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Safety Issues When Using Drones

Himax - Drones

Safety Issues When Using Drones

The most common drone safety issues, next to pilot error are related to battery failures. If you’ve ever experienced battery failure during charging, storage, or operation, then you understand how alarming and potentially dangerous it can be.

Over 200 injuries related to drone battery incidents were reported to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission between 2012 and 2017. The reported incidents involved fire, smoke, and even explosions. It’s likely that countless other incidents went unreported because they didn’t end in an emergency room visit.

In order to ensure battery safety, it’s critical as a commercial drone operator to purchase your batteries and battery management systems from a reputable, safety-minded provider. 

Why Do Drone Batteries Fail? 

While some drone battery failures occur for reasons that no one could predict or discover, most incidents could have been avoided with proper care and maintenance of your battery fleet. To reduce your potential risk drone users should be well-versed in battery safety practices.

Manufacturers are also responsible for the safety of each battery. In order to provide reliable performance and increased safety, reputable battery manufacturers employ high-quality materials and precise manufacturing and quality control processes. When manufacturers cut corners, they reduce overall battery safety. Quality costs money, so when a battery price seems too good to be true, it probably is.  

Choosing Batteries for Drone Safety

Know the Manufacturer

Reputable manufacturers are transparent and provide plenty of information about their company and practices. Research the quality of materials and designs used to manufacture their drone batteries. If you’re considering a discounted battery purchase but can’t find much information about the company that makes it, it’s best to reconsider. Make sure that your supplier is located within the United States, if you need support or have a question, you want to have an English speaking support staff to answer your call.

Focus on Safety Features

In the interests of the bottom line, some manufacturers strip away “expendable” safety features to create budget batteries. You might be tempted by those batteries when you’re browsing online, but be careful – always review the product description carefully and note the safety features listed. You’ll probably need to visit the manufacturer’s website to find a complete list of features and related details. 

Choose the Right Charger

A top-of-the-line drone battery plugged into a low-quality charger will inevitably cause headaches and compromise battery safety. It’s best to choose a “smart” or programmable battery charger. You’re better able to manage your drone batteries when you have important charging data at your disposal. It’s also best to use batteries and chargers produced by the same manufacturer. 

Best Practices for Battery Safety

How to Store

It’s recommended that you drain batteries to 40-60 percent of their full capacity before storing them for more than ten days. If you’re planning to store them for fewer than 10 days, drain them to 60-80 percent of their capacity. Partially draining batteries reduces stress on them and extends their working life. Never store your batteries for more than three months without charging them. 

It’s best to store batteries in a dry location at room temperature. Before tucking those batteries away, inspect them for a puncture, puffing, or other abnormal physical features that indicate an unhealthy battery. 

How to Charge

Most incidents occur while the battery is charging, which is why it’s recommended to charge your drone batteries at a 1C charge rate. To find this rate take the milliamp hour capacity rating of your battery divide it by 1000. For example, a 22,000 millamp battery should be charged at 22amps. Always monitor your batteries during the charging process and only charge your batteries on a non-flammable surface located away from any flammable materials. While battery fires are rare, a damaged battery or incorrect charge settings can cause a battery to swell, expand and worst-case scenario catch fire. Being prepared with a suitable fire extinguisher and ready to react if you see signs of trouble is critical.

How to Operate

How and where you fly your drone can impact its battery life. It’s best to avoid flying in extreme temperatures. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific information about safe flight temperatures for your drone. The generally accepted rule is to fly within the range of 14 °F to 104 °F for optimal drone safety. 

Using an appropriately sized battery for your drone is critical for overall safety. Using a battery that does not provide enough power for your drone will not only adversely affect battery life but can lead to overheating of the pack and thermal runaway, a dangerous process that devours the battery. Thermal runaway is a heat-induced chemical reaction that intensifies and continues to raise internal temperatures until all the reactive agents within the cell are consumed. 

How to Transport

Secure your batteries with padding during transport to prevent them from hitting against other batteries or objects. Also, make sure that any exposed leads or connectors are protected from arcing or shorting. Cover with tape or use specifically designed covers to avoid issues.  You can purchase cases and backpacks designed specifically for this purpose. If you’re taking them with you on a plane, remember to pack your drone and batteries in your carry-on baggage and review the current FAA rules for batteries. Regulations for transportation of batteries are also subject to the carrier by carrier-specific rules. Always check with your airline before you try and fly with your drone or batteries.

