finish your everyday tasks.

Outdoors

Whether in a camping battery setup, 4x4 dual battery setup, or marine applications, LiFePO4 batteries are your best pick to ensure you never run out of power in the middle of your adventure.

Solar

Most LiFePO4 batteries are solar compatible, which is why they are now widely used as home energy storage as well! Pair them with a good set of solar panels and you've got renewable energy at its finest.

Power Backup

Power out? Have a LiFePO4 battery on standby! These are considered lithium deep cycle batteries, so you get up to 80% of usable capacity for longer periods of use.

Convinced about buying a lithium battery yet? Browse through our LiFePO4 range at Outbax and you might just make up your mind! You get quality portable power at almost half the cost of usual lithium battery prices, plus, you'll have it delivered right to your doorstep, FREE of charge.