Soldering directly to a battery can be safe with caution, but it risks capacity loss and short circuits. This article discusses the safety concerns and safer alternatives like spot welding.

Safety Concerns of Soldering Directly to a Battery

Yes, it’s safe to <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/solder-lithium-batteries">solder directly to a battery</a>, as long as you know what you are doing. Adding a high amount of heat to a battery cell, however, will always result in a loss of capacity. Also, it's easy to short out the positive end while soldering directly to a battery if you’re not careful.&nbsp;Soldering directly onto a battery is a technique sometimes employed in various DIY projects for its perceived convenience. However, the practice is fraught with risks and implications for the battery's health and overall safety. This article will talk about the immediate and long-term concerns associated with soldering directly onto battery cells, especially those of NMC chemistry, to ascertain whether it is a safe method or if alternatives should be considered.<h2>Solder A Lithium Battery&nbsp;Safety Concerns</h2>There's a common misconception that soldering on a battery can lead to explosive results due to excessive heat. The likelihood of causing an explosion is relatively low.&nbsp; The primary immediate danger is inadvertently shorting the battery's positive and negative terminals during the soldering process, a risk that exists if proper precautions are not taken. While such incidents are rare, they underscore the importance of meticulousness and precision in the soldering procedure.Another risk is that of dropping massive globs of solder on the positive end of a cell or another other place that wouldn't be advisable to have liquid metal strewn across it. What would normally be a burn on a table could lead to a fiery disaster when soldering directly to batteries.<h2>Long-term Health and Safety of the Battery</h2>The more significant issues with soldering onto batteries arise when considering the long-term impact on the battery's health and functionality. Batteries, particularly those with sensitive NMC chemistry, can suffer from <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/lithium-batteries-degradation">performance degradation</a> when exposed to heat. The process of soldering introduces heat to the battery, which, if not uniformly applied, can cause thermal instability. This instability can lead to variances in the capacity of individual cells, ultimately affecting the battery pack's overall performance and lifespan.Also, the process of soldering can inadvertently seal the battery's built-in safety vents. These vents are super important for allowing the battery to safely release gasses in cases of overpressure. Sealing them off can create a scenario where pressure builds up without an escape route, heightening the risk of a potentially explosive situation.<figure data-trix-attachment="{&quot;contentType&quot;:&quot;image&quot;,&quot;height&quot;:313,&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/ykmiOyWrnu3S53FdU5yz98miTFxyxUNuo0fRMIrLerVXv9tJGEb11dZoVMk0kX8glJdq_VtZ_N0oAn66Sgb9fcTfqE782kSDbA5ODr6f6EA_z9xEL3Ba_skmPqKyacIo-imjby8KEu3qPPTzcmyNNTU&quot;,&quot;width&quot;:624}" data-trix-content-type="image" class="attachment attachment--preview"><img src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/ykmiOyWrnu3S53FdU5yz98miTFxyxUNuo0fRMIrLerVXv9tJGEb11dZoVMk0kX8glJdq_VtZ_N0oAn66Sgb9fcTfqE782kSDbA5ODr6f6EA_z9xEL3Ba_skmPqKyacIo-imjby8KEu3qPPTzcmyNNTU" width="624" height="313"><figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure>The Safer Alternative to Soldering: Spot Welding<a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/spot-weld-battery">Spot welding</a> offers a safer and more reliable method for connecting battery cells. Although it involves the application of heat, the technique concentrates the heat both spatially and temporally. This focused approach minimizes the risk of the heat penetrating deep into the battery cells, which can mitigate the potential for long-term damage. Spot welding's precision and efficiency make it a preferred method for professionals and enthusiasts alike who seek to maintain the integrity and safety of their battery packs. Interested in spot welding? Take a look at our guide to the <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/best-spot-welders#google_vignette">best spot welders</a>!&nbsp;<h2>So, Is It Safe To Solder Directly To A Battery?</h2>Yes. Soldering to a battery doesn’t pose an immediate explosion risk It does, however, harbor potential dangers for the <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/lithium-cell-battery-safety">battery's long-term health and safety</a>. One particular thing is not only the intensity of the heat but the uneven application of it that damages the battery pack over time. Also, if you are using way too much solder, you may even sela off the battery's safety vents, which would essentially render the cell explosive under the right conditions.&nbsp;<a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/soldering-vs-spot-welding-lithium">Spot welding instead of Soldering</a> not only provides a safer solution but also ensures the longevity and reliability of battery connections. Given these considerations, when contemplating direct soldering onto a battery, it is important to evaluate the risks and benefits carefully and consider safer, more effective alternatives for connecting battery cells.We hope this article let you know whether or not you should solder directly to a battery. Thanks for reading!&nbsp;

Is It Safe to Solder Directly to a Lithium Battery

The maximum charging voltage for a 12V battery varies depending on its type of chemistry. Lead-acid batteries typically have a max charge voltage of 14.7 volts, while lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries can handle up to 14.8 volts. For nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) lithium-ion batteries, the maximum is 12.6 volts.