Himax Provides Safe, Custom-Designed Batteries for Commercial Use

Himax values safety above their bottom line, which is why they offer custom-designed batteries that are produced with superior materials and high-tech safety features. 

Custom-Designed Lithium-Ion Batteries for OEM Applications

Himax’s custom-designed batteries were created for professional, commercial, and industrial use. Their robust composition will withstand the most rigorous, unmanned applications without compromising on energy density and weight. They offer a wide range of custom battery designs, which ensures that you will receive a product that meets your unique and precise requirements. 

Why does custom design matter for drone safety? Himax’s custom-designed batteries accommodate targeted operating temperatures and discharge voltages. When your drone battery is designed with a specific application in mind, it will operate more efficiently and safely in the conditions under which it will actually be used. 

Battery Safety Certifications

Himax products are produced with high-quality materials that ensure durability, extend battery life, and prevent battery failure. Himax can assist with manufacturing to meet and exceed any required safety compliance schemes. We have experience with UN38.3, CE, RoHS, and FCC. We have multiple NRT laboratories that can provide testing services.

Safety Features

Himax’s commercial series of batteries provides the most advanced battery management system (BMS) available on the market. These “smart” batteries include an embedded BMS. This active BMS system helps extend battery life, tracks, and stores critical battery information. The system also allows for additional safety features include real-time fault detection, battery lockout protocol, five LED Indicators, and the ability to capture and store KPIs, which include:

  • Remaining capacity
  • State of charge
  • Cell voltage
  • Pack voltage
  • Current draw
  • Cell temperatures
  • Faults

In addition to careful construction and critical safety features, Himax inspects all products before they leave the factory to ensure each one meets their quality and safety standards.

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What Are the Benefits of Battery Protection Systems?

Himax - Battery-BMS

From: Jack Bayliss

You walk into work one morning and find out that a battery system isn’t working. What happens? How much time will you lose trying to fix it? Getting it back online will probably cost money, but how much?  

When it comes to battery malfunctions, that’s not even the worst-case scenario. What if damage to the battery system causes equipment damage further downstream or even creates a fire?

You consider eventualities like this whenever you integrate a new piece of machinery or develop a new work process, but have you gone through this process when integrating your battery system?  

In this article, we’ll take a look at circuit protection and why it’s so important for industrial batteries. We’ll analyze a few of the different options you have for battery protection systems and how each system can help you to avoid battery damage and dangerous accidents.  

Let’s start with the basics:

Battery-BMS

What Are Battery Protection Systems?

A battery protection system is any device that safeguards against battery malfunctions. Some are only effective against basic issues like overcharge or short circuit, while others provide complex monitoring and balancing for an entire battery system. 

What Do They Protect Against?

To really understand why battery protection systems are so important, you need to know what can happen if they’re not in place: 

Short Circuits

These occur when a current takes a shortcut. Electricity always wants to go back to the ground as soon as possible, but a correctly functioning circuit keeps it on the proper track. If the wiring in the circuit malfunctions, the current can escape and go back to the ground another way. That way might involve going through your equipment or one of your workers.

Overcharge

When you put too much charge into a rechargeable battery, that extra energy becomes heat. The temperature of the battery can rise beyond safe limits and reduce the battery’s lifespan.

Over Discharge

Draining too much of the charge from a battery can damage it in several ways, including decreasing the capacity of the battery, causing it to require charging more often, and causing a short circuit within the battery. If a lithium-ion battery lacks a protection system, it is highly prone to these and other malfunctions related to over-discharge.

Overcurrent

Too much current within the circuit can result from a number of malfunctions, including short circuits. If there is enough excess current, it can ignite components of the machinery and cause a fire.

BMS-For-Battery

How Do Battery Protection Systems Help?

Battery protection systems serve to keep the temperature and voltage balanced in your battery. Steady temperatures are critical for optimal battery life, which increases the safety of your operations and reduces your material costs. 

An effective battery protection system will measure the current and temperature in your battery and adjust the circuit to provide protection if levels become unsafe. The process typically involves a thermistor, a ceramic-type semiconductor that decreases in resistance when the temperature of the battery rises. When this happens, it indicates the need for control and simultaneously acts as a battery “first aid.” 

Thermistors work in conjunction with other safety mechanisms. Together, these systems provide the current and temperature control that a battery needs to stay operational. Let’s take a look at some of the most effective options:

Polymeric Positive Temperature Coefficients

The polymeric positive temperature coefficient, or PPTC, helps to balance the circuit against excess energy. Just like a standard fuse, it opens to create high resistance when there is too much current in the system. When the current decreases back to normal levels, it resets.  

