The Top 25 Lithium Ion Battery Questions Answered!

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-05-11

Understanding lithium ion batteries can be like navigating a labyrinth: Many twists and turns, with no clear way to the end. As technology continues to advance, it's important for people to keep up with the latest advancements in battery power sources. This article will provide an answer key to some of the most common questions about lithium ion batteries, providing readers with information that is as powerful as these energy sources themselves.

The development of lithium-ion batteries has revolutionized modern life; they are now used in everything from cell phones to electric cars. To make sure you're making informed decisions on how best to utilize this form of energy storage, it's important to know what questions you should ask when considering them. In this article, we'll break down 25 of the most commonly asked questions about lithium-ion batteries and provide straightforward answers so readers have a better understanding of their use and safety considerations.

1. How Does A Lithium-Ion Battery Work?

A lithium ion battery consists of an anode, cathode, and electrolyte. The anode is typically made from graphite or other carbon materials while the cathode is composed of a material containing lithium ions such as cobalt oxide. Separating these two components is the electrolyte which allows for the flow of lithium-ions between them when charging and discharging.

When in use, electrons move from the negative anode to the positive cathode through an external circuit allowing current to be drawn out of the battery, providing power to whatever device it is connected to. Reversing this process causes electrons to travel back into the battery via the same circuit enabling it to be charged again. Lithium ions also migrate across this internal barrier resulting in a chemical reaction that stores energy within its cells until released again when needed.

2. How Long Can A Lithium-Ion Battery Last?

The lifespan of a lithium-ion battery depends on many factors, including the type of cell used, environmental conditions, and charging habits. Here are four key elements that affect the longevity of lithium-ion batteries:

1. The capacity at which it is charged.
2. The frequency with which it is discharged and recharged.
3. The environmental temperature in which it is stored or used.
4. Quality of the cells contained within the battery pack.

When using a high-quality lithium-ion battery correctly and consistently, its life expectancy can be up to 10 years or more depending on usage patterns and environmental conditions. In order for users to take full advantage of lithium-ion batteries, it is best to keep them at a temperature between 15°C - 25°C (68°F - 77°F) when using lithium-ion batteries. If they are not used for a long time, the voltage level needs to be checked regularly Will make sure the battery is not over-discharged.

3. What Is The Biggest Disadvantage Of Lithium-Ion Batteries?

Although lithium-ion batteries have the advantage of high energy density, their biggest disadvantage is that they are prone to thermal runaway.. When the temperature rises and the chemical reaction inside the battery causes the temperature to rise further, the battery will become unstable and even explode or catch fire. Therefore, proper charging protocols must always be followed, and the lithium battery manufacturers must incorporate safety features such as temperature sensing devices and current limiters into their products.

Also, while lithium-ion batteries are not as affected by the memory effect as nickel-based batteries are, they still experience some degree of capacity loss over time due to cycling patterns and aging. Therefore, regular maintenance and replacement cycles should be factored into any long-term usage plan involving these batteries.

4. What Kills Li-Ion Batteries?

(1) Extreme temperature

Heat has a significant impact on lithium ion battery life. When exposed to high temperatures, the internal electrolyte begins to break down more quickly than usual, causing increased corrosion and reduced capacity over time. Keeping devices away from direct sunlight or other sources of heat is essential for maintaining optimal performance.

Additionally, charging them in extreme cold will cause permanent damage as the reaction rate slows down significantly at lower temperatures. It&#;s important not simply to avoid extremes but also to maintain an optimal storage temperature between 40-45 degrees Celsius (104 -113 Fahrenheit).

(2) Physical damage

Not only does temperature affect Li-ion batteries, but so too does physical stress such as shock or vibration. Allowing a device to drop onto hard surfaces can cause short-circuiting due to pressure placed on certain areas of the cell where contacts meet and disrupt stability within the circuit board itself.

Similarly, exposure to water can introduce foreign elements that corrode components like copper wiring leading to further disruption in current flow throughout the system if left unaddressed. Taking proper care of a device by handling with caution and keeping it dry is paramount for longevity.