Understanding the Maximum Charging Voltage for a 12V Battery

The maximum charging voltages vary for a 12-volt battery. 14.7 volts is the standard max charge voltage for a 12V lead-acid battery. 13.8 volts is the max charge voltage for a lead acid battery in continuous charging mode. For LFP, the max charge voltage of a 12V battery is 14.8 volts, and the max charge voltage of an NMC 12V battery is 12.6 volts. Thinking about using LFP or NMC batteries for your project? Don't miss our article, <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/lfp-versus-nmc-price">"Is LFP More Expensive Than NMC Batteries?"</a> to find out which option suits your budget best.<h2>Lead-Acid Batteries Charge Voltage</h2>Lead-acid batteries, commonly used in automobiles and <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/diy-powerwall">DIY powerwalls</a>, have a maximum charge voltage of 2.45 volts per cell. These batteries, however, are rarely found in single-cell configurations. A standard car battery, for instance, is a 6S (six <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/series-lithium-batteries">cells in series</a>) configuration, resulting in a maximum charge voltage of approximately 14.7 volts and a nominal voltage of 12 volts.&nbsp;There are two levels of charge for lead-acid batteries: the standard maximum charge and the float charge level. The float charge level, which is around 13.8 volts (2.3 volts per cell), is used for continuous charging applications, such as in systems that run and charge simultaneously. Using this charge level will ensure the longest overall lifespan for your lead acid batteries.For situations where the battery is not continuously charged, such as starting a car, the voltage can be increased to 2.45 volts per cell. In these situations, the highest possible voltage is needed. A tradeoff is made in terms of lifespan when the application has high current demands.&nbsp;<h2>Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) Batteries Charge Voltage</h2>Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries are a type of lithium-ion battery that uses lithium iron phosphate as the cathode material. They are well-known for their robustness, thermal stability, and safety, as well as their ability to align closely with the charging voltages of traditional lead-acid batteries. This makes LFP batteries an increasingly popular choice in applications where lead-acid batteries were traditionally used, such as in electric vehicles, solar energy storage, and backup power systems.The electrochemistry of LFP batteries allows for a stable output voltage throughout the discharge cycle. Each LFP cell has a <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/nominal-voltage">nominal voltage</a> of around 3.2 volts, which is lower than the nominal voltage of typical lithium-ion cells (usually around 3.6 to 3.7 volts). However, LFP cells can be safely charged up to a maximum of 3.7 volts. This characteristic makes them suitable for systems designed for 12-volt lead-acid batteries, as a 4-cell LFP battery configuration can provide a maximum voltage of 14.8 volts, closely matching the charging profile of a 12-volt lead-acid battery.<h2><figure data-trix-attachment="{&quot;contentType&quot;:&quot;image&quot;,&quot;height&quot;:313,&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/0-XojMy031Kt8pvDx6oXNiGpf06TzQMQuvjb8jy25q35O9N4YQSCY70rWLtEM5Ct5d2hu8w1s4K1ulbQr4cb-vIVy8_KPDPOLHSPzDXXtitlOXj_atXUzEOG4hGHV9qO8IsAVljq1RHTyC_zENdhkTE&quot;,&quot;width&quot;:624}" data-trix-content-type="image" class="attachment attachment--preview"><img src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/0-XojMy031Kt8pvDx6oXNiGpf06TzQMQuvjb8jy25q35O9N4YQSCY70rWLtEM5Ct5d2hu8w1s4K1ulbQr4cb-vIVy8_KPDPOLHSPzDXXtitlOXj_atXUzEOG4hGHV9qO8IsAVljq1RHTyC_zENdhkTE" width="624" height="313"><figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure>Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) Lithium-Ion Batteries Charge Voltage</h2>NMC lithium-ion batteries, which utilize a cathode material composed of nickel, manganese, and cobalt, pose specific challenges when attempting to create an effective 12-volt battery system. This is primarily due to their higher charge and discharge voltage characteristics <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/lifepo4-nmc-chemistry-comparison">compared to other lithium-ion chemistries, like Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP)</a>.Each NMC cell typically has a full charge voltage of 4.2 volts, which is the upper safe limit for the cell to be charged. On the discharge end, the minimum safe voltage is around 2.6 volts. Dropping below this voltage can cause irreversible damage to the cell. This voltage range presents a challenge for configuring these cells into a 12-volt battery system.When configuring these cells in series (denoted as 'S'), a 4S configuration (four cells in series) results in a maximum voltage of 16.8 volts (4.2 volts x 4 cells) when fully charged. This voltage significantly exceeds the nominal 12-volt range and is not suitable for systems designed for a traditional 12-volt battery.On the other hand, a 3S configuration (three cells in series) yields a more suitable maximum voltage of 12.6 volts (4.2 volts x 3 cells). However, this configuration encounters issues during actual use. The nominal voltage of an NMC cell is around 3.7 volts, which means that a 3S configuration starts with a nominal voltage of 11.1 volts (3.7 volts x 3 cells). This nominal voltage is already below the typical 12-volt range.Even though you can’t really make a good <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/number-18650-12v">18650 NMC 12 volt battery,</a> a 3S configuration comes the closest. So, the maximum charge voltage of an NMC 12V battery is 12.6 volts.The maximum charging voltages for different 12-volt batteries vary: 14.7 volts for lead-acid batteries in starting conditions, 13.8 volts for continuous charging, 14.8 volts for LFP batteries, and 12.6 volts for NMC lithium-ion batteries. Understanding these voltages is crucial for the optimal use and longevity of these batteries in various applications.In summary, understanding the maximum charge voltage of a 12V battery is essential for optimal use and longevity, whether you're working with lead-acid, LFP, or NMC batteries. Each type has its specific voltage requirements, with lead-acid batteries typically peaking at 14.7 volts, LFP batteries at 14.8 volts, and NMC batteries at 12.6 volts. Knowing these limits helps <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/lithium-cell-battery-safety">ensure safety, efficiency, and the durability of your battery systems</a> across various applications

