Lithium Ion Batteries
We started working with lithium ion batteries and have been impressed with the performance of these batteries. Most of these cells can be recovered and restored to full use.
Many applications where standard lead acid batteries are used can be replaced with lithium ion batteries as 4 cells will make up the required 12 volts used in most applications.
One interesting feature of the lithium battery is that the voltage under discharge remained constant until the cells shuts down preventing overdischarge.
As this is still a very new and evolving technology the dangers cannot be over emphasise. Precaution must be taken at all times to prevent damage from possible fires and explosion.
Restoring Lithium Ion Batteries
Lithium ion batteries have a safety circuit that opens if discharged
below 2.5 volts.
When used in series to achive the required operating voltage for an
application, unequal discharge between cells in the string can occur
resulting in one cell being discharge below 2.5 volts. If this happens
the whole battery appears dead. The standard charger provided cannot
charge this battery.
A boost charge with a special battery charger ( programmable charger )
can reactivate this circuit and restore the battery to full function.
When cells show less than 1.5 volts they should not be charged for
safety reasons. However we found that applying a very slow charge seems
to revive the cell. This process is similar to that used in
reconditioning Nimh batteries.
Battery Reconditioning Service
We offer a battery reconditioning
service for Lithium Ion Batteries. The first step is to determine the
state of the battery and then to apply selective remedies to restore
the battery.
Our methods include
a) Slow charging to restore capacity
b) Pulse charging to destroy crystalline formations
c) Boost charging to reactivate safety circuit
d) Slow discharge to eliminate any memeory effects.
Power Tool Batteries
Power tool batteries cost just as much
as a new tool. We consider it a waste. We now offer a reconditioning
service.
We replace power toll batteries with lithium ion batteries. Nimh and
Nicad are not used as they have poor performance when compared against
lithium ion.
Laptop Batteries
We offer reconditioned laptop batteries for sale at a fraction of
the price. Like automotive batteries there is a $10 trade in with your
dead lap top battery to encourage reuse and recycling.We also offer a reconditioning service.
Storage Batteries
You can use lithium ion as storage batteries. The advantage of
these batteries is their high energy content and the ability to hold
their voltage right throughout the discharge cycle.We package 12 and 24 volt systems.
Excellent for use in mobile entertainment systems.
We stress care and precaution when using lithium ion batteries for this purpose. Earlier cobalt oxide cells are less stable than later Iorn phospate based cells.
