FAQ
Just like standard lead acid batteries, Lithium batteries consist of positive plates (cathodes) and negative plates (anodes) as well as insulating separators to avoid short circuits between the positive and negative plates, and finally electrolyte, which is the conductive liquid although unlike flooded lead acid batteries, there is no free liquid in LiFePO4 batteries.
A lithium battery differs in the materials used for the above mentioned components, especially the cathode and also the process undertaken during charge and re-charge. A lead acid battery undertakes chemical reactions, which change their components. Lithium just transfers ions during the charge and discharge process leaving everything else the same.
Are all Lithium batteries the same?
The term “Lithium” or “Lithium Ion” refers to a family of batteries in which ions move from the negative electrode (anode) to the positive electrode (cathode) during discharge and back again when being charged. The point to note in this definition is that it refers to a “family of batteries”. Just like Lead Acid family which contains Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) and Gel types, there are a number of different “Lithium Ion” technologies within the Lithium Ion family. They each utilize different materials for their cathode and (to a lesser degree) anode and as a result exhibit different characteristics, which makes some more suitable than others for different applications.
Safest form of Lithium Ion when considering temperature and abuse such as overcharge/discharge, short circuit and penetration
High thermal runaway point
Similar voltage to SLA (3.2V per cell = 12.8V)
Good all round performance making it flexible for many applications
Environmentally friendly, phosphate is not hazardous and so is friendly both to the environment and health.
Slow capacity loss – meaning they can sit for longer without requiring re-fresh charge.
High cycle life
Cost effective
The LiFePO4 batteries are the safest type of lithium batteries.
Phosphate based technology possesses superior thermal and chemical stability which provides better safety characteristics than those of Lithium-ion technology made with other cathode materials. Lithium phosphate cells are incombustible in the event of mishandling during charge or discharge, they are more stable under overcharge or short circuit conditions and they can withstand high temperatures. LifePO4 has a very high thermal runaway temperature when compared to the other types at approximately 270oC as compared to as low as 150oC. LiFePO4 is also more chemically robust when compared to other variants.
What is a BMS? What does it do and where is it located?
BMS stands for Battery Management System. The BMS protects the cells from getting damaged — most commonly from over or under-voltage, over-voltage , over current, high temperature or external short-circuiting. The BMS will shut off the battery to protect the cells from unsafe operating conditions. All hydrocell batteries have a built-in BMS to manage and protect them against all types of possibe isues.
What size terminals and bolts come on Hydrocell batteries?
HYDROCELL’s LiFePO4 batteries mainly feature M6, M8 or M10 terminals(Customization can be done based on MOQ). These types of terminals are both in insert/Protrude terminals, also referred to as internal /External threads, and come with bolts. The terminal and bolt sizes are metric and the numerical signifier is the dimension in mm. For example, the M8 terminal is 8mm in diameter. . Longer bolts, if needed, can be found at most hardware stores.
Can you mount the batteries in any position?
Yes, because there is no fluid inside of LiFePO4 batteries. This gives you the flexibility to install the battery where it is best suited for your applications.
How does the battery cope with Mechanical/Physical Damage?
Under the IEC and UN38.3 the batteries and cells undergo a range of mechanical abuse testing including Impact, Drop and Vibration testing, in order to pass the test the battery must not leak, vent, disassemble, rupture or ignite.
Do I charge Lithium Battery differently to Lead Acid?
A standard charger contains charging profile is a reference to the way voltage and current vary during a full charge of a battery, and its adaptive depending on the type of battery,since they are functionally dissimilar and constructed in different ways.
Without getting too technical, the LiFePO4 battery has a much smaller voltage tolerance and, because of that, the ‘trickle’ charge of the deep-cycle battery does not apply. And that means a LiFePO4 battery can be charged faster while minimising the risk of overcharging.
Fast charging charger can be ordered as optional .
How often and for how long should I charge my lithium-ion battery?
Following the proper charging guidelines below ensures safe and reliable battery operation
If you use your battery all day and/or use it daily:
Charge your battery daily, until the charger indicator light turns green
If you use your battery infrequently, such as a couple times a week, month, etc.
Charge your battery at least once a week
How do I storge my lithium battery during vacation time?
Simply charge your battery to 100%, disconnect the battery from your charger, and your equipment, then store in temperatures anywhere between 4°F to 113°F (1month)(-20°C to 45°C) or 32°F to 95°F (1year)(0°C to 35°C). For storage longer than 3 months, the recommended temperature range is 32°F to 95°F (0°C to 35°C)., then it’s safe to store at a 90-100% state of charge. Unlike lead-acid batteries, a partial state of charge does not harm lithium batteries.
Where can I buy HYDROCELL batteries?
HYDROCELL batteries can be purchased through our dealers and distributors all over the world(to become a dealer you can contact use through the form). Send requreset form under contact page will help you locate a dealer in your area.
How quickly can I get my batteries after I order them on RELiON's website?
Orders from our dealers can be delivered within 1-2 business days after your order is placed. The transit time will depend on the shipping address. You will be notified via email when your order ships. For dealers/Distributors the lead time will be 30-45 days from factory .
What is the expected life of a LiFePO4 battery?
Battery life is measured in life cycles and Hydrocell’s LiFePO4 is typically rated to deliver 3500 cycles at 100% depth of discharge (DOD). Actual life expectancy is dependent on several variables based on your specific application. If used for the same application, a LiFePO4 battery can last up to 10X longer than a lead-acid battery.
No. Any other charger than the one supplied with hydrocell product is especially prohibited. Contact your authorized Hydrocell dealer/distributor if you need to replace your battery charger.
How can I get maximum range or distance per charge?
Ideal driving conditions are rare. Often, you will ride up hills, over sidewalk cracks, across uneven and loosely packed surfaces, around curves and in windy conditions, which all affect the distance or running time per charge.
Below are a few suggestions for achieving the maximum range per charge.
Lithium-ion batteries perform best with short or interval charging and partial discharges
Plan your route ahead of time to limit the number of inclines or uneven surfaces as much as possible
Limit the number of non-essential items you carry. They increase the overall weight on your device and ultimately affect your battery.
Maintain an even speed while your mobility device is in motion
Limit stop-and-go driving
When storing your battery for more than 30 days, charge your battery at least once per month to improve performance and lifespan
Follow the charging instruction as recommended in the manual supplied with the battery charger.
Check wiring connections often to ensure they’re secured properly. This prevents unnecessary draining. Always check all harness connections are secured properly
Operate your hydrocell product at a reduced speed to improve range
Store the battery in the recommended operational air temperature range: 4°F to 113°F (1month)(-20°C to 45°C) or 32°F to 95°F (1year)(0°C to 35°C)
Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries and devices containing these batteries should not go in household garbage or recycling bins. They can cause fires during transport or at landfills and recyclers. Instead, Li-ion batteries should be taken to separate recycling or household hazardous waste collection points.
To prevent fires, which can happen if batteries come in contact with each other or with other metals, Hydrocell recommends taping the battery terminals (or connections) with non-conductive tape. Electrical tape is preferred, but all adhesive tapes not made of metallic material will work. Alternatively, placing each battery in its own plastic /wooden containers also isolates the terminals.