Whats The Max Charge Voltage of a 12V Battery

Learn how to increase the power of your 12V battery by increasing its voltage with a boost converter, without altering the load. This guide explains the simple steps to effectively boost your battery's performance.

 Easy Tips to Boost Your 12V Battery Power

<a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/12v-increase-24v">To increase the power of a 12 volt battery</a>, you’re going to have to either increase its voltage or decrease the resistance of your load. So, without changing the load, the only way to increase power from a 12 volt battery is to increase its voltage. That means to increase the power of a 12 volt battery, <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/buck-boost-converters">you’re going to need a boost converter.</a>&nbsp;<h2>Ohm’s Law in Action: Calculating Current and Power</h2>Take a scenario where you have a 12-volt battery connected to a load with a resistance of 2 ohms. To figure out the current flowing through this setup, we can use Ohm’s Law, a fundamental principle in electronics. Ohm’s Law tells us that the current (I) equals the voltage (V) divided by the resistance (R). Plug in the numbers, and you get a current of 6 amps. Now, to calculate the power output, we use the formula: power (P) equals voltage times current (P = V * I). Do the math, and you’ll find that the power output is 72 watts.So, 72 watts is the fundamental upper limit of power in this situation, where we have a 12-volt battery and a 2-ohm load.&nbsp;<h2>The Role of Boost Converters: Upping the Voltage Game</h2>So, you want more power from your 12-volt battery without modifying the load? That’s what boost converters are for. This handy device takes the voltage of your 12-volt battery and steps it up. There is no such thing as a free lunch, though, so it has to ask for more current from the input power supply to maintain the higher voltage on the output.This is because like all other things, the boost converter must operate under the law of conservation of energy. It draws more current from the input (your battery) to increase the voltage at the output.&nbsp;For example, consider increasing the voltage of a 12V battery to 24V while powering a load that requires 2A.In this scenario, the output power needed for the load is calculated by multiplying the output voltage (24V) with the output current (2A). This results in an output power of 48 watts.However, a boost converter isn't 100% efficient. Assuming the converter operates at 90% efficiency, it will need more power from the input side (the battery) than what is delivered to the load. To find out how much current the battery needs to supply, we divide the output power by the product of the input voltage (12V) and the efficiency (90%). In this case, the battery needs to supply approximately 4.44 amps.So, to get 24V and 2A at the output (which is 48 watts of power), the 12V battery needs to supply about 4.44 amps, considering the efficiency losses of the boost converter.<figure data-trix-attachment="{&quot;contentType&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;filename&quot;:&quot;Make Sure Your 12 Volt Battery Can Handle The New Current Level.jpg&quot;,&quot;filesize&quot;:67854,&quot;height&quot;:370,&quot;href&quot;:&quot;https://admin.cellsaviors.com/storage/tn5f3QF2RqJxZx5nkvRDwUeQEB37TKYmsJUEtCXo.jpg&quot;,&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://admin.cellsaviors.com/storage/tn5f3QF2RqJxZx5nkvRDwUeQEB37TKYmsJUEtCXo.jpg&quot;,&quot;width&quot;:736}" data-trix-content-type="image/jpeg" data-trix-attributes="{&quot;presentation&quot;:&quot;gallery&quot;}" class="attachment attachment--preview attachment--jpg"><a href="https://admin.cellsaviors.com/storage/tn5f3QF2RqJxZx5nkvRDwUeQEB37TKYmsJUEtCXo.jpg"><img src="https://admin.cellsaviors.com/storage/tn5f3QF2RqJxZx5nkvRDwUeQEB37TKYmsJUEtCXo.jpg" width="736" height="370"><figcaption class="attachment__caption">Make Sure Your 12 Volt Battery Can Handle The New Current Level.jpg 66.26 KB</figcaption></a></figure>Make Sure Your 12 Volt Battery Can Handle The New Current LevelTo ensure that your 12V battery can handle the increased current required by a boost converter, you need to check the battery's current rating and capacity. The current rating, typically expressed in amperes (A), indicates the maximum current the battery can safely provide. If the required current exceeds this rating, the battery could overheat, degrade faster, or even fail, posing a safety risk.As far as the capacity, a higher current draw will deplete the battery faster, reducing its effective capacity. This means that while a boost converter can increase the voltage output, it also increases the current drawn from the battery, leading to quicker depletion. It important to understand <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/amp-hours-capacity">battery pack capacity</a> as it will be greatly effected through the use of a buck or boost converter.&nbsp;For example, if a battery rated at 12V and 10Ah is used to power a load through a boost converter (with an efficiency of 90%) that steps up the voltage to 24V for a 2A load, the battery will supply around 4.44A. Normally, this battery could deliver a lower current (say 2A) for 5 hours (10Ah / 2A). However, with the increased current draw of 4.44A, the battery would last approximately 2.25 hours (10Ah / 4.44A), assuming ideal conditions.In conclusion, boosting the power of your 12V battery using a boost converter is a practical solution, but it requires careful consideration of the increased current demand and its effects on the battery's health and lifespan. By monitoring the battery's temperature, voltage, and overall condition, and adhering to safety precautions, you can safely enhance your battery's performance while ensuring its longevity. <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/lithium-cell-battery-safety">Always prioritize safety and efficiency</a> to make the most out of your electrical projects.