Unlike some types of fuses, the PPTC resets itself so that you can still use the battery after the overcurrent is corrected. It simply serves to keep the battery functional until electricity resets back to normal levels.  

PPTCs are most commonly used for nickel batteries. They’re affordable, easy to install, and are compatible with most systems. 

Protection Circuit Modules

Protection circuit modules, or PCMs, protect against overcharge, over-discharge, and excessively fast discharge, all of which can cause an excess of current. In lithium batteries, the PCM usually protects against these situations using a metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor, or MOSFET.

The MOSFET alters the circuit’s conduction by switching cells on if the voltage falls too quickly or off if the voltage rises to unsafe levels. It keeps the battery running while helping to avoid damage, preserving battery life in the short and long term.  

Battery Management Systems

A battery management system, or BMS, is necessary when you need more precise control over multiple batteries. They provide all of the standard protection involved with simpler systems while monitoring individual cells and the system as a whole.

A BMS can do any of the following:

  • Preserve the life of the battery and keep it safe to use 
  • Report the state of the battery’s charge and capacity
  • Indicate when the battery is in need of replacement
  • Warn the user when the battery needs repair or when the voltage flow is too high 

The most important difference between a BMS and a simpler battery protection system is the ability of the BMS to monitor each cell as well as the full system.    

Individual cell monitoring is critical for battery health because systemwide malfunctions often show themselves at the individual cell level first. By monitoring the voltage in each cell and alerting the user to voltage overages or drops, a BMS can prompt repair of issues such as corrosion or dry-out before they do extensive damage.

In addition to monitoring, a BMS provides safety protection during key processes, including charging and discharging and disconnects the battery in case of failure or safety hazard. It integrates completely with the machine’s software system, allowing the user to get battery alerts as readily as texts or emails.

The Takeaway

Battery protection systems ensure the correct flow of voltage through your batteries, protecting your machinery as well as the health and safety of your personnel.

At Himax, we understand that battery protection is an essential safety function. We offer a variety of products to meet the needs of our industrial clients, and we take pride in our ability to help you select the right product for your business.

If you’re in need of a custom battery or battery charger, contact us today to get started.

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Why Are Custom Battery Designs Essential for Your Project?

Himax - 200ah-12v-Battery-Pack

As technology advances, portable energy solutions are becoming more available and more sophisticated. Highly specialized technologies call for highly specialized batteries.

Custom OEM batteries can help your business operate more efficiently and increase your profits. Himax has many years of experience in designing batteries for Lead-acid replacement, as well as in other industrial and commercial industries. Our custom battery solutions have the power to fulfill your mission-critical requirements and advance your company’s reputation.

How Custom OEM Batteries Benefit Your Brand

Precision Safety

High-quality custom batteries are specifically designed with your product’s application in mind. For instance, your product might be designed for operation in harsh, dirty, or dangerous conditions, in which case you need custom OEM batteries that can operate in rigorous environments for long periods of time. 

Whether it’s strong winds, high altitudes, varying humidity levels, extreme temperatures, or other challenging environmental conditions, you need a custom battery that will power through without failure or malfunction. An experienced company will design and develop custom batteries to suit your product and application while implementing safety features that protect your investment and your reputation.

LiFepo4-battery-pack

Optimal Performance

When you use high-quality, custom OEM batteries, you enhance your product’s performance. Precisely engineered batteries not only minimize safety hazards to people and investments, but they also reduce wasted energy. This increased energy efficiency optimizes your product’s potential, which positions you ahead of the competition. 

Additionally, custom OEM batteries for drones and other high-tech applications can be used as primary power sources or as backup sources for protection in the case of a combustion engine failure or other critical issues. Many custom OEM batteries can also be used in hybrid fuel or battery systems, enhancing performance while providing flexibility.

Increased Endurance

 

The increased energy efficiency provided by custom OEM batteries also increases your product’s endurance. Drone batteries and other technical-use batteries have come a very long way in terms of longevity, but nothing improves endurance like a custom battery solution. When your product goes farther and lasts longer than the competition’s, it increases your brand’s credibility. That translates to boosted sales. 

Targeted Testing

High-quality, custom OEM batteries undergo rigorous, application-specific testing to guarantee their performance, durability, and strength when used in your product. You’ll want to know how your custom commercial or industrial battery performs while engaged in various applications and under specific conditions. 

