Can i charge a lithium battery with a normal charger
As the transition from lead-acid batteries to lithium batteries is gaining momentum, some people have opted to switch from lead-acid battery electric vehicles to lithium-ion battery electric vehicles. However, it is important to note that a normal charger cannot be used to charge a lithium battery in most cases.
Lead-acid battery chargers are typically designed for two-stage or three-stage charging, and the voltage levels they provide are not compatible with lithium batteries. There are various types of lithium batteries available, each with different performance characteristics and battery protection parameters. Consequently, there are no universal chargers for lithium batteries like there are for lead-acid batteries. Generally, lithium batteries come with specialized chargers when purchased, and it is essential to use these chargers to ensure the proper charging and protection of the battery.
Lead-acid battery chargers increase the charging voltage by around 5% during constant current charging to overcome the high internal resistance of lead-acid batteries. If the same voltage charger is used for a lithium-ion battery, the voltage will be higher. This increase in voltage is unfavorable for the lithium-ion battery as it can impact its efficiency and overall performance.
Many lead-acid chargers have desulfation and equalization stages built-in, which involve applying high voltages (15.3-15.8V) to the battery. While this is necessary for correctly charging and maintaining lead-acid batteries, it is not suitable for LiFePO4 batteries (a type of lithium battery). Such high voltage charging can significantly reduce the lifespan of the lithium cells or cause irreversible damage.
Some lead-acid chargers have an automatic equalization stage that cannot be turned off. When this stage is activated, it triggers the high voltage disconnect protection mode in most LiFePO4 batteries with an internal Battery Management System (BMS), causing the battery to disconnect and the charger and loads to turn off. This process repeats until the battery resets, which can result in poor charge performance and prolonged charging periods.
Standard battery chargers are not capable of providing the necessary voltage and current for charging Li-Ion batteries. To ensure optimal performance and longevity of lithium batteries, it is recommended to use chargers specifically designed for lithium batteries.
Here are some precautions to consider when charging lithium batteries:
To prolong the life of the lithium battery, it is advisable to charge and discharge it regularly. It is recommended to develop the habit of charging electric vehicles after using 80% of the battery capacity and not waiting until the battery is fully depleted before charging. Additionally, lithium batteries should not be stored for extended periods without charging.
When charging the rechargeable battery of an electric vehicle, ensure that the electric door lock is closed, and avoid turning the battery upside down. It is best to charge the battery fully in one session and avoid multiple partial charges.
It is not recommended to store electronic devices in a discharged state. Therefore, when the battery is not in use, it is important to fully charge it at least once a month.
Charging lithium batteries requires using a compatible charger. The battery materials and production processes differ from those of lead-acid batteries, resulting in distinct technical requirements for the charger. Therefore, using a dedicated charger specifically designed for lithium batteries is crucial for maximizing battery life and preventing safety risks.
When the lithium battery is depleted, it is advisable to turn off the power supply and avoid using the recovery voltage to continue riding. This helps prevent significant power loss and extends the battery life.
When charging the lithium battery of an electric vehicle, it is not recommended to immediately stop charging once the charging indicator shows that the battery is fully charged.