How Can I Increase The Power Of My 12v Battery

Nickel strips are perfect for battery packs because they can handle high heat, resist rust, and are strong yet flexible. Plus, they're cost-effective, which makes them a smart choice for building durable and reliable battery packs.

Why Nickel Strips Are Ideal for Battery Packs

When it comes to <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/building-a-battery-pack-from-18650-cells">constructing battery packs</a>, material selection is super important for optimizing performance, longevity, and safety. Out of all the materials available, nickel is the primary material used to make battery packs. So, why do you use nickel strips for battery packs?<a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/how-to-size-wire-fuses-and-nickel-strip-for-a-lithium-battery-pack">Nickel strips are used in battery packs</a> because they are thermally stable, they have a high degree of corrosion resistance. Nickel strips also have a high tensile strength and ductility, and it’s cheap.&nbsp;<h2>Nickel Strip Thermal Stability and Safety</h2>Nickel exhibits excellent thermal stability, which is paramount for maintaining battery performance and safety. Its ability to withstand elevated temperatures without compromising structural integrity reduces the risk of thermal runaway, a phenomenon associated with overheating in batteries. So, this means that nickel can get really, really hot before it melts. This property ensures the reliability and safety of battery packs, particularly during demanding operating conditions.<h2>Nickel Corrosion Resistance and Longevity</h2>Unlike copper, nickel is known to be essentially corrosion-proof. In fact, one of nickel's most significant properties is its exceptional resistance to corrosion. This resistance minimizes degradation and ensures prolonged battery life, making nickel an attractive choice for manufacturers aiming to deliver reliable and long-lasting energy storage solutions.&nbsp;It’s important to consider, however, that the series conductor is generally not exposed in a battery pack. This is because battery packs are usually wrapped with several layers of tape and PVC. Air can still get in there, though, so having a material that doesn’t corrode is still important for the longest possible longevity. This is even more true if you live near the ocean or in some other highly salty environment.&nbsp;<h2>Mechanical Properties and Structural Integrity of Nickel Strip</h2>Nickel possesses favorable mechanical properties, including high tensile strength and excellent ductility, which contribute to the structural integrity of battery packs. These properties are particularly crucial in applications where batteries may undergo mechanical stress or vibrations, <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/build-ebike-battery">such as in e-bike batteries</a>. This is important for batteries in high-vibration environments. In these situations, nickel's mechanical resilience ensures the reliability and performance of battery packs under varying conditions.In contrast, copper is a very soft and highly pliable material. So, even though copper is a much better conductor than nickel, using copper will cause your battery pack to miss out on the added structural integrity provided by nickel.&nbsp;<h2>Nickels Compatibility and Enhanced Performance</h2>Nickel's compatibility with other battery materials enhances its suitability for battery pack construction. When combined inside the cell with elements like lithium, cobalt, and nickel forms cathode materials with high energy density, enabling greater storage capacity within limited space. Outside of the battery, nickel can easily be<a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/soldering-vs-spot-welding-lithium"> soldered or welded</a> without having to worry about how the nickel is going to react to the process. This compatibility results in more powerful batteries that are easier to build than they would be if another material was used.&nbsp;<figure data-trix-attachment="{&quot;contentType&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;filename&quot;:&quot;Why do you use nickel strips for battery packs.jpg&quot;,&quot;filesize&quot;:41463,&quot;height&quot;:370,&quot;href&quot;:&quot;https://admin.cellsaviors.com/storage/zqJjay7VG49eRBeneXUqhuADbsPKQc8nJSkctUWI.jpg&quot;,&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://admin.cellsaviors.com/storage/zqJjay7VG49eRBeneXUqhuADbsPKQc8nJSkctUWI.jpg&quot;,&quot;width&quot;:736}" data-trix-content-type="image/jpeg" data-trix-attributes="{&quot;presentation&quot;:&quot;gallery&quot;}" class="attachment attachment--preview attachment--jpg"><a href="https://admin.cellsaviors.com/storage/zqJjay7VG49eRBeneXUqhuADbsPKQc8nJSkctUWI.jpg"><img src="https://admin.cellsaviors.com/storage/zqJjay7VG49eRBeneXUqhuADbsPKQc8nJSkctUWI.jpg" width="736" height="370"><figcaption class="attachment__caption">Why do you use nickel strips for battery packs.jpg 40.49 KB</figcaption></a></figure><h2>Economic Viability of Nickel</h2>From an economic standpoint, nickel's abundance and relatively low cost compared to alternative materials make it economically viable for large-scale battery production. Its widespread availability ensures a stable supply chain, mitigating concerns related to material scarcity or price volatility. This economic advantage further reinforces nickel's role as a preferred material in battery pack construction. So, if you are still wondering why you use nickel strips for battery packs, it’s due to their exceptional thermal stability, corrosion resistance, mechanical strength, and low cost. The ability of nickel strips to withstand high temperatures enhances safety by minimizing the risk of thermal runaway. The corrosion resistance of nickel strips helps ensure longevity, particularly in salty environments. Nickel's mechanical properties contribute to the structural integrity of battery packs, making them reliable under various heavy-duty conditions.&nbsp;<h2>Using Nickel With Copper</h2>Integrating copper into battery pack construction alongside nickel can indeed offer a "best of both worlds" approach, leveraging the superior conductivity of copper while still benefiting from the structural integrity and other advantageous properties of nickel. This method often involves a technique known as the "<a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/copper-nickel-sandwich">copper-nickel sandwich.</a>"Copper is well-known for its exceptional conductivity, far surpassing that of nickel. By incorporating copper into the battery pack design, manufacturers can enhance the overall efficiency of energy transfer within the cells, thus improving performance.The copper-nickel sandwich technique typically involves <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/spot-weld-battery">spot welding</a> a layer of nickel on top of a layer of copper, creating a composite strip that combines the strengths of both materials. This secondary weld bonds the copper layer to the cell, ensuring reliable electrical connectivity while still benefiting from the thermal stability, corrosion resistance, and mechanical resilience of nickel.This approach allows you to optimize the <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/battery-pack-designer">design of battery packs</a>, balancing electrical conductivity with structural integrity and safety considerations. By strategically incorporating copper-nickel sandwiches into the construction of battery packs, manufacturers or DIYers can achieve enhanced performance and longevity while maintaining cost-effectiveness.We hope this article informed you on exactly why nickel strips are used for battery packs. Thanks for reading!

