Like humans, batteries perform best at room temperature. Did you know that lightly warming an empty battery from a smartphone or flashlight, for example by keeping it in the pocket of your jeans, can contribute to a longer lifespan? This is because a better electrochemical reaction occurs at more pleasant temperatures, around 27°C.
While high temperatures can temporarily improve performance, prolonged exposure to heat can significantly shorten battery life.
In colder conditions, as any motorist in a cold country can confirm, a warm battery starts a car’s engine better than a cold one. This is because cold increases internal resistance and reduces capacity. A battery that offers 100% capacity at 27°C performs at only 50% of its capacity at -18°C.
However, not every battery is the same. The temporary capacity reduction depends on the chemical composition of the battery.
The solid-state polymer battery, which delivers optimal performance at temperatures between 60-100°C (140-212°F), illustrates the complexity of temperature management. These batteries are used in hot climates where heat acts as a performance enhancer, supported by built-in heating elements. Despite their potential, high costs and safety risks limit their application.
In multi-cell packs, such as those in power tools and electric vehicles, cold can lead to cell reversal when weaker cells become overloaded and permanently damaged. This underscores the importance of appropriate technology choice and regular monitoring of battery cells to ensure sustainable performance.
This section highlights how advanced battery technologies and careful cell management are crucial for maintaining battery efficiency and durability under varying temperature conditions.
It is important to note that batteries last the longest when used at or just below room temperature (20°C). When a battery is used at 30°C instead of the just mentioned room temperature, its lifespan is shortened by as much as 20 percent. If you discharge or charge the battery at 45°C, the lifespan is only half of what can be expected when used at room temperature.
Efficient temperature management is crucial for maintaining battery performance and lifespan. The tips below can help your batteries perform optimally under all conditions.
Use: Avoid exposing devices with batteries to direct sunlight or in a car on a hot or cold day. If possible, keep the devices indoors or insulated.
Storage: Preferably store batteries in a dry, cool place at a (somewhat) constant temperature. As described earlier, extreme temperature fluctuations can negatively affect performance and lifespan.
Charging: Charge batteries at room temperature. Charging at extremely high or low temperatures can damage the battery, often making it less efficient.
Understanding the impact of temperature on battery performance and lifespan is crucial for optimizing energy storage. Factors such as operating temperature, cycle duration, and charging and discharging times play a significant role in how efficiently and sustainably batteries operate. At Elfa, we have deep knowledge of these complex factors and offer targeted solutions to maximize the efficiency of your battery usage.
As your partner in lighting and energy solutions, Elfa not only provides high-quality batteries and accumulators, but also the necessary expertise and support to make your projects successful. Whether it’s applications in electric vehicles, solar energy systems, or industrial settings, we are ready to assist you.
Contact us today to discover how Elfa can help you with your specific applications.
Elfa Amsterdam
Madridstraat 5-7
1175 RK Amsterdam (Lijnden)
+31 (0)20 643 69 72
[email protected]
Elfa Erp
Molentiend 10
5469 EK Erp, (Noord-Brabant)
+31 (0)413 212 222
[email protected]