Reputable and experienced companies ensure functionality by performing both routine and additional mechanical testing for custom battery designs. Routine tests include component inspection, in-process inspection, and final testing on the completed product. Additional tests should be performed according to your application’s requirements. Reputable companies maintain complete testing data records that can be supplied upon request. 

Direct Support & Transparency

Look for a portable energy solutions company that will provide direct and continual support for your custom OEM batteries. They should be well-staffed, with after-sales support to ensure that you always receive the answers you need, when you need them. 

For your custom OEM battery needs, you’ll want to partner with a company that has access to an extensive, highly vetted network with a strong global presence. Experienced and reputable companies are forthcoming about their supply chains and professional network, so be sure you ask the right questions.

Additionally, any company you partner with should be transparent concerning their security protocols, especially regarding their supply chains in Asian markets. Find out how they intend to keep your sensitive IP projects secure.

Himax Delivers Safe and Professional Custom Battery Solutions

At Himax, we value innovation and integrity. We partner with you to generate, design and implement custom battery solutions and custom charging solutions for your critical operations.

For over 15 years we’ve supplied the energy, aerospace, and automation industries with high-quality, reliable, custom OEM batteries. We’ll work closely with your design team to ensure timely delivery. We’re here to provide support throughout the process and after the sale. 

If you’d like to learn more about how our custom OEM batteries can benefit your product or company, please contact us today.

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What Is The High Energy Density Battery?

Himax - High-Energy-Density-Battery

The energy density of batteries can be displayed in two different ways: gravimetric energy density and volumetric energy density.

The gravimetric energy density is the measure of how much energy a battery contains in proportion to its weight. This measurement is typically presented in Watt-hours per kilogram (W-hr / kg). The volumetric energy density, on the other hand, is compared to its volume and is usually expressed in watt-hours per liter (W-hr / L). Generally, we refer to battery energy density as gravimetric ( weight ) energy density, and watt-hour is a measure of electrical energy, equivalent to one hour, one watt of consumption.

In contrast, the power density of a battery is a measure of how fast energy can be delivered, not how much stored energy is available. Energy density is often confused with power density, so it is important to understand the difference between the two.

Calculation formula

The energy density of a battery can be simply calculated using this formula: Nominal Battery Voltage (V) x Rated Battery Capacity (Ah) / Battery Weight (kg) = Specific Energy or Energy Density (Wh / kg).

LiCo and LiFePO4 Batteries’ energy density

Generally speaking, LiCo batteries have an energy density of 150-270 Wh/kg. Their cathode is made up of cobalt oxide and the typical carbon anode with a layered structure that moves lithium-ions from anode to the cathode and back. This battery is popular for its high energy density, and it’s typically used in consumer products such as cell phones and laptops.

LiFe batteries, on the other hand, have an energy density of 100-120 Wh/kg. Although this is lower than LiCo batteries, it is still considered higher in the rechargeable battery category. LiFe batteries use iron phosphate for the cathode and a graphite electrode combined with a metallic backing for the anode. They are ideal for heavy equipment and industrial applications because of their better ability to withstand high and low temperatures.

Conclusion

As far as the single-cell is concerned, the positive and negative materials and production process of the battery will affect the energy density, so it is necessary to develop more reasonable materials and better manufacturing technology to obtain a more efficient battery.

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Self-Heating, Fast-Charging Battery Makes Electric Vehicles Climate-Immune

Electric Vehicles Battery

Source:Penn State

Electric Vehicles Battery

Californians do not purchase electric vehicles because they are cool, they buy EVs because they live in a warm climate. Conventional lithium-ion batteries cannot be rapidly charged at temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, but now a team of Penn State engineers has created a battery that can self-heat, allowing rapid charging regardless of the outside chill.

“Electric vehicles are popular on the west coast because the weather is conducive,” said Xiao-Guang Yang, assistant research professor in mechanical engineering, Penn State. “Once you move them to the east coast or Canada, then there is a tremendous issue. We demonstrated that the batteries can be rapidly charged independently of outside temperature.”

When owners can recharge car batteries in 15 minutes at a charging station, electric vehicle refueling becomes nearly equivalent to gasoline refueling in the time it takes. Assuming that charging stations are liberally placed, drivers can lose their “range anxiety” and drive long distances without worries.

Previously, the researchers developed a battery that could self-heat to avoid below-freezing power drain. Now, the same principle is being applied to batteries to allow 15-minute rapid charging at all temperatures, even as low as minus 45 degrees F.