Why Do You Use Nickel Strips For Battery Packs

creating-a-simple-battery-level-indicator

Discover how to make a simple battery level indicator using an ESP32 microcontroller, a voltage divider, and LEDs. This easy-to-follow guide will walk you through each step to create an effective tool for monitoring your battery's power levels.

Guide to Making a Simple Battery Level Indicator

In the world of electronics, monitoring a battery's level is a critical part of the process. There are several ways to achieve this, but one particularly efficient way is to use an ESP32 microcontroller, a voltage divider, and a set of LEDs. This article will guide you through the process of building a basic yet effective <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/understanding-battery-level-indicators">battery level indicator</a> using these components.<h2>Using ESP32 Microcontroller for Battery Voltage Level</h2>The ESP32 is a versatile microcontroller with numerous features, one of which is its ability to read analog voltages through its analog pins. These pins can read voltages in the range of 0 to 3.3 volts. However, it's important to understand that the ESP32 does not directly output the voltage value in its readings. Instead, it converts the analog voltage into a digital value ranging from 0 to 4095, based on its 10-bit Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC).For example, a reading of 4095 corresponds to 3.3 volts, while a reading of 2048 represents approximately 1.66 volts, which is half of 3.3 volts. This conversion is crucial for understanding how to interpret the signals from the ESP32. One noteworthy point is that the ESP32’s analog-to-digital conversion is known to be nonlinear, especially at lower voltage levels, which can be a consideration in precision-dependent applications. For this application, however, it won't be a problem at all.&nbsp;<h3>The Need For a Voltage Divider</h3>To <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/battery-capacity-test">measure battery voltages</a>, especially those higher than 3.3 volts (such as a fully charged single cell at 4.2 volts), a voltage divider is essential to prevent damage to the microcontroller. A voltage divider is a simple circuit element that divides the input voltage based on the ratio of two resistors. It consists of an input, output, and ground connection.In a basic setup with two equal resistors, the voltage divider would halve the input voltage. For example, if you input 12 volts, the output in the middle of the two resistors would be 6 volts. This division is based on Ohm’s law, with the voltage split according to the resistors' proportions.<h3>Designing a Voltage Divider for Higher Voltages</h3>For applications requiring the monitoring of higher battery voltages, such as up to 84 volts, the resistance ratio in the voltage divider needs to be adjusted accordingly. After some experimentation, it’s determined that a top resistance of 242 kilo-ohms and a bottom resistance of 10 kilo-ohms yields a maximum output voltage of about 3.27 volts, which is within the safe reading range of the ESP32.<h3>Implementing the Battery Level Indicator</h3>To create a basic program for controlling the four status LEDs based on the battery level read by the ESP32, you'll follow several key steps. These include setting up the ESP32, reading the voltage, calculating the battery level, and then controlling the LEDs based on this level. Here's a guide to help you through the process:<ul><li>Setup and Initialization:<ul><li>Start by initializing the GPIO pins connected to the LEDs as output pins.</li><li>Initialize the analog pin connected to the voltage divider as an input pin.</li></ul></li><li>Reading Battery Voltage:<ul><li>Use the analogRead() function to read the voltage from the voltage divider.</li><li>Map this reading to the actual voltage using the formula actualVoltage = readValue * (3.3 / 4095).</li><li>Adjust this formula based on your voltage divider's specific scaling factor to get the real battery voltage.</li></ul></li><li>Calculating Battery Percentage:<ul><li>Determine the voltage levels corresponding to 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% of your battery's capacity.</li><li>Convert these voltage levels to their respective ADC readings.</li><li>Compare the current reading with these thresholds to determine the battery level.</li></ul></li><li>Controlling the LEDs:<ul><li>Based on the calculated battery percentage, control the LEDs:<ul><li>0-25%: Turn on only the first LED.</li><li>26-50%: Turn on the first two LEDs.</li><li>51-75%: Turn on the first three LEDs.</li><li>76-100%: Turn on all four LEDs.</li></ul></li></ul></li><li>Loop:<ul><li>Continuously read the battery voltage and update the LED status accordingly.</li></ul></li><li>The Code:</li></ul>Here's a basic outline of what your Arduino battery level code might look like:// Define LED and analog pinint ledPins[] = {5, 18, 19, 21}; // Replace with your ESP32 GPIO pin numbersint analogPin = 34; // Replace with your analog pin numbervoid setup() {&nbsp; // Initialize LED pins as output&nbsp; for (int i = 0; i &lt; 4; i++) {&nbsp; &nbsp; pinMode(ledPins[i], OUTPUT);&nbsp; }&nbsp; // Initialize analog pin as input&nbsp; pinMode(analogPin, INPUT);}void loop() {&nbsp; // Read battery voltage&nbsp; int value = analogRead(analogPin);&nbsp; float batteryVoltage = map(value, 0, 4095, 0, 84); // Map the analog reading to a voltage between 0 and 84 volts&nbsp; // Determine battery level&nbsp; int batteryLevel = calculateBatteryLevel(batteryVoltage);&nbsp; // Update LEDs based on battery level&nbsp; updateLEDs(batteryLevel);&nbsp; // Add a delay for stability&nbsp; delay(1000);}int calculateBatteryLevel(float voltage) {&nbsp; if (voltage &gt;= 80.0 &amp;&amp; voltage &lt;= 84.0) {&nbsp; &nbsp; return 3; // 80V - 84V (4 bars)&nbsp; } else if (voltage &gt;= 75.0 &amp;&amp; voltage &lt; 80.0) {&nbsp; &nbsp; return 2; // 75V - 79.9V (3 bars)&nbsp; } else if (voltage &gt;= 70.0 &amp;&amp; voltage &lt; 75.0) {&nbsp; &nbsp; return 1; // 70V - 74.9V (2 bars)&nbsp; } else if (voltage &gt;= 58.0 &amp;&amp; voltage &lt; 70.0) {&nbsp; &nbsp; return 0; // 58V - 69.9V (1 bar)&nbsp; } else {&nbsp; &nbsp; return -1; // Invalid voltage&nbsp; }}void updateLEDs(int level) {&nbsp; for (int i = 0; i &lt; 4; i++) {&nbsp; &nbsp; if (i &lt;= level) {&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; digitalWrite(ledPins[i], HIGH);&nbsp; &nbsp; } else {&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; digitalWrite(ledPins[i], LOW);&nbsp; &nbsp; }&nbsp; }}<h2>ESP32 Battery Level Monitor Limitations</h2>The ESP32 microcontroller, while a versatile and powerful tool for various projects, does have some limitations when it comes to its Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) pins. Understanding these limitations is crucial for applications where precise analog voltage measurements are essential.<h3>Non-Linearity of ESP32 ADC Pins</h3> The ADC of the ESP32 is known for its non-linear behavior, especially at lower voltage levels. This means that the conversion of analog voltage to digital values is not a straightforward linear process. For example, at lower voltages, the increment in digital values might not correspond proportionately to the increment in actual voltage. This irregularity can cause inaccuracies in measurements.<h3>Impact on The Battery Level Indicator</h3>In the context of creating a battery level indicator, this non-linearity implies that the voltage readings might not be entirely precise but it will be just as accurate as any other basic 4-dot display indicating general battery levels (such as 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%). This degree of accuracy is more than enough for most applications.&nbsp;<h3>Overcoming The Limitations</h3>For applications requiring more accurate voltage readings, using an external ADC like the ADS1115 instead of the ESP32's built-in ADC is advisable.Higher Precision: The ADS1115 is a 16-bit ADC, offering significantly higher precision compared to the ESP32's 10-bit ADC. This means it can detect finer variations in voltage, leading to more accurate readings.Linear Response: The ADS1115 tends to have a more linear response across its entire range. This characteristic ensures that the conversion from analog to digital is more consistent, thereby providing more reliable readings.Application in Battery Monitoring: When precision in battery voltage measurement is crucial, integrating an ADS1115 with the ESP32 for your battery level indicator project can yield much more accurate results. This is especially relevant in scenarios where battery voltage needs to be monitored with high accuracy, such as in critical power management systems.<figure data-trix-attachment="{&quot;contentType&quot;:&quot;image&quot;,&quot;height&quot;:285,&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/bTmcnFIsl8FxYeuu3E-PTht7afiurpdEc9mxmOf7YpPTeCvb1BoMjNhFnvWr0AyavQhQIOfbfdkWv4JzCO8Tfmq3fMx22bNKCpM0LHtZqIelsfiaFe5qvFfn2euOXmkelMOFp2VgxGlkfr6rLoOqXKI&quot;,&quot;width&quot;:568}" data-trix-content-type="image" class="attachment attachment--preview"><img src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/bTmcnFIsl8FxYeuu3E-PTht7afiurpdEc9mxmOf7YpPTeCvb1BoMjNhFnvWr0AyavQhQIOfbfdkWv4JzCO8Tfmq3fMx22bNKCpM0LHtZqIelsfiaFe5qvFfn2euOXmkelMOFp2VgxGlkfr6rLoOqXKI" width="568" height="285"><figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure>Battery Level Meter, Honestly Just Buy OneBefore making one of these, it's important to consider the practical aspects. In the realm of electronics, especially for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts, the balance between <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/building-a-battery-pack-from-18650-cells">building a DIY battery pack</a> and purchasing a prebuilt is is important to consider. When it comes to battery level indicators, this decision becomes particularly relevant due to the wide availability and affordability of pre-made options on the market. For example with large home-based battery systems, you can look at several <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/powerwall-monitor">powerwall monitoring</a> options and there is no reason these devices couldn't be used on other batteries.Cost-Effectiveness: One of the primary reasons to opt for a pre-made battery level indicator is cost. These devices are often available at a fraction of the cost of sourcing individual components like the ESP32, resistors, and LEDs. The economies of scale in manufacturing allow these products to be sold at very competitive prices.Variety and Features: The market is flooded with a myriad of battery level indicators, each offering different features and specifications. From basic LED displays to more sophisticated ones with LCD or OLED screens, the choices are abundant. This variety allows users to find a product that closely matches their specific needs and preferences.Time and Effort: Building a battery level indicator from scratch, while educational and fulfilling, requires a significant investment of time and effort. For those who need a quick and efficient solution without the learning curve or the time spent in assembly and troubleshooting, buying a pre-made indicator is a sensible choice.<h3>Conclusion</h3>Creating a simple battery level indicator with an ESP32, a voltage divider, and four LEDs offers a practical and efficient way to monitor battery power levels. By applying the principles of voltage division and leveraging the ESP32's ADC capabilities, users can accurately determine the remaining power in their batteries. The detailed explanation of Ohm's law, along with the step-by-step guide for setting up the voltage divider, makes the process accessible even to beginners.Also, the provided code simplifies the implementation, allowing enthusiasts and hobbyists to easily build and integrate this indicator into their projects. This project not only serves as a functional tool but also illustrates the versatility and capability of the ESP32 in creating practical electronic devices.&nbsp;

How Do You Make a Simple Battery Level Indicator

Learn the right way to hook up dual batteries to enhance power and lifespan in vehicles, boats, and bikes, while ensuring safety and compatibility.