5. Can Lithium-Ion Batteries Explode?

Lithium-ion batteries contain a combustible material and thus, have the potential to be dangerous when not handled properly. This raises an important question: can lithium-ion batteries explode?

The answer is yes; however, there are several factors that affect the likelihood of this happening. The following table provides more information about these contributing factors:

Contributing FactorsDetailsHigh TemperaturesHeat causes degradation in battery cells which increases the risk of fire or explosion.OverchargingThe excessive voltage applied to battery cells damages them and increases the possibility of fire/explosion.Manufacturing DefectsPoor quality control during production can result in faulty cells with an increased risk of combustion.Physical DamageDamaged casing exposes internal components leading to short circuits and increased chances of combustion.

Lithium-ion batteries should always be stored at room temperature, charged within their specified limits and regularly inspected for any physical damage. Additionally, they should only be purchased from reputable sources as defects due to poor manufacturing standards could lead to catastrophic incidents such as explosions or fires. Following these precautions will help minimize risks associated with using lithium-ion batteries.

6. Do Lithium-Ion Batteries Leak?

Yes, generally leaking of lithium-ion batteries can be caused by several factors, such as overcharging or prolonged use at high temperatures. When lithium ions escape from the cells, they may cause damage to surrounding objects or people.

The good news is that modern lithium-ion batteries are designed with safety features that help reduce the chance of leakage occurring. These include temperature sensors that cut off charging if it reaches an unsafe level and pressure valves that act as a release mechanism should too much gas build up inside the cell.

7. Can A Li-Ion Battery Be Left On The Charger Overnight?

No, it is not recommended to leave them charging for extended periods of time, as this can reduce battery life and even cause damage if done repeatedly over long intervals.

In general, Li-Ion batteries should be removed from their chargers when they reach full capacity&#;typically indicated by an LED light or other indicator. Leaving them in the charger beyond this point increases internal heat generation which causes permanent damage to their cells. It also accelerates the natural aging process of these batteries; reducing both charge capacity and cycle life expectancy each time they are left connected to power unnecessarily.

When charging your device&#;s Li-Ion battery, make sure you monitor its progress until it reaches full capacity and promptly disconnect it once completed. Following this practice will ensure longer battery life while avoiding any potential hazards associated with leaving Li-Ion batteries on their chargers for too long.

8. What Is The Difference Between A Lithium Battery And A Lithium-Ion Battery?

Lithium batteries and lithium-ion batteries are two types of rechargeable power sources used in a variety of applications. Lithium batteries use metallic lithium as an active ingredient, while lithium-ion batteries have a battery cell composed of different materials including graphite or carbon. The main difference between these two is that the former relies on a chemical reaction to generate electricity, while the latter uses electrochemical processes to do so.

The advantage of using lithium-ion technology over other types of rechargeables is its higher energy density, which allows for longer run times with fewer charges per cycle. Additionally, it offers improved safety features such as thermal runaway protection and better performance due to its low self-discharge rate. This makes them particularly useful for portable electronics like smartphones, tablets, and laptops where weight and size are important considerations. When compared to nickel-metal hydride or lead acid cells, they offer superior efficiency and charge capacity at a lower cost.

9. How To Recycle Lithium-Ion Batteries?

Recycling lithium-ion batteries is an important part of protecting our environment and conserving resources. Lithium-ion batteries are used in many common devices, including cell phones, laptops, cameras and power tools. Recycling these batteries can help reduce the amount of waste going into landfills and conserve valuable raw materials.

1. The recycling process begins when the battery arrives at a specialized facility that collects and processes them for reuse or dismantling.
2. The batteries are then disassembled to separate the metals from other components like plastic housing or insulation material.
3. Metals such as copper, aluminum, steel and nickel are extracted from the cells so they can be recycled back into new products.
4. In some cases, even hazardous materials like heavy metals may also need to be safely removed before disposal.
5. Finally, any remaining pieces are disposed of responsibly according to local regulations.

10. What Is The Charge Time For A Li-Ion Battery?

The charge time for a Li-ion battery is dependent on the type and capacity of the battery, as well as the charging current. Generally speaking, it usually takes around 4 hours to fully charge a standard Li-ion cell with 1A (mA) of current.