The self-heating battery uses a thin nickel foil with one end attached to the negative terminal and the other extending outside the cell to create a third terminal. A temperature sensor attached to a switch causes electrons to flow through the nickel foil to complete the circuit when the temperature is below room temperature. This rapidly heats up the nickel foil through resistance heating and warms the inside of the battery. Once the battery’s internal temperature is above room temperature, the switch turns opens and the electric current flows into the battery to rapidly charge it. “One unique feature of our cell is that it will do the heating and then switch to charging automatically,” said Chao-Yang Wang, William E.

Diefenderfer Chair of mechanical engineering, professor of chemical engineering and professor of materials science and engineering, and director of the Electrochemical Engine Center. “Also, the stations already out there do not have to be changed. Control off heating and charging is within the battery, not the chargers.”

The researchers report the results of their prototype testing in this week’s edition of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. They found that their self-heating battery could withstand 4,500 cycles of 15-minute charging at 32 degrees F with only a 20-percent capacity loss. This provides approximately 280,000 miles of driving and a lifetime of 12.5 years, longer than most warranties.

A conventional battery tested under the same conditions lost 20-percent capacity in 50 charging cycles.

Lithium-ion batteries degrade when rapidly charged under 50 degrees F because, rather than the lithium ions smoothly integrating with the carbon anodes, the lithium deposits in spikes on the anode surface. This lithium plating reduces cell capacity, but also can cause electrical spikes and unsafe battery conditions. Currently, long, slow charging is the only way to avoid lithium plating under 50 degrees F.

Batteries heated above the lithium plating threshold, whether by ambient temperature or by internal heating, will not exhibit lithium plating and will not lose capacity.

“This ubiquitous fast-charging method will also allow manufacturers to use smaller batteries that are lighter and also safer in a vehicle,” said Wang.

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What Is High Voltage Battery?

High Voltage lifepo4 Battery

High Voltage Battery

LiHV电池的电压

An L-i-H-V battery is a type of Lithium battery that allows for a higher than normal voltage. The “HV” stands for “high voltage” and it has a higher energy density than standard LiPo batteries. Ordinary LiPo batteries have a nominal voltage of 3.7V and a fully charged voltage of 4.2V. LiFePO4 batteries have a nominal voltage of 3.2V and a fully charged voltage of 3.65V. Compared to these, LiHV batteries have a nominal voltage of 3.8V or 3.85V and can reach 4.35V or 4.4V on a full charge.

The characteristics of LiHV battery

With the increasing demand for lithium-ion batteries with higher capacities for electrical equipment, there is a growing expectation for increased energy density of lithium-ion batteries.

While high-voltage batteries have higher energy density and higher discharge platform, the safety performance is lower than that of ordinary batteries. At present, lithium cobalt oxide has been widely studied and applied as a high-voltage anode material. The structure is non-N-A-F-E-O-2 type, which is more suitable for lithium-ion insertion and ejection. The production process is simple, and the electrochemical performance is stable.

Based on the limited space and weight of the electrical power supply, the battery energy can be increased by increasing the battery voltage. For instance, increasing the operating voltage from 4.2v to 4.35v can increase the energy density of the battery up to 16%.

就高压电池和普通电池的放电率而言，高压电池具有更高的放电率和更强的功率。因此，高压电池更适合需要高速率放电的产品和设备。

关于不同容量下的不同电压的图表

下图反映了这三个充满电的电池在4.2V，4.35V和4.4V时的容量差异。

三个充满电的电池在4.2V，4.35V和4.4V时的容量差异。 从格雷普夫出发

从这三个曲线中，您可以看到LiHV电池可以释放出比普通LiPo电池更大的容量，从而为您的设备提供更长的使用寿命。

电池充电提示

值得注意的是，您需要事先知道电池的最大充电电压以防止过度充电。这是因为在过度充电期间释放的氧气和电解质可能会导致正极材料的结构发生变化，从而导致容量损失或剧烈的化学反应，从而缩短电池的寿命和降低性能。在严重的情况下，可能会发生爆炸或火灾。

市场上已经有许多配备了电池管理系统（BMS）的智能电池，可以让我们设置适当的截止电压进行充电，但是还有许多用于FPV 或 RC 车辆的电池 没有BMS，如果没有BMS，则还可以设置充电器的截止电压，以避免过度充电。

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What Is The SEI, And What Effect Does It Have On The Battery?

Himax - What-Is-The-SEI

The SEI (solid electrolyte interphase) is formed on the surface of the anode from the electrochemical reduction of the electrolyte and plays a crucial role in the long-term cyclability of a lithium-based battery.