Guide to Hooking Up Dual Batteries

Hooking up dual batteries is a common procedure in various applications, including vehicles, boats, and electric bikes. The process can enhance the capacity, stability, and longevity. However, it's important to understand the correct methods to connect dual batteries to avoid potential risks and ensure efficient performance. You essentially have two options, <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/series-vs-parallel">putting them in parallel or in series</a>.<h2>Understanding Battery Basics</h2>Before getting into the methods of <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/dual-battery-ebike">connecting dual batteries</a>, it's important to grasp some fundamental concepts about batteries. A great example of how beneficial this can be is hooking up dual batteries on your ebike; you can double your range. The two critical factors to consider when pairing batteries are voltage and capacity. Voltage refers to the electrical potential difference, while capacity is about the amount of charge a battery can hold. Ensuring that the batteries you intend to connect have similar voltages and capacities is crucial for a safe and effective setup.<h2>Hooking Dual Batteries Up in Parallel</h2>The simplest method to <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/parallel-lithium-batteries">connect two batteries is in parallel</a>. This approach is ideal when the batteries have the same voltage and capacity and are in a similar condition. To hook up batteries in parallel, connect the positive terminal of one battery to the positive terminal of the other and do the same with the negative terminals. This configuration doubles the capacity while keeping the voltage the same.However, a critical aspect to consider is the voltage difference between the batteries. They should be within 0.1 volts of each other before connection. If there's a significant voltage difference, a large, unregulated current might flow from the higher-voltage battery to the lower one, causing a rapid and potentially dangerous discharge and charge process.<h2><figure data-trix-attachment="{&quot;contentType&quot;:&quot;image&quot;,&quot;height&quot;:233,&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/MFw2R9HfaSVDfdii_wXmQTAEG2DOe4upy-erAoVRyDwmMtgdq2995MDVQ_EYUCMGdJAhyS89Bt9A6fMZ_EyN3XhIV1j1S4cRPH83vwkS6IWBOw2PfYQfTLnIySoLsEZzR85FMI_0lR5_ooCxEoimtQI&quot;,&quot;width&quot;:464}" data-trix-content-type="image" class="attachment attachment--preview"><img src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/MFw2R9HfaSVDfdii_wXmQTAEG2DOe4upy-erAoVRyDwmMtgdq2995MDVQ_EYUCMGdJAhyS89Bt9A6fMZ_EyN3XhIV1j1S4cRPH83vwkS6IWBOw2PfYQfTLnIySoLsEZzR85FMI_0lR5_ooCxEoimtQI" width="464" height="233"><figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure>Hooking Dual Batteries Up in Series</h2>When <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/balance-lithium-batteries-series">connecting two batteries with a Battery Management System (BMS) in series</a>, extra caution is needed. The BMS in each battery is designed to manage charging and discharging, as well as ensure cell balance and temperature control. However, in a <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/series-lithium-batteries">series configuration</a>, where the voltages of the batteries combine, the failure of one battery can pose a significant risk. For example, if two 12V batteries are linked in series, the total voltage is 24V. Should one battery fail, this entire voltage could be applied across the MOSFETs in the dead battery's BMS, potentially exceeding their voltage ratings and leading to failure.Exceeding the MOSFETs' voltage limits can cause serious issues, ranging from malfunction to severe cases like overheating or thermal runaway. It's important to regularly monitor the health and state of charge of each battery. Using batteries of similar age, capacity, and wear can help ensure they degrade at a similar rate, reducing the risk of one battery failing prematurely in the series arrangement. Deep discharges should be avoided to further minimize the likelihood of battery failure.To enhance safety and reliability, consider using additional protective circuitry or a BMS designed for series connections capable of handling the combined voltage. Alternatively, selecting batteries and BMS units specifically designed for series use can provide built-in safeguards against these risks. By adhering to these precautions, the integrity and <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/lithium-cell-battery-safety">safety of the battery system</a> can be substantially improved.<h2>Using a Constant Current Boost Converter</h2>Another method to connect dual batteries, especially when they have different voltages, is through a constant current boost converter. This technique is particularly useful for applications like electric bikes, where you might have a primary 48-volt battery and a secondary 24-volt auxiliary battery.In this setup, you place a constant current boost converter between the lower voltage (24-volt) battery and the higher voltage (48-volt) battery. You can set the converter to a specific current, say 4 amps. As the primary battery is used, the secondary battery will continuously charge it, effectively increasing the range and reducing voltage sag. The boost converter elevates the lower voltage of the auxiliary battery to match the primary battery, ensuring a steady and safe power supply.<h2>Implementing a Constant Current Buck Converter</h2>Conversely, a constant current buck converter can be used when you want to step down the voltage from a higher voltage battery to supplement a lower voltage battery. This method is less common but can be effective in specific scenarios.For example, if you have a 36-volt main battery and a 48-volt auxiliary battery, you can use a constant current buck converter to reduce the voltage from the secondary battery to charge the primary one. This method helps maintain the charge of the lower voltage battery, ensuring that it contributes effectively to the overall power supply.<h2>Safety and Maintenance Considerations</h2>When hooking up dual batteries, safety is obviously super important. Always ensure that the batteries are in good condition and that the connections are secure. Regularly check the batteries for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. It's also important to <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/lithium-battery-charging">use compatible chargers</a> and converters designed for the specific type of batteries you are using. And remember, if you are connecting batteries in parallel, make sure they are at the same voltage before you connect them!

How Do You Hook Up Dual Batteries

Discover the main reasons behind Battery Management System (BMS) failures, from design flaws to misconfiguration. Learn how to prevent these issues and keep your battery systems running smoothly.

