You need to understand Battery Technology!
part 1
The most common one has several characteristics that can be identified with visual inspection.
The 18650 battery is a versatile and widely-used power source for portable devices, distinguished by its cylindrical shape and specific physical dimensions.
18650 very common these days
The 18650 battery is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery commonly used to power a variety of portable devices such as laptop battery packs, flashlights, cordless tools, and electric vehicles. Its name is derived from its dimensions – the first four digits refer to its physical size, while the fifth digit indicates that it’s a cylindrical cell. Typically, the standard 18650 battery measures 18mm in diameter and 65mm in length.
In some cases, modifications have been made to the 18650 battery, including the addition of a button top or an internal protection circuit. These modifications may increase the length of the battery from 65mm to 70mm or even longer, so it’s important to confirm the exact specifications required to power a device with the manufacturer.
Now you can identify the physical characteristics you need to understand specifications.
Li-Ion (Lithium-Ion) 18650 Batteries:
- These are the most common type of 18650 batteries.
- Li-Ion batteries offer a good balance of energy density, capacity, and cycle life.
- Common chemistries include LiCoO2 (Cobalt Oxide), LiMn2O4 (Manganese Spinel), and LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate).
- Some 18650 batteries are designed for high capacity, making them suitable for applications where extended runtime is essential.
- Protected batteries have built-in protection circuits to prevent overcharging, over-discharging, and short circuits.
- Unprotected batteries lack these built-in protections and are often used in applications with external protection.
- The top of the battery can be either flat or have a button-shaped protrusion.
- The choice between button top and flat top depends on the specific requirements of the device in which the battery is used.
And to add to the confusion these are other 18650 case style with different chemistry
- LiPo (Lithium Polymer) 18650 Batteries:
- LiPo batteries are a type of lithium-ion battery with a different electrolyte composition.
- They are known for their flexibility and are often used in applications where a flexible form factor is required.
- IMR (Lithium Manganese Rechargeable) 18650 Batteries:
- IMR batteries use a lithium manganese oxide cathode.
- They are known for their high discharge rates and are commonly used in high-performance applications, such as vaping devices.
- INR (Lithium Nickel Rechargeable) 18650 Batteries:
- INR batteries use a lithium nickel oxide cathode.
- They are also known for high discharge rates and are commonly used in high-drain applications.
- ICR (Lithium Cobalt Rechargeable) 18650 Batteries:
- ICR batteries use a lithium cobalt oxide cathode.
- They often have higher energy density but may have lower discharge rates compared to IMR and INR batteries.
- Hybrid (NMC or NCA) 18650 Batteries:
- Hybrid batteries use a combination of nickel, manganese, and cobalt (NMC) or nickel, cobalt, and aluminum (NCA) in the cathode.
- They aim to achieve a balance between high energy density and high power.
It’s important to choose the right type of 18650 battery based on your specific application and requirements. Consider factors such as capacity, discharge rate, voltage, and safety features when selecting a battery for a particular device or project. Always follow manufacturer recommendations and safety guidelines when handling and using lithium-ion batteries.
Just in case you didn’t understand this battery technology is Dangerous!
Keep lithium ion batteries AWAY from metal objects. DO NOT store lithium ion batteries loose or on your person, in a pocket, purse, backpack, etc without a protective box or case. ALWAYS store lithium ion batteries in the box or case in which the batteries were delivered.
âš WARNING:
Use caution as misusing or mishandling the battery may cause a FIRE or EXPLOSION which may result in personal injury, property damage, or death. The user must have an appropriate understanding of the potential dangers of LITHIUM ION BATTERIES before purchase and usage. No express or implied guarantee of compatibility, suitability, or fitness for any particular purpose or device can be made. This battery is manufactured and sold for the intended use of system integrations with proper protection circuitry or battery packs with a BMS (battery management system) or PCB (circuit board/module). This battery is neither designed nor intended to be used with an E-CIGARETTE, VAPORIZER, or similar device and MUST NOT be used with such devices due to RISK OF FIRE or EXPLOSION. If purchasing this battery for resale purposes, you MUST forward ALL warnings to ALL customers for their reference and safety!
- DO NOT USE WITH E-CIGARETTE, VAPORIZER, OR SIMILAR DEVICE
- BATTERY IS ONLY FOR USE IN PROTECTED BATTERY PACKS
- ONLY ASSEMBLE A BATTERY PACK IF YOU ARE COMPETENT IN DOING SO
- DO NOT STORE BATTERY/CELL LOOSE OR IN A POCKET, PURSE, ETC. ALWAYS USE A PROTECTIVE CASE OR BOX FOR STORAGE AND TRANSPORT
- WHEN NOT IN USE, ALWAYS STORE LITHIUM ION BATTERIES IN THE PROTECTIVE CASE/BOX IN WHICH BATTERIES WERE DELIVERED
- Misusing or mishandling lithium ion batteries can pose a SERIOUS RISK of PERSONAL INJURY, PROPERTY DAMAGE, OR DEATH
- BATTERIES MAY EXPLODE, BURN, OR CAUSE A FIRE IF MISUSED OR MISHANDLED
- Usage of batteries is AT YOUR OWN RISK!
- ONLY use with proper protection circuitry
- DO NOT short circuit intentionally or unintentionally
- KEEP AWAY from metal/conductive objects to prevent short circuiting
- DO NOT use if PVC wrapper or terminal insulator is damaged or torn
- DO NOT use if battery is damaged in any way
- DO NOT over-charge or charge above the maximum voltage rating
- DO NOT over-discharge or exceed the continuous discharge rating
- DO NOT modify, disassemble, puncture, cut, crush, or incinerate
- DO NOT expose to liquids or high temperatures
- DO NOT solder onto battery, spot weld only
- DO NOT use force to install or install in reverse/backwards
- ONLY use within manufacturer’s specification
- KEEP AWAY from pets and children
- ALWAYS charge in or on a fire-proof surface and never leave batteries charging unattended
- ONLY use a smart charger designed for this specific type of battery
- DO NOT mix and match brands and models, old and new, used and unused batteries
- STOP immediately if while charging/storing/using the battery it emits an unusual smell, feels hot, changes color or shape, or appears abnormal in any way
- It is your responsibility to determine that your charger or device is functioning properly
- If exposed to battery electrolyte, flush with water immediately and/or immediately contact a physician or emergency services
- DO NOT throw away in trash; contact your local jurisdiction for proper recycling or disposal
- Resellers MUST forward ALL warnings to ALL customers for their reference and safety