Introduction of SEI

During the first charge and discharge of a lithium-ion battery, the electrode material reacts with the electrolyte at the solid-liquid phase interface. After the reaction, a thin film forms on the surface of the electrode material, where Li+ can be embedded and removed freely while electrons cannot. The SEI is about 100-120 nm thick, and it is mainly composed of various inorganic components, such as Lithium Carbonate (Li2CO3), Lithium Fluoride (LiF), Lithium Oxide (Li2O), Lithium Hydroxide (LiOH), as well as some organic components like  Lithium Alkyl Carbonates (ROCO2Li).

Source of SEI

When a lithium-ion battery starts to charge and discharge, the lithium ions are extracted from the active material of the positive electrode. At which point, they enter the electrolyte, penetrate the separator, enter the electrolyte, and finally embed themselves into the layered gap of the negative carbon material.

Electrons then come out of the positive electrode along the outer end loop and enter the negative electrode carbon material. At this point, an oxidation-reduction reaction occurs between the electrons, the solvent in the electrolyte, and the lithium ions. As the thickness of the SEI increases to the point where electrons cannot penetrate it, a passivation layer is formed, which inhibits the continuation of the redox reaction.

SEI’s impact on batteries

The formation of the SEI film has a crucial impact on the performance of electrode materials. On one hand, in the formation of the SEI film, parts of the lithium ions are consumed, which increases the irreversible capacity of batteries and reduces the charge and discharge efficiency of the electrode material.

On the other hand, the SEI is insoluble in organic solvents and can exist in stable conditions in organic electrolyte solutions. Furthermore,  solvent molecules cannot pass through it, thus effectively preventing the co-embedding of the ions and avoiding damage to the electrode material. This greatly improves the cycling performance and service life of the battery.

SEI’s affecting factors

The formation of the SEI is mainly influenced by the following aspects. First, electrolytes (Li salts, solvents, admixtures, etc.), with different compositions will result in different SEI compositions and affect the stability. Next, the formation, that is, the intensity of the first charge and discharges current. High temperature will also reduce the stability of the SEI and affect the battery cycle life. In addition, the thickness of the SEI changes based on the type of negative electrode material.

Conclusion

In-depth research on the SEI with its formation mechanism, structure and stability, and further search for effective ways to improve the performance have been hot topics of research in the electrochemical community.

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High Voltage Batteries

Lipo

The voltage of HV battery

An L-i-H-V battery is a type of Lithium battery that allows for a higher than normal voltage. The “HV” stands for “high voltage” and it has a higher energy density than standard LiPo batteries. Ordinary LiPo batteries have a nominal voltage of 3.7V and a fully charged voltage of 4.2V. LiFePO4 batteries have a nominal voltage of 3.2V and a fully charged voltage of 3.65V. Compared to these, LiHV batteries have a nominal voltage of 3.8V or 3.85V and can reach 4.35V or 4.4V on a full charge.

LiPO-Battery

The characteristics of HV battery

With the increasing demand for lithium-ion batteries with higher capacities for electrical equipment, there is a growing expectation for the increased energy density of lithium-ion batteries.

While high-voltage batteries have higher energy density and higher discharge platform, the safety performance is lower than that of ordinary batteries. At present, lithium cobalt oxide has been widely studied and applied as a high-voltage anode material. The structure is non-N-A-F-E-O-2 type, which is more suitable for lithium-ion insertion and ejection. The production process is simple, and the electrochemical performance is stable.

Based on the limited space and weight of the electrical power supply, the battery energy can be increased by increasing the battery voltage. For instance, increasing the operating voltage from 4.2v to 4.35v can increase the energy density of the battery up to 16%.

In terms of the discharge rate of high-voltage batteries and ordinary batteries, high-voltage batteries have higher discharge rates and stronger power. Therefore, high-voltage batteries are more suitable for products and equipment that require high-rate discharge.

Graph

The following graph reflects the difference in capacity between the three fully charged batteries at 4.2V, 4.35V and 4.4V.

the difference in capacity between three fully-charged batteries at 4.2V, 4.35V, and 4.4V. From Grepow

From these three curves, you can see that LiHV batteries can release more capacity than ordinary LiPo batteries, thus providing your device with longer duration.

Charging tips

It is worth noting that you need to know the maximum charging voltage of the battery in advance to prevent overcharging. This is because the oxygen and electrolytes released during overcharging may cause changes in the structure of the cathode material, resulting in capacity loss or violent chemical reactions that reduce the life and performance of the battery. In severe cases, an explosion or fire may occur.

