LiFePO4 batteries and their significance

LiFePO4 (Lithium iron phosphate) battery also called FLP (lithium ferro phosphate) battery is a type of lithium-ion battery using a graphite carbon electrode as anode and lithium iron phosphate as a cathode. The operating voltage and the energy density of the FLP battery are lower compared to other lithium-ion batteries.

These batteries have a very flat charge and discharge profile and offer many advantages over lead-acid batteries. These batteries are not the cheapest ones but due to their remarkable characteristics, these batteries are worthy of investment.

Significance of LiFePO4

LiFePO4 batteries possess certain characteristics that make them more reliable than other used batteries.

Better Cycle life

The cycle life offered by FLP batteries is longer than most other lithium-ion batteries. Under optimal conditions, the cycle life offered by FLP batteries is around 10,000 cycles. The cycle life of FLP batteries under normal conditions is approximately 3,000 cycles. Also, FLP batteries offer good calendar life which means they offer a slower rate of capacity. Due to these characteristics, FLP batteries have better aging.

Lower energy density

Compared to a new commonly used lead-acid battery, the energy density of the LiFePO4 battery is 15% less. Almost all the cells under the FLP brand have a lower discharge rate. However, the discharge rate can be increased by using a large battery of more ampere-hours.

Other lead-acid batteries

By placing 4-cells in series, a nominal voltage of about 12.8V can be achieved.. This is quite the same voltage as obtained from 6-cell lead-acid batteries. This characteristic makes FLP batteries a good replacement for commonly used lead-acid batteries. To prevent any damage to FLP batteries, the charging systems are adapted carefully.

Transportation

These batteries are better for transportation i.e bicycles, electric cars, etc, as these batteries have a higher discharge rate and longer life. These batteries also have a lower weight which makes them best for use in bicycles and electric cars as they are easy to carry. Various companies are now adopting the use of FLP batteries. Tesla has recently announced that all the standard range models will now use FLP batteries. Tesla has also used these FLP batteries in their standard range Models 3 and Y in the United States.

Home Energy Storage

FLP batteries are preferred for use in homes because of their light weight and longer life. Initially, the commonly used batteries for homes were NMC but now people are shifting towards FLP batteries. The low energy density adds volume and mass which are tolerable for static use. These batteries are preferred because they charge easily and take less time.

Safety

One of the best advantages of FLP batteries is their chemical and thermal stability. The P-O bond is stronger as compared to the Co-O bond, so that when overheated it releases oxygen atoms slowly. It stabilizes the redox energies and does not explode at high temperatures. Also, LiFePO4 batteries are highly resilient and therefore hard to ignite in case of mishandling.

Latest Technology

Start stop battery is used in cars with the latest technology. It is the battery that automatically starts or stops the engine when the car is not running. Only automatic cars have this option.

Applications

There are various applications of FLP batteries and a few are discussed here.

• These batteries are preferred for use in automobiles like low-speed electric vehicles, buses, etc due to their safety and low maintenance cost.
• These batteries are used for instant high power supply.
• Because of the advantages like long cycle life, safety, low discharge rate, efficiency, and stability, these batteries are now being used in UPS power batteries.
• Electric cigarettes also use these types of batteries.
• These batteries are also used in banks, hospitals, and colleges because the energy storage system avoids power outages and ensures a stable power supply.