A lithium ion-based power storage system has a high energy density, producing a high power output without weighing much. However, with time, every power storage system witnesses a decline in performance or power-storing abilities. So, it is important to perform performance checks occasionally to ensure efficient power storage. Many Chinese lithium ion battery manufacturers perform performance checks, and how some of these checks can boost performance is discussed in this blog post.
Periodic Checks And Battery Performance
Manufacturers carry out tests like insulation tests, temperature tests, and aging tests to figure out how and why the efficiency of a power storage unit is being affected. Some of these tests are discussed here.
Insulation Test
Defective power storage units perform at a suboptimal level and can also be a major safety concern. The insulation test, as the name implies, checks the insulation between the two electrodes, the anode (negative electrode) and the cathode (positive electrode).
However, an insulation test checks the insulation between the two electrodes and between the electrodes and the enclosure. Usually, the insulation is taken care of in the manufacturing stages, and the material used for manufacturing the enclosure plays a role in the insulation. So, if the insulation levels are bad for a power storage unit that is already in use, it may be time to discard the unit altogether.
Checking The Internal Resistance
The ideal internal resistance for a power storage unit should be zero so that there is a smooth flow of current. Usually, the manufacturer will measure the voltage in an open circuit vis-a-vis one where a load has been added. The value of the internal resistance depends on many factors, like the type of electrolyte, the temperature conditions, the nature of the electrodes, etc. So, if there is indeed some problem with the internal resistance of the power storage unit, the manufacturer may make some tweaks in the circuitry to restore the unit’s efficiency.
Aging Test
Aging, or the natural decline in the efficiency of a power storage unit, has a key role in its efficiency. Usually, with time, the charge-discharge cycle gets affected. Also, the ability to get recharged is affected by aging. Not much can be done about the natural aging of a power storage unit. But if the unit has a long warranty period, you may get the aging test done and make some tweaks to boost efficiency.
Conclusion
A power storage unit, especially a lithium ion-based, can work well for many tears. However, regular maintenance and proper tests to detect the efficiency can prolong the life of these power storage units. Moreover, regularly checking for insulation helps avoid accidents. So, if you are using a lithium ion-based battery, make it a point to maintain it well and visit the manufacturer occasionally to check the performance and make appropriate customizations as needed.