BMS Failure Common Causes and Signs

A BMS failure can stem from a variety of issues, from poor design and misconfiguration to external factors related to battery cell types and their arrangement. By understanding these causes and taking preventative measures, we can ensure the longevity and reliability of our battery-powered systems, keeping our devices running smoothly and safely.Battery Management Systems (BMS) are the unsung heroes of the battery world, ensuring our devices and vehicles run smoothly by managing the battery's charge, discharge, and <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/testing-and-grading-lithium-ion-cells">overall health</a>. However, like any other component, a BMS can fail, and understanding why can help us prevent future failures. Failure doesn't always mean a catastrophic event; it could be as simple as the BMS no longer performing one of its key functions, such as cell balancing or enabling battery charging. Let's dive into what causes these critical systems to fail, distinguishing between simpler, "non-smart" BMS and their more complex, "smart" counterparts.<h2>Common Failures by BMS Type: Simple vs. Smart</h2><h3>Simple BMS Failures: Bad Design and Overrating</h3>At the heart of simpler, non-smart BMS failures are two main issues: poor design and overrating their capabilities. A poorly designed BMS might be sold with claims it can handle more current than it truly can, leading to overheating and failure. For example, a BMS advertised to handle 20 amps of charge current may only have a single MOSFET (Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor) capable of managing 6 amps. This <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/fake-battery-signs">discrepancy between marketing claims and reality</a> can lead to failures when the BMS is pushed to its advertised limits, resulting in overheated MOSFETs and eventual system failure. Also, if the cells managed by the BMS are too far out of balance, the passive balancing capabilities of a simpler BMS may not be sufficient. That can lead to the cells going drastically out of balance. That, of course, isn’t exactly the fault of the BMS, but it does highlight its <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/active-passive-balancing">limitations of passive balancing</a>.<figure data-trix-attachment="{&quot;contentType&quot;:&quot;image&quot;,&quot;height&quot;:294,&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/Oah7inocrU3_X16oFLqVM7vUUeya_0c6SYhqNmAicK2qKTX6JLfzQd8bAXFm5OweQCoS2Qy3hvp-wLs-FizR7YF_8ncwUlOHPst5Ii_PNw3xI9P4vNpX9pISDRV9eQ5yTmgX0E-u1PILfmIGZdALWDQ&quot;,&quot;width&quot;:587}" data-trix-content-type="image" class="attachment attachment--preview"><img src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/Oah7inocrU3_X16oFLqVM7vUUeya_0c6SYhqNmAicK2qKTX6JLfzQd8bAXFm5OweQCoS2Qy3hvp-wLs-FizR7YF_8ncwUlOHPst5Ii_PNw3xI9P4vNpX9pISDRV9eQ5yTmgX0E-u1PILfmIGZdALWDQ" width="587" height="294"><figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure><h3>Smart BMS Failures: Misconfiguration and Power Draw</h3>Moving on to the more complex, smart BMS, these systems offer configurability and the ability to handle more current. However, this sophistication comes with its own set of challenges. Misconfiguration is a common pitfall; for instance, setting a BMS to handle a discharge current higher than its capabilities can lead to burnt-out MOSFETs and system failure. Additionally, smart BMSs tend to draw more power than their simpler counterparts. If a battery is left unused for extended periods, the continuous power draw of a smart BMS can deplete the battery to levels where the <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/wake-up-bms">BMS can no longer function, essentially "putting it to sleep."</a> This state, while reversible, renders the battery useless unless addressed.<h2>BMS Failure Contributing Factors</h2>It's also important to consider the battery cells themselves and their configuration. Different <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/safest-chemistry-cells">cell types have various disadvantages and safety profiles</a> that can impact BMS performance. For instance, pouch cell batteries are known for their fragility and risk of explosion, factors that can complicate BMS management. Similarly, how cells are configured, such as in series or parallel arrangements, can influence the BMS's effectiveness and risk profile. For example, <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/series-lithium-batteries#google_vignette">connecting lithium batteries in series</a> without considering the BMS's capabilities can lead to over-volting and failure​​.<h2>Preventing BMS Failure</h2>Understanding <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/bms-lithium-batteries">how to choose the right BMS</a>, its limitations and proper configurations are super important in preventing failures. For simpler BMS, ensuring the system is not overstressed and that cells are well-balanced is key. For smart BMS, proper configuration according to the manufacturer's specifications and <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/testing-and-grading-lithium-ion-cells">regular monitoring to prevent deep discharge</a> are vital steps. Additionally, <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/pick-best-cells-battery">choosing the right type of battery cells</a>, considering their safety profiles and suitability for the application is paramount.We hope this article helped you learn all about what causes a BMS to fail, thanks for reading!

What causes BMS to fail

Is it better to store lithium batteries charged or uncharged

Find out how to store lithium-ion batteries properly to keep them working well. Learn why keeping them at a nominal voltage level is important to the health of the cell.

The Best Way to Store Your Lithium Batteries

Storing lithium-ion batteries at a charge level around their <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/nominal-voltage">nominal voltage</a>, approximately 3.6 to 3.7 volts, is considered the optimal practice for extending their lifespan and maintaining performance. This middle-ground approach mitigates the risks associated with storing batteries at full charge, which can accelerate wear due to increased self-discharge rates, and the dangers of fully discharged, which can lead to irreversible damage in the event that voltage drops below a safe threshold.By storing batteries in this "Goldilocks zone", you ensure that they remain in a safe and stable state, which minimizes stress and <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/lithium-batteries-degradation">degradation over time</a>. Additionally, it's crucial to store batteries away from extreme temperatures and humidity, regularly check their voltage, and use a smart charger to maintain them at the ideal storage charge, aligning with best practices for battery health and longevity.<h2>The Chemistry of Charge: To Store Charged or Not?</h2>When a lithium-ion battery is fully charged, it operates at its peak potential. For a single cell, this means a voltage of 4.2 volts, and for a 3S battery configuration, it equates to 12.6 volts. At this state, every cell, regardless of its make or age, undergoes a natural process known as internal self-discharge. This phenomenon is an inevitable consequence of the imperfect manufacturing processes of lithium-ion batteries, leading to minor energy transfers between the battery's positive and negative electrodes.<h3>The Problem with Storing Fully Charge</h3>As batteries age or sustain damage, the rate of self-discharge increases, significantly impacting performance. This degradation occurs because the internal resistance, which ideally should be infinitely high, is merely very high, allowing for some energy leakage based on the battery's voltage and resistance levels. <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/lithium-battery-storage">Storing lithium batteries</a> at full charge exacerbates this issue by keeping cells at a more reactive voltage range than necessary, thus potentially accelerating wear.<figure data-trix-attachment="{&quot;contentType&quot;:&quot;image&quot;,&quot;height&quot;:288,&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/TGmi-Mh6lcSNMvAHTdxtsmPhUbsXtKPp4a4ah-TAVnrBVzfown-ah84sQVZ5WE4z5BbV5MAAK7OC6a7TfPnJ4We87AkoJIjhGnybDZxNQhD7wMyh_RkRVZpKfmbIE7i6EEXFf2zdlgUv8agC-csgkOg&quot;,&quot;width&quot;:573}" data-trix-content-type="image" class="attachment attachment--preview"><img src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/TGmi-Mh6lcSNMvAHTdxtsmPhUbsXtKPp4a4ah-TAVnrBVzfown-ah84sQVZ5WE4z5BbV5MAAK7OC6a7TfPnJ4We87AkoJIjhGnybDZxNQhD7wMyh_RkRVZpKfmbIE7i6EEXFf2zdlgUv8agC-csgkOg" width="573" height="288"><figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure><h3>The Risks of Storing Fully Discharged</h3>On the other hand, storing batteries in a fully discharged state (around 2.8 volts, near the low voltage cutoff) also poses risks. Over time, the battery's voltage naturally declines, and if left unchecked, can drop below safe thresholds, leading to irreversible damage. This is particularly problematic if the battery is left connected to any device, as even the slightest parasitic load can hasten voltage decline. It is possible to <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/recover-low-voltage-cells-batteries">revive low voltage cells</a> but in some cases, you cannot, and in all cases, some internal damage will have taken place.<h2>The Goldilocks Zone: Storing at Nominal Voltage</h2>The consensus among battery experts suggests that the <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/best-battery-storage-voltage">optimal storage voltage for lithium-ion batteries</a> lies just above their nominal voltage of 3.7 volts. Storing batteries at around 3.8 to 3.9 volts strikes a balance, ensuring that even after natural discharge, the battery remains within a safe voltage range conducive to long-term storage. This practice mitigates the risks associated with both full charge and complete discharge, ensuring the battery remains in a stable state.<h3>Why Nominal is Optimal</h3>At nominal voltage, lithium-ion batteries reside in the safest and most stable portion of their charge curve. This means that over time, the battery's voltage will likely settle in the vicinity of 3.7 volts, a level that poses minimal risk to the battery's health and longevity, assuming it's stored under appropriate conditions (away from direct sunlight and high humidity environments).<h2>Practical Tips for Battery Storage</h2>Avoid Extreme Conditions: Regardless of the charge level, always store your batteries away from extreme temperatures and humidity to prevent unnecessary stress and degradation. For more tips on keeping your batteries warm, check out <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/lithium-batteries-warm">How To Keep Batteries Warm.</a>Regular Check-ups: Periodically check the voltage of stored batteries to ensure they remain within safe limits. This is especially crucial for batteries stored for extended periods.&nbsp;Consider Usage Plans: If you plan to use the battery soon, storing it closer to full charge may be practical. However, if long-term storage is intended, aim for the nominal voltage range to optimize longevity.&nbsp;Use a Smart Charger: Invest in a charger capable of setting specific voltages so that you can accurately bring your batteries to the ideal storage voltage. Take a look at our&nbsp;<a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/18650-21700-chargers-testers">Best Cell Tester And Chargers 18650/21700</a>&nbsp;article&nbsp;for some options of charges that will hold cells at storage voltage.By adhering to these guidelines, users can significantly extend the lifespan and maintain the performance of their lithium-ion batteries, ensuring they deliver reliable power when needed. Understanding and respecting the delicate chemistry of these batteries is key to maximizing their potential and safety.

