What are the Benefits of Lithium-Ion Batteries?

What are the Benefits of Lithium-Ion Batteries?

The big buzz in batteries is lithium-ion technology. Nowadays, they are the common source of power in several everyday products such as laptops, cell phones, power tools and even vehicles. As technology evolves focusing on speed, big data and mobility, the importance of reliable portable power is massive and steadily on the rise.

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At Tennant, rechargeable lithium-ion (Li-on) batteries are increasingly popular as a power option for small and large cleaning equipment. Their advantages fall into five broad categories: maintenance, longevity, charging speed, safety and ease of charging. Before diving into the specifics, let&#;s define what exactly are lithium-ion batteries and a little bit of the science behind them.

How are lithium batteries different from lithium-ion?

In short, lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable whereas most lithium batteries aren&#;t. Li-ion batteries are able to be recharged hundreds of times and are more stable. They tend to have a higher energy density, voltage capacity and lower self-discharge rate than other rechargeable batteries. This makes for better power efficiency as a single cell has longer charge retention than other battery types.

5 Advantages of Lithium-Ion Batteries

As mentioned earlier we, categorized the pros of Li-on batteries into five larger categories:

• Maintenance: Unlike flooded lead-acid batteries with water levels that need to be monitored, lithium-ion batteries do not need to be watered. This reduces the maintenance needed to keep the batteries operational, which also eliminates training new team members on the procedure and monitoring machines to ensure that water levels are correct. Lithium-ion batteries also eliminate engine maintenance.
• Longevity: The average lithium-ion battery lifespan for a large-capacity battery pack can be as long as eight or more years. A long service life helps provide a return on your investment in lithium-ion battery technology.
• Easy & Fast Charging: Using fast-charging lithium-ion batteries means less downtime for a machine while it&#;s tethered to a charging station. In a busy facility, of course, the less time a machine has to sit idle, the better. Also reducing downtime for a machine, the lithium-ion battery can be opportunity charged. This means that cleaning procedures don&#;t have to be designed around the need to allow a battery to fully charge in-between uses, and also simplifies training for team members.
• Safer Facilities: Improve indoor air quality and reduce the risk of accidents by eliminating exposure to flammable fuels and battery acid with lithium-ion technology. Also enjoy quiet operation with low dBa sound levels.
• Environmental Impact: Lithium-ion batteries provide significant environmental benefits over other fossil fuel alternatives. With the steady increase in electric vehicles, we are seeing an immediate impact in the reduction of carbon emissions. Minimizing your gas-powered cleaning machines not only benefits your long term cost but helps your business be more sustainable.

Other Considerations & Guidelines

When thinking about how lithium-ion compares to other batteries there are a couple of factors to consider. Things like how to manage the storage of your units is important. Pricing also plays a factor when considering investing in lithium-ion batteries for your equipment. While lithium-ion batteries typically have a higher price tag, the life-time value (LTV) of the product can outweigh the cost.

Time savings, simplified training, and long battery life are some of the biggest reasons that more facilities are making the investment in lithium-ion batteries. Making the switch to lithium-ion is easier than you think and should something your business evaluates on a regular basis. When going over your cleaning equipment inventory consider how these benefits might be useful in your operations.

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Source: What are the Benefits of Lithium-Ion Batteries? by Tennant Company.
*Based on a 7-day cleaning cycle with labor costs at $13 per hour

Lithium-ion batteries have revolutionized the world of portable power and energy storage. From smartphones to electric vehicles, these batteries have become an indispensable part of our daily lives. However, their widespread use doesn't mean they are without their advantages and disadvantages. In this comprehensive article, we will take a deep dive into the pros and cons of lithium-ion batteries, addressing the interests of individuals with boats, campers, robotics, ham radios, and off-grid power enthusiasts.

Pros of Lithium-Ion Batteries

1. High Energy Density: Lithium-ion batteries are renowned for their high energy density. This characteristic means they can store a significant amount of energy in a relatively small and lightweight package. This makes them ideal for applications where space and weight constraints are crucial. According to research from the Journal of Power Sources, lithium-ion batteries have an energy density of approximately 150-200 watt-hours per kilogram, far surpassing other battery types.

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2. Long Cycle Life: Lithium-ion batteries offer a longer cycle life compared to many other types of batteries. With proper care and maintenance, they can last for several years, making them a cost-effective choice. A study published in Nature Communications indicates that high-quality lithium-ion batteries can endure more than 1,000 charge and discharge cycles while retaining a significant portion of their capacity.

3. Fast Charging: Quick recharge times are a significant advantage of lithium-ion batteries. This feature is especially beneficial for campers and boaters who need to recharge their devices or power banks quickly while on the go. Research by Stanford University's Department of Materials Science and Engineering has led to advancements in fast-charging technology, further enhancing this benefit.

4. Low Self-Discharge: Lithium-ion batteries have a low self-discharge rate, meaning they retain their charge for longer periods when not in use. This feature makes them ideal for emergency backup power systems and ham radio operators who need reliable power when needed. A study published in the Journal of The Electrochemical Society found that lithium-ion batteries typically lose less than 2-3% of their charge per month when stored at room temperature.

5. Variety of Sizes and Shapes: Lithium-ion batteries come in various sizes and shapes, making them adaptable to different applications. Whether you need a compact battery for your handheld radio or a larger one for your boat's trolling motor, there's likely a lithium-ion battery that fits your needs. This versatility is due to advancements in battery manufacturing technology, as outlined in a report from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).

Cons of Lithium-Ion Batteries

1. Expensive: One of the most significant drawbacks of lithium-ion batteries is their cost. They tend to be more expensive upfront compared to other battery types. According to research from the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), the cost of lithium-ion batteries has been decreasing steadily over the years, but it remains a factor to consider, especially for budget-conscious users.

2. Limited Lifespan: While lithium-ion batteries have a long cycle life, they do have a limited overall lifespan. Over time, their capacity decreases, which means they may need replacement, adding to the long-term cost. A study published in the Journal of The Electrochemical Society indicates that the capacity of lithium-ion batteries can degrade by approximately 20% after 500 charge and discharge cycles.

3. Safety Concerns: Lithium-ion batteries can be prone to thermal runaway, which can lead to fires or explosions in extreme cases. Proper handling and storage are crucial to mitigate these risks, making safety a top priority for users. Research from the Journal of Power Sources highlights the importance of robust safety mechanisms in lithium-ion battery design to prevent catastrophic failures.

4. Environmental Impact: The production and disposal of lithium-ion batteries can have a significant environmental impact due to the extraction of lithium and other rare materials. Proper recycling and disposal procedures are essential to minimize this impact. A study published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters explores the environmental implications of lithium-ion battery recycling and highlights the importance of sustainable practices.

5. Temperature Sensitivity: Lithium-ion batteries are sensitive to temperature extremes. They perform best within a specific temperature range, making them less suitable for some outdoor applications where temperature variations can be extreme. Research from the Journal of Energy Storage discusses the impact of temperature on lithium-ion battery performance and the need for thermal management systems.

Conclusion

In conclusion, lithium-ion batteries offer a plethora of benefits, including high energy density, long cycle life, and fast charging. However, they also come with drawbacks such as cost, limited lifespan, safety concerns, environmental impact, and temperature sensitivity. Understanding these pros and cons is crucial for individuals with boats, campers, robotics, ham radios, and off-grid power enthusiasts as they make decisions about incorporating lithium-ion batteries into their setups. 

Contact us to discuss your requirements of lithium ion battery supplier. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.