Here are some important points about charging Li-ion batteries:

• A higher rate of current will result in a quicker charge time.
• Rapid chargers can recharge up to 80% in 15 minutes or less.
• When using an external charger, always follow the manufacturer's recommended settings.

When considering how long it will take to charge your device&#;s battery, be sure to use the appropriate power adapter that matches its voltage requirements and allows you to adjust the output amperage accordingly. Furthermore, make sure not to overcharge your battery by disconnecting it once it has reached full capacity. This way you can ensure maximum performance and lifetime from your Li-ion battery while keeping yourself safe from potential hazards associated with prolonged exposure to high voltages.

11. How To Prolong The Service Life Of Lithium-Ion Batteries?

With its many advantages, such as lightweight and long-lasting power, lithium-ion batteries are becoming increasingly popular in a variety of devices. Knowing some simple steps can help keep your Li-ion battery working optimally for years to come.

(1) Charge correctly

The first step in prolonging the service life of a Li-ion battery is proper charging habits. It's important that you follow your device's manufacturer's instructions when charging and use only the recommended charger or adapter provided with the device. Additionally, avoid overcharging by unplugging once fully charged and don't leave your device plugged in overnight. Too much current can damage cells within the battery and reduce its capacity significantly over time.

(2) Suitable temperature environment

Keeping temperature extremes away from any type of rechargeable battery is essential for optimal performance and longevity. This means avoiding leaving batteries outside during extreme temperatures like cold winters or hot summers and not exposing them to heat sources such as ovens or fireplaces.

In addition, always store Li-ion batteries at room temperature ideally between 40°F (4°C) and 77°F (25°C). Storing them at higher or lower temperatures may cause permanent damage to the cells inside leading to reduced capacity levels or even complete failure after multiple charge cycles.

12. Can I Use A Different Charger For My Li-Ion Battery?

Charging a Li-ion battery with the wrong charger can be dangerous and damaging. Battery manufacturers usually recommend using only chargers that are specifically designed for their products, as these have been tested to operate safely and efficiently. A charger should not exceed the maximum voltage or current rating of the battery; otherwise, it may cause overheating and/or fire hazards. It is also important to remember that some batteries require special charging techniques such as overcharging protection, trickle charge, and temperature monitoring.

Using an incompatible charger may cause irreversible damage to the Li-ion battery, so choosing a suitable Li-ion battery charger is an essential part of maintaining Li-ion batteries. In general, users should stick with original equipment manufacturer (OEM) chargers whenever possible since they are typically well-designed and tested by professionals. Additionally, you can always consult user manuals or contact customer service departments if unsure which type of charger is suitable for use with a specific Li-ion battery model.

13. What Is The Capacity Of A Lithium-Ion Battery?

The capacity of a lithium-ion battery is an important factor to consider when choosing the right power source for your device. Understanding how much energy a battery can store and how long it will last under certain conditions is essential in ensuring that you make the most efficient use of your batteries. To put it simply, capacity indicates how much-stored energy is available from a given battery.

CapacityDescriptionmAh (milliampere-hour)A unit that describes charge or electric current over time. It reflects the amount of electric charge a battery can carry at its rated voltage. For example, if a 3V Li-Ion cell has a mAh rating, then it means that this cell can deliver 1mA for hours or 2A for hours before discharging completely.Wh (watt-hours)A unit used to measure the total amount of electrical energy consumed by an appliance during one hour period. So if an appliance consumes 5W of electricity per hour, then it would consume 5Wh per hour. The higher the wattage, the faster the appliance will consume the energy stored in the battery pack.

14. Can I Overcharge A Li-Ion Battery?

No, if left in a charging state for an extended period of time at a high voltage, there can be damage caused to the cells due to excessive heat generation from overcharging. This can cause permanent cell and circuit board damage, leading to reduced performance and even shortened life expectancy for the battery.

To avoid this issue, users should always use a quality charger designed specifically for their type of Li-Ion battery with safety features such as auto shutoff when reaching full charge. Additionally, Li-Ion batteries should never be charged unsupervised since they are sensitive and require careful monitoring during charging cycles. Proper maintenance habits including regularly checking and replacing faulty chargers will help ensure optimal performance and long-term durability of your Li-Ion batteries.

