In previous articles, we introduced you to the different types of batteries – lead acid vs lithium ion. Did you know that another differentiator of batteries is their voltage? In this article, we give an overview of high voltage batteries, their applications and how they fare against low voltage batteries.
What are High Voltage Batteries?
A high voltage battery has a relatively higher energy density when compared to normal batteries. An increase in the energy density of the battery will result in a greater capacity for energy storage. The increase in energy density also allows for the battery to be charged and discharged at a faster rate, have more stable charge cycles and a longer battery life. These batteries allow for the delivery of quick surges of electricity, when required, which is often preferred for present-day equipment.
High voltage batteries have an improved efficiency when compared to normal batteries, as they can charge at a relatively low current, and this does not affect the charge time or cycle. The use of low current allows for protection of the battery, as it prevents overheating and results in an improved energy retention and storage.
What are the applications for high voltage batteries?
High voltage batteries can be used to provide a powerful energy storage system for Uninterrupted Power Supplies (UPS). These batteries are ideal for a UPS device as it has a low discharge rate, high energy density and has the advantage of being able to instantly supply energy to the load when required.
High voltage batteries are also implemented in home energy storage systems because of its efficiency, energy density and storage. Lithium-ion batteries are used in homes as these batteries can supply more charge cycles throughout its lifespan when compared to other battery packs. As these are batteries that are associated with high charge and discharge rates, it makes them ideal to be used for energy saving and storage use. High voltage batteries can be charged with either grid power or a solar system that consists of solar panels, an inverter, and a charge controller.
High voltage batteries are also used as effective power sources for electric vehicles. Lithium high voltage batteries are particularly used in this industry as these are batteries that have a unique charge cycle, thus resulting in a standard electric vehicle having between 2000 to 3000 charge cycles. The high energy density associated with Lithium high voltage batteries allows for an instant release of energy enabling the vehicle to accelerate with immense speed and power. These batteries also charge using low currents, thus reducing the risk of overheating, resulting in better energy retention and release.
What are the technology advancements that occurred in high voltage batteries?
Lithium-ion batteries are preferred because of the high specific energy, high specific power, affordability, long life, safety, wide operating range, low toxicity, and they can charge rapidly. These batteries also require less maintenance but are subject to aging when not in use and issues with regards to transportation has been documented.
The development of Lithium-ion batteries still occurs as research into the use of single crystal cathode materials instead of graphite is being performed. This will be advantageous to the electric vehicle industry as it will allow the battery to have a greater capacity as well as have a longer service life.
Silicon nanowire anodes are used in Lithium-ion products to improve the specific energy of the battery. The change results in the delivery of enhanced watthours per kilogram, which is almost doubled when compared to commercial Lithium-ion batteries. The disadvantage of implementing this is that the cycle life of the battery is limited.
What are the advantages of using high voltage batteries over low voltage batteries?
1. High voltage batteries are rated at 400 V whilst low voltage battery banks have a voltage less than 100V.
2. Low voltage batteries have a greater current amperage when compared to high voltage batteries. This increases the cost as thicker conductors are required.
3. High voltage batteries have a higher energy density, a longer battery life as well as have a higher and stable discharge platform.
4. High voltage batteries can be mass produced whilst still having a good cell consistency.
5. A low voltage system will require more space as well as more connections when compared to a high voltage system.
6. High voltage systems should be implemented for installations that have a large demand. Low voltage systems should be used for off grid applications as well as for customers that want to implement large battery banks with a medium to low demand.
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Sources:
https://www.grepow.com/page/high-voltage-battery.html
https://www.takomabattery.com/the-ultimate-energy-source-high-voltage-battery/#:~:text=A%20high%20voltage%20battery%20is,higher%20capacity%20for%20energy%20storage.
https://energyindustryreview.com/analysis/battery-technology-a-new-era-emerging/
https://www.renvu.com/High-Voltage-vs-Low-Voltage-Batteries
