Everything About LiFePO4 Battery Cells

By Gerald, Updated on January 19, 2024

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If you’re wondering what makes LiFePO4 cells so special, you’re in the right place. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore everything there is to know about LiFePO4 cells, from their basic structure and principles to their diverse applications. We’ll also compare them to other types of batteries and see how they stack up. So, let’s dive right in!

Part 1. What are LiFePO4 cells?

LiFePO4 cells, short for Lithium Iron Phosphate cells, are a type of rechargeable battery. They belong to the broader family of lithium-ion batteries but have some unique characteristics. Lithium iron phosphate is used as the cathode material, while the anode is typically made of carbon (graphite).

Principle and Structure

At the heart of a LiFePO4 cell is a chemical reaction that involves the movement of lithium ions. When the battery discharges, lithium ions travel from the anode to the cathode through the electrolyte, creating an electric current. Conversely, during charging, these ions move back to the anode. This cycle is what powers your devices.

The structure of a LiFePO4 cell includes:

Cathode: Made of lithium iron phosphate.
Anode: Typically made of carbon.
Electrolyte: Facilitates the movement of lithium ions.
Separator: Prevents the anode and cathode from touching while allowing ion flow.

This setup ensures a stable and safe battery, which is why LiFePO4 cells are favored in many applications.

Part 2. LiFePO4 cell advantages

1.Safety

LiFePO4 batteries completely solve the safety hazards of lithium cobalt oxide and lithium manganate, which is reflected in the fact that the binding force of the phosphate chemical bond is stronger than the chemical bond of the traditional transition metal oxide structure. So, the structure is more stable and less likely to release oxygen.

2. Charge

In terms of charging speed, lifepo4 batteries also have more significant advantages. The feature of supporting fast charging allows it to keep a charging speed of at least 2C (C is the charging parameter; for example, for a battery cell with a capacity of 1000mAh, the 2C current is 1000mA×2=2000mA). It can significantly shorten the charging time. Most mobile power supplies currently on the market use a 5V standard charging voltage, and the charging current is usually 0.2C.

3. Cycle Life

Currently, most of the lithium-ion batteries used in mobile power supplies on the market have a cycle life of about 500 to 800 times. Lithium iron phosphate batteries have a service life of at least 2,000 times, and their capacity can be maintained at more than 80%. Therefore, if the internal storage unit of the mobile power supply is a lithium iron phosphate product, it has an absolute advantage of expected service life.

4. Environmentally Friendly

The positive electrode material of LiFePO4 batteries does not contain precious and rare metals, so it is more environmentally friendly and can effectively reduce environmental pollution. In addition, the wide range of material sources also makes its material costs lower and more advantageous in terms of price.

Part 3. LiFePO4 pouch cells

Advantages

LiFePO4 pouch cells are one of the most versatile forms of these batteries. Here are some key benefits:

Lightweight: Pouch cells are generally lighter than their counterparts, which is great for portable devices.
Flexible Design: They can be made in various shapes and sizes to fit different devices.
High Discharge Rate: Suitable for applications that require bursts of power.

Disadvantages

However, pouch cells also have some downsides:

Swelling: Over time, they may swell, which can affect performance and safety.
Less Robust: They are more susceptible to physical damage compared to other cell types.

Part 4. LiFePO4 prismatic cells

Advantages

Prismatic cells are another popular form of LiFePO4 batteries. Here’s why:

Durability: These cells are robust and have a long cycle life, making them very reliable.
High Energy Density: They can store a lot of energy in a relatively small space.
Thermal Management: Prismatic cells have better heat dissipation, which enhances their safety.

Disadvantages

But they’re not without their flaws:

Cost: Prismatic cells are generally more expensive than other forms.
Weight: They tend to be heavier, which can be a drawback in some applications.

Part 5. LiFePO4 Cell Voltage

Understanding the voltage characteristics of LiFePO4 cells is crucial for their proper use and maintenance.

Nominal Voltage: Typically 3.2V.
Charging Voltage: Usually around 3.65V.
Cut-off Voltage (Discharge): Approximately 2.5V.
Storage Voltage: Optimal storage voltage is around 3.2V to 3.3V.

LiFePO4 cells typically operate at a nominal voltage of 3.2V, but depending on the configuration, you can get different voltages:

Single Cell: 3.2V – This is the basic unit.
2S Configuration: 6.4V – Two cells in series.
4S Configuration: 12.8V – Four cells in series.
8S Configuration: 25.6V – Eight cells in series.

These configurations allow for flexibility in designing battery packs for various applications, from small gadgets to large energy storage systems.

Part 6. LiFePO4 cell vs LiFePO4 pack vs LiFePO4 battery

Understanding the differences between a LiFePO4 cell, a pack, and a battery is crucial:

Composition: A single cell is just one battery unit, while a pack contains multiple cells, and a battery is a complete unit ready for use.
Voltage: A cell has a fixed voltage, but packs and batteries can be configured to provide different voltages.
Capacity: Single cells have limited capacity; packs and batteries can store much more energy.
Size: Single cells are compact, but packs and batteries can be quite large.
Use Case: Cells are basic units for simple applications; packs are modular and versatile, while batteries are ready-to-use systems.
Flexibility: Single cells offer the most design flexibility, while complete batteries are less adaptable.
Applications: From small electronics to large-scale energy storage and EVs.