15. What Is The Difference Between Lithium-Ion Batteries And Lead-Acid Batteries?

The difference between lithium-ion batteries and lead-acid batteries is significant. Lithium-ion batteries are a rechargeable battery technology, while lead-acid batteries are disposable. Lead-acid batteries have been around for more than 100 years and are one of the most popular types of battery due to their lower cost and relative simplicity. They can be found in automotive applications as well as consumer electronics like flashlights or radios.

In contrast, lithium-ion batteries offer higher energy density, lighter weight, longer life spans and faster charging times compared to their lead-acid counterparts. Additionally, they do not suffer from the memory effect (the gradual decrease in capacity over time) which has long plagued nickel-cadmium (NiCd) cells. As such, lithium-ion technology is increasingly being used in laptops and other portable devices that require high-performance power sources. Furthermore, these same qualities make them an attractive option for electric vehicles since they provide a greater range per charge than traditional internal combustion engine cars. In summary, lithium ion batteries offer several advantages over lead acid cells but come with a higher price tag attached.

16. How To Store Lithium-Ion Batteries?

To properly store lithium-ion batteries and keep them performing optimally, attention must be paid to three key areas: temperature, charge state, and location.

(1) Temperature

The temperature has a direct correlation with battery life and performance, too hot or cold can have drastic effects on their capacity and longevity. Room temperatures between 15°C-25°C are ideal for storing lithium-ion cells, any lower could cause degraded performance while higher temperatures could lead to permanent damage.

(2) Charge state

Storing fully charged or completely discharged batteries for extended periods of time can degrade their long-term health significantly; it&#;s best practice to only recharge when necessary or discharge down to 30%-50% before storage. This rule applies even more so if you plan on leaving your device unused for an extended period of time (more than two weeks).

(3) Location

Where you physically store your batteries matters as well as avoid humid environments that may put them at risk of developing mold or corrosion. Additionally, keeping them away from metal objects reduces the chance of short-circuiting which can cause irreparable damage. Following these simple steps should help ensure your lithium-ion batteries stay healthy and productive throughout their lifetime.

Are you interested in learning more about lithium ion polymer battery? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

17. Can I Use My Device While Charging The Li-Ion Battery?

The answer to this question is yes, you can use your device while charging its lithium-ion battery. This is because the charge rate for most lithium-ion batteries is safe and will not cause any damage if used during charging. However, it should be noted that using the device while charging may reduce the life of the battery over time due to increased heat generated from both activities occurring simultaneously. Here are five tips for safely using your device while it charges:

• Ensure that you&#;re using the correct charger for your device; incorrect chargers could potentially damage your battery or even start a fire.
• Try to avoid intensive tasks such as gaming or streaming videos while charging as they can generate additional heat which in turn reduces the lifespan of your battery.
• Check regularly on your device to make sure it's not getting too hot if so, switch it off immediately and let cool down before continuing charging.
• Unplug when fully charged - letting a li-ion battery remain connected after full charge causes unnecessary stress on its cells leading to quicker degradation in performance and capacity over time.
• Using an external power source where possible connecting directly to mains electricity rather than through a laptop or computer is safer and more efficient at providing a consistent power supply without putting strain on either device's internal components or battery cell structure.

Charging a Li-Ion battery whilst using your device does come with some risk however following these simple steps can help keep you safe and extend the life of your batteries significantly!

18. What Is The Voltage Of A Li-Ion Battery?

The voltage of a Li-ion battery is determined by its chemistry; the most common chemistries used for Li-ion cells include lithium cobalt oxide (LCO), lithium manganese oxide (LMO), polymer, and nickel metal hydride (NiMH).

ChemistryVoltageCapacityLCO3.6 V mAhLMO3.7 V mAhPolymer3.65 V mAhNiMH1.2 V mAh

The typical nominal cell voltage of an Li-ion battery ranges from 2.75 to 4.20 volts per cell depending on the specific cell chemistry being used. This means that if one was using four cells with a capacity of mAh each, then the total rated capacity would be mAh at a 14.4V nominal voltage level for this configuration. Furthermore, different manufacturers use slightly different voltages which can also impact the overall performance of the device they are powering.