Is It Better To Store Lithium Batteries Charged or Uncharged

Find out how battery level indicators tell us how much power is left, using easy-to-understand visuals. Learn how they work, even when the battery's power doesn't drop in a straight line, to keep us informed before we need to recharge

Understanding Battery Charge Level Indicators

When it comes to lithium-ion batteries, understanding the state of charge based on voltage alone is a bit like trying to find your way in the dark without a flashlight. Sure, you know if you're fully charged at <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/min-max-voltage-18650">4.2 volts or empty at the low voltage cutoff around 2.8 volts</a>, but the journey between these two points? That's where it gets murky.A Lithium-ion battery’s voltage does not simply fall linearly. Instead, its voltage drops pretty quickly when being used from a full charge. Then, it reaches somewhat of a plateau where the voltage drops slowly. Then, at the end of the discharge curve, the voltage falls rapidly again. This makes it a bit tricky to nail down the exact percentage of charge left just by looking at the voltage.&nbsp;Also, you can probably tell how charged your ebike is just by how it performs when accelerating. It's like trying to guess the RPM of your engine by how it sounds; you can get a rough idea, but wouldn't a tachometer be a more reliable indicator? If you're interested in constructing your own bike battery, you check out our guide on <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/build-ebike-battery">How To Build A Lithium Ion Ebike Battery</a>.This is where battery level indicators come into play, acting as our much-needed gauge. These clever little devices give us a visual or numerical representation of how much juice we've got left before needing a recharge. But if the voltage curve of lithium-ion batteries is as nonlinear as a mountain road, how do these indicators manage to give us a reading?<h2>Battery Level Indicator: Simplification Tactic</h2>Most battery level indicators sidestep the complex reality of voltage curves by pretending things are simpler than they are. They operate under the assumption that the battery's voltage drops linearly with use. While this method is not perfectly accurate. For example, it may indicate a 50% charge when your battery might actually be somewhere between 30% to 60%. Even considering this limitation, a simple solution like this is surprisingly effective for most practical purposes.<figure data-trix-attachment="{&quot;contentType&quot;:&quot;image&quot;,&quot;height&quot;:303,&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/yaVeauW_lzi0JAZNFC63fCQvRnECUPy42bddag_lsatnUMH8hWjV1A0molWsQqYLd7lEScftrGRjN2eBMqieLDg2Ly2Ac31tIw0WvUvfjZ063cWnj_zi6xYta0kEVrdfhV3N6N_NvjmusAE7SqGvlAY&quot;,&quot;width&quot;:624}" data-trix-content-type="image" class="attachment attachment--preview"><img src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/yaVeauW_lzi0JAZNFC63fCQvRnECUPy42bddag_lsatnUMH8hWjV1A0molWsQqYLd7lEScftrGRjN2eBMqieLDg2Ly2Ac31tIw0WvUvfjZ063cWnj_zi6xYta0kEVrdfhV3N6N_NvjmusAE7SqGvlAY" width="624" height="303"><figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure>These indicators use the battery's voltage and map it out across a series of LEDs or other display elements. Each LED represents a specific charge level milestone such as 25%, 50%, 75%, and so on. Some indicators might get a bit more sophisticated, using colors or varying the number of lights to give a more granular look at the battery's state.<h2>Beyond Simple Voltage Reading: Coulomb Counting</h2>For those seeking precision, there's a more advanced technique called coulomb counting. This method doesn't just consider the voltage; but it also takes into account the current flowing in and out of the battery, calculating the total charge transferred over time. By tracking how many "coulombs" of charge have been used or replenished, these indicators can offer a much more accurate picture of the battery's state of charge.Coulomb counting requires a bit of digital brainpower, typically in the form of a microcontroller, and some custom algorithms to account for the battery's behavior. It's like having a smart fuel gauge that learns how your car consumes gas over different routes and adjusts its readings accordingly.<h2>The Truth About Battery Guages</h2>No matter the method, it's super important to understand that all battery level indicators are approximations. The very nature of <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/best-battery-chemistry#google_vignette">battery chemistry</a>, combined with the variety of use cases and conditions, means that achieving perfect accuracy is a tall order. Even the highest-end indicators require calibration and adjustment at some point.<h2>How to Make Your Own Battery Level Indicator</h2>For the DIY enthusiasts and tech tinkerers out there, <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/creating-a-simple-battery-level-indicator">making your own battery level indicator</a> can be a rewarding project. It offers a hands-on way to understand the principles we've discussed and apply them to real-world applications. Whether you're looking to create a simple LED display or dive into the world of coulomb counting, there's a wealth of resources and guides available to help you get started.&nbsp;One such guide we've prepared walks you through the process of creating a battery level indicator tailored to your needs. Whether you're aiming for simplicity or precision, our guide offers step-by-step instructions, tips for selecting the right components, and insights into the underlying science behind battery charge monitoring. Explore more do-it-yourself ideas from our articles, like <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/diy-powerwall#google_vignette">building your own Powerwall</a>, <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/diy-bench-power-supply">crafting an adjustable bench power supply</a>, <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/plan-portable-power-pack">creating a portable power pack/station</a>, and <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/diy-power-bank">building your own power bank</a>Understanding how a battery level indicator works demystifies one of the many small wonders of our electronic world. By translating the complex behavior of lithium-ion batteries into something we can easily read, these indicators help us manage our devices more effectively, ensuring we're never caught off guard by a dead battery.For those interested in taking matters into their own hands, building a battery level indicator is a great way to deepen your understanding of battery technology and electronics. So why not check out our guide on how to make a battery level indicator and embark on your next DIY project? Explore more do-it-yourself ideas from our articles, like <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/diy-solar-system">setting up a home solar power system</a> and <a href="https://cellsaviors.com/blog/lithium-charger-diy">assembling a lithium battery charger</a>.

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