There are already many smart batteries on the market that are equipped with a Battery Management System (BMS) that allows us to set the proper cut-off voltage for charging, but there are also many batteries for FPV or RC vehicles that do not have a BMS, and if there is no BMS, you can also set the cut-off voltage on the charger to avoid overcharging.

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10 Tips For More Eco-Friendly Outdoor Adventures & Camping Trips

Himax - Camping-Trips

10 Tips For More Eco-Friendly Outdoor Adventures & Camping Trips

Posted March 31, 2021

The percentage of people that enjoy camping three or more times each year has increased 72% since 2014, according to a recent report, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated international travel restrictions. Between the rapid increase in outdoor recreation and the rise of climate change, it’s more important now than ever to ensure the environment is protected during outdoor adventures in line with the U.S. Forest Service’s Tread Lightly principles.

Although our safe, most environmentally benign lithium iron phosphate energy storage systems help to reduce carbon emissions, especially when used in wind and solar power systems, we believe it’s essential to challenge our limits to further mitigate any additional harmful effects on the environment. Through our Limitless Blue initiative, we are committed to giving 1% of our net revenue annually to fund eco-friendly, earth-conscious causes and organizations around the globe. We also stand by, and recommend, the following tips when it comes to adventuring sustainably:

1. Use environmentally friendly transportation

Did you know that cars and trucks account for nearly one-fifth of all U.S emissions, emitting around 24 pounds of carbon dioxide and other global-warming gases for every gallon of gas? This is part of why we recommend taking a look at your mode of transportation to see how you can possibly cut down on your transport emissions before your next camping trip, fishing trip, or other outdoor adventure. Consider choosing a trip location that you can walk or cycle to or else look into public transportation options. If this isn’t possible, then try to carpool to minimize your emissions.

2. Bring DIY, organic snacks and meals instead of single-use food items

When planning snacks and meals for your next outdoor adventure, think carefully about how you can reduce waste. For example, buy in bulk, get creative and try making your own meals to decrease unnecessary packaging waste. You can also use reusable containers or beeswax wraps instead of plastic bags to transport the food. Additionally, try to only purchase organic food, as traditional agriculture uses synthetic fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides that can damage the environment, unlike organic agriculture.

3. Pack eco-friendly sunscreens, insect repellents and ointments

In order to avoid polluting lakes, ponds and rivers, leave water-soluble products at home. Also, if insecticides like permethrin (bug repellent) seep into natural water sources, they can be toxic to aquatic life. Protecting your skin is important, but so is protecting wildlife and natural sites so that they can be enjoyed by generations to come.

Gypsy 20

4. Use rechargeable batteries and products powered by the sun

Instead of relying on noisy, polluting diesel generators or batteries which cannot be recharged, look into using rechargeable, safe batteries that are powered by solar energy. Whether this means switching out the system that powers your van, overland vehicle, RV, or campervan, or something as simple as choosing to use a solar-powered lantern or phone charger, endless options are available for reducing waste and pollution on your next trip.

5. Bring used equipment or rent or repair old equipment

Before you buy a new piece of gear, try repairing old gear, renting gear, or buying used gear. The longer you can keep using a product, the less negative impact new products have on our environment. This will also likely save you money when preparing for your next adventure.

6. Take reusable bottles or water storage tanks

Although it can be convenient to fall into the habit of buying disposable plastic water bottles, with a bit of planning, you will never have to do that again. Bladders and reusable bottles are not only eco-friendly but also very easy to hike with. Water tanks or water storage bags are also great for front-country use.

7. Stick to designated trails and camping spots and avoid sensitive areas

Even though it can seem liberating and adventurous to occasionally wander off beaten paths, it can cause massive erosion, destroy delicate vegetation, and impede future vegetation growth. As best you can, try to avoid damaging surrounding foliage and always aim to set up camp at durable sites that have already been traversed by previous campers.

jarrod tocci

8. Wash 200 feet away from streams and lakes and scatter greywater

The U.S. Forest Service’s Tread Lightly program recommends washing 200 feet away from streams and lakes and scattering greywater so it filters through the soil. Be aware that most detergents, toothpaste, and soap can easily harm fish and can be extremely toxic to aquatic life. If possible, try to only buy eco-friendly and biodegradable soap and toothpaste to mitigate your impact on the environment.

9. Practice fire safety while also reducing firewood use

Beyond increasingly common wildfire risks in light of climate change, campfires are also a source of air pollution. Burning wood releases a surprisingly large number of compounds, including nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, benzene, and many other potentially toxic volatile organic compounds. Aim to keep your fire smaller, limited in duration, and protected from the wind so as to minimize the amount of firewood needed and air pollution emitted.

