EXULTED LITHIUM BATTERIES

Exulted lithium batteries stand apart from other battery chemistries due to their high energy density and low cost per cycle. However, “lithium battery” is an ambiguous term. There are about six common chemistries of lithium batteries, all with their own unique advantages and disadvantages. For renewable energy applications, the predominant chemistry is Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4). This chemistry has excellent safety, with great thermal stability, high current ratings, long cycle life, and tolerance to abuse.

Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) is an extremely stable lithium chemistry when compared to almost all other lithium chemistries. The battery is assembled with a naturally safe cathode material (iron phosphate). Compared to other lithium chemistries iron phosphate promotes a strong molecular bond, which withstands extreme charging conditions, prolongs cycle life, and maintains chemical integrity over many cycles. This is what gives these batteries their great thermal stability, long cycle life, and tolerance to abuse. LiFePO4 batteries are not prone to overheating, nor are they disposed to ‘thermal runaway’ and therefore do not over-heat or ignite when subjected to rigorous mishandling or harsh environmental conditions.

Compared with traditional battery technology, lithium-ion batteries charge faster, last longer, and have a higher power density for more battery life in a lighter package. When you know a little about how they work, they can work that much better for you.

Advantages of Exulted Lithium Batteries

1. High energy density – potential for yet higher capacities.
2. Does not need prolonged priming when new. One regular charge is all that’s needed.
3. Relatively low self-discharge – self-discharge is less than half that of nickel-based batteries.
4. Low Maintenance – no periodic discharge is needed; there is no memory.
5. Specialty cells can provide very high current to applications such as power tools.

Limitations of Exulted Lithium Batteries

1. Requires protection circuit to maintain voltage and current within safe limits.
2. Subject to aging, even if not in use – storage in a cool place at 40% charge reduces the aging effect.
3. Transportation restrictions – shipment of larger quantities may be subject to regulatory control. This restriction does not apply to personal carry-on batteries.
4. Expensive to manufacture – about 40 percent higher in cost than nickel-cadmium.
5. Not fully mature – metals and chemicals are changing on a continuing basis.