Part 7. How long does LiFePO4 cell last?

One of the standout features of LiFePO4 cells is their impressive lifespan. Typically, these cells last between 5,000 to 7,000 charge cycles. To put that in perspective, if you charge and discharge the battery once a day, it can last for 13 to 20 years. This longevity makes LiFePO4 cells a cost-effective solution for long-term applications, such as renewable energy storage and electric vehicles.

Part 8. Is LiFePO4 cell better than lithium-lon cell?

When comparing LiFePO4 cells to traditional lithium-ion cells, several factors come into play:

1. Safety

LiFePO4 cells are less prone to overheating and are more stable at high temperatures. This makes them safer than typical lithium-ion cells, which can suffer from thermal runaway.

2. Longevity

LiFePO4 cells offer a longer cycle life, typically 2,000 to 3,000 cycles more than standard lithium-ion cells. This means they can last significantly longer.

3. Stability

These cells are more chemically stable and can handle higher temperatures without degrading. This stability translates into better performance and safety.

4. Environmental Impact

LiFePO4 cells use non-toxic materials, making them more environmentally friendly compared to other lithium-ion batteries that may contain cobalt and other harmful substances.

5. Energy Density

However, LiFePO4 cells have a lower energy density, meaning they store less energy for the same weight compared to other lithium-ion cells. This can be a disadvantage in applications where space and weight are critical.

6. Cost

LiFePO4 cells are generally more expensive upfront but can be more cost-effective in the long run due to their longer lifespan and stability.

7. Applications

While lithium-ion cells are widely used in consumer electronics, LiFePO4 cells are preferred in applications where safety and longevity are paramount, such as in electric vehicles and energy storage systems.

Part 9. LiFePO4 cell price

The price of lithium batteries will vary depending on the type of lithium battery. At the same time, the battery quotation will also be different due to the difference between new and old ones. Sometimes, even the same type of lithium batteries are quoted differently by other manufacturers, which is why the quotes for lithium batteries differ.

LiFePO4 cells are generally calculated based on how much it costs per amp hour. Generally, lithium batteries with higher prices are new cells with relatively better performance and quality. In comparison, those with lower prices are likely to be of rather poor quality or maybe secondary cells. Generally, the price of LiFePO4 cells requiring special performance applications, such as low-temperature and high-rate batteries, will be relatively high. The price will be higher if the quotation is for the battery cell plus the protective plate and casing. Of course, the price will be cheaper if more batteries are needed.

Part 10. LiFePO4 cell manufacturer

When it comes to sourcing high-quality LiFePO4 cells, Ufine Battery is a name that stands out. Based in China, Ufine Battery specializes in customizing and producing various types of lithium batteries to meet specific needs. Here’s what they offer:
Lithium-ion Batteries: Versatile and widely used in many applications.

Lithium Polymer Batteries: Known for their lightweight and flexible design.
18650 Batteries: Popular cylindrical cells used in many electronic devices.
Cylindrical Batteries: Available in various sizes and capacities.
Special Shape Batteries: Custom-designed to fit unique applications.
High Temperature Batteries: Designed to operate in extreme conditions.
Low Temperature Batteries: Suitable for cold environments.

Ufine Battery’s ability to tailor batteries to specific sizes, voltages, capacities, and shapes ensures that you get the perfect solution for your needs. This flexibility and customization make them a reliable partner for your battery requirements.

Part 11. Conclusion

LiFePO4 cells are a remarkable technology that offers safety, longevity, and stability. Whether you’re looking for a battery for your smartphone, an electric vehicle, or a large-scale energy storage system, understanding the different types of LiFePO4 cells and their benefits can help you make an informed decision. With manufacturers like Ufine Battery, you can even get customized solutions tailored to your specific needs. So, as you consider your next battery purchase, keep the many advantages of LiFePO4 cells in mind.

Part 12. FAQs

What are the different types of LiFePO4 cells?

The different types of LiFePO4 cells include cylindrical, prismatic, and pouch cells, each with their own form factors and design configurations.
What is the lifespan of a LiFePO4 battery?

The lifespan of a LiFePO4 battery can range from 2000 to 5000 cycles, depending on factors like depth of discharge, charging methods, and operating conditions.
How to charge lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries

To charge LiFePO4 batteries, use a dedicated LiFePO4 charger with the appropriate voltage and current settings, ensuring proper balancing and avoiding overcharging or over-discharging.
What factors affect the lifespan of LiFePO4 batteries?

Factors affecting the lifespan of LiFePO4 batteries include depth of discharge, charging methods, operating temperature, storage conditions, and overall usage patterns.
What can I use LiFePO4 batteries for?

LiFePO4 batteries are commonly used in various applications such as electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), renewable energy storage systems, portable power devices, and backup power supplies due to their high energy density, long lifespan, and safety characteristics.