10. Leave no trace and separate out trash, compost and recycling

It’s always important to remember to pack it in and pack it out and aim to leave a campsite better than you found it. Challenge your limits and do your part by making sure to also separate out trash from compost from recycling and using biodegradable bags where possible.

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8 Tips For Using NiMH Batteries(Nickel-Metal Hydride)

2200mah-Nimh

2200mah-Nimh

NiMH is an abbreviation for nickel-metal hydride. Ni-MH batteries are our most common rechargeable batteries in consumer electronics. Due to its superior chemical properties, nickel-metal hydride batteries have replaced nickel-cadmium batteries. Since NiMH does not use cadmium (the use of toxic chemicals in battery use) and also does not have the same memory problems that plague NiCD, NiMH batteries are a better choice. At the same time, portable high-power processing methods are one of the most popular processing methods in battery use. Today, we come to know the techniques of using Ni-MH batteries.

What are the classifications of Ni-MH batteries?

We usually see nickel-metal hydride battery packs composed of multiple single batteries connected in series. Compared with lithium-polymer batteries (LiPO), nickel-metal hydride batteries are safer to use. The rated voltage of each individual battery is 1.2V, which means that we see that the rated voltage of the Ni-MH battery pack is a multiple of 1.2V. In particular, we supply 1.2, 2.4, 3.6, 4.8, 6.0, 7.2, and 8.4-volt battery packs. Regardless of the physical size of the battery, the rated voltage of each Ni-MH battery is 1.2V. The physical size of the battery indicates the capacity of the battery. Generally, the larger the battery, the greater the mAh of the batter

Application of Ni-MH battery

As mentioned above, Ni-MH batteries are very suitable for short-term (<30 days) high water consumption. We have seen some consumer use of nickel-metal hydride batteries in digital cameras, communication equipment, personal cosmetics equipment, and laptop batteries.

digital cameras

How to use NiMH batteries?

Ni-MH batteries may have some defects, but what matters is that they discharge themselves. When the battery is not in use, it will slowly deplete its power. If the remaining battery time is long enough, the battery may be permanently damaged. A rough estimate of the depletion of NiMH batteries is that 20% of the battery power will be depleted within the first 24 hours after charging, and 10% will be depleted every 30 days thereafter.

How to charge the Ni-MH battery?

To charge the Ni-MH battery, we need a specific charger, because using an incorrect battery charging method may make the battery unusable. It should be noted that the time to charge the Ni-MH battery is less than 20 hours, because charging for a long time may damage the battery.

NiMH battery charging

How many cycles can NiMH batteries be charged?

Normally, it is expected that the charge/discharge cycle of a standard Ni-MH battery is 2000 times, but different mileage may vary. This is because every battery is different. The use of the battery can also determine the number of cycles that the battery will survive. All in all, the 2000 cycles (or about) of the battery are quite impressive for a rechargeable battery.

What are the precautions when charging Ni-MH batteries?

In order to protect the service life of the battery, you should keep in mind a few precautions: trickle charging is the safest way you can charge the battery. To do this, please make sure to charge at the lowest possible rate, the total charging time is less than 20 hours, and remove the battery at this time. This method basically charges the battery at a speed that does not overcharge the battery but keeps it charged. Do not overcharge the NiMH battery. In short, once the battery is fully charged, it will stop charging. There are several ways to know when the battery is overflowing. The battery chargers on the market are all “smart”, which can help test the small changes in the battery’s voltage/temperature and can indicate the overflowing battery.

How to store Ni-MH batteries?

Initially, nickel-based batteries and storage had widespread problems. Basically, if the battery is not completely drained before charging, over time, this part of the battery capacity will slowly run out. However, the current nickel-metal hydride batteries do not have these problems, but if you do not fully discharge, you can still see the same effect. The newer Ni-MH can be restored by “exercising” the battery (full charge and discharge the battery several times).

Can NiMH batteries replace alkaline batteries?

This is totally possible. If you are using alkaline batteries, you can pick up some Ni-MH batteries to replace them. The voltage drop experienced by alkaline batteries during use offsets the voltage difference (alkaline 1.5v, NiMH 1.2V). Every battery is a little different, and the quality of the battery is also different. Before charging for the first time, be sure to check the battery data sheet/product information.

Want to know more about nickel-metal hydride batteries? you can consult us directly, we will provide you with professional battery solutions.

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