It is important to note that Li-ion batteries should never be discharged below their minimum safe operating voltage as this will greatly reduce their lifetime and increase the risk of fire or explosion due to excessive heat buildup inside the pack during charging cycles afterward. It is therefore recommended to always charge them above their minimum safe discharge rating when possible in order to ensure maximum safety and optimal performance over time.

19. What Happens If I Puncture A Li-Ion Battery?

Puncturing a Li-Ion battery can have disastrous consequences. According to the National Fire Protection Agency, in there were over 18,000 reported cases of lithium ion batteries causing fires and explosions across America; 80% of which could be attributed to puncture damage.

To avoid catastrophic damage it is important to understand what happens when you puncture a Li-Ion battery:

1. The electrolytes may start leaking from the battery cell if pierced
2. Short circuits are likely to occur due to the metals coming into contact with each other
3. If left unattended, this short circuit can lead to thermal runaway resulting in an explosion or fire
4. Chemical burns can also potentially result from direct contact with electrolyte leakage

The risks associated with puncturing Li-Ion batteries cannot be underestimated. In addition to presenting physical danger, like chemical burns or even death by electrocution, any attempts at tampering or piercing these cells will most certainly void warranty coverage as well as reduce their overall performance capability. It is therefore recommended that only qualified professionals handle such activities on your behalf and never attempt any DIY repairs yourself on these types of batteries.

20. Can I Use Li-Ion Batteries In Extreme Temperatures?

No, the optimal temperature range for Li-Ion batteries lies between 0°C (32°F) and 45°C (113°F). Temperatures outside this range may cause the cells to overheat or freeze, leading to permanent damage.

In order to prevent heat buildup, make sure that any device containing a Li-Ion battery has adequate ventilation and never leave them in direct sunlight or near any heat source. When storing Li-Ion batteries, keep them at room temperature with 30% charge remaining on the cell.

Additionally, avoid discharging them completely as doing so will reduce their lifespan significantly. To protect against cold weather conditions, place the cells inside an insulated container like those used for camping trips or picnics. This way they stay warm enough not to suffer from freezing temperatures but not hot enough to risk battery failure.

21. How Do I Know When My Li-Ion Battery Is Fully Charged?

One of the easiest ways to determine if your Li-ion battery is fully charged is by examining the indicator light on your charger or device itself.

This light typically changes color when the charging process is complete. If no such light exists, then checking the voltage levels with a multimeter should give an accurate reading of whether the charging cycle has concluded.

Furthermore, if possible, taking advantage of built-in monitoring systems may be beneficial as they are capable of providing more detailed information regarding current and past cycles experienced by a particular battery.

22. Can Lithium-Ion Batteries That Have Not Been Used For A Long Time Still Be Used?

Like an unused car engine, lithium-ion batteries that have not been used for a long time may need a little extra care when being brought back into use. Studies show that long periods of inactivity can cause the battery to degrade and lose its ability to hold a charge. However, if the battery is properly charged before use it will be able to maintain its capacity over time.

There are several steps you can take to activate your dormant Li-ion battery to have the best chance of success.

• First, ensure the battery is fully charged prior to using it. This prevents any damage caused by attempting to power up with insufficient charge levels.
• Additionally, users should avoid storing their batteries in extreme temperatures or humidity as this could lead to permanent damage and reduce performance drastically.
• Finally, allow ample time for charging and discharging cycles when bringing the battery back into service; this help keep cells balanced and maximize efficiency.

Taking these precautions helps bring old lithium-ion batteries back up to speed without causing further harm to them. With proper maintenance and handling, they'll provide reliable power just like they did when brand new!

23. How Does The Size Of A Li-Ion Battery Affect Its Performance?

The size of a lithium-ion battery affects its performance in two key ways. Firstly, the capacity of a Li-ion battery is determined by its volume or mass. This means that its energy density will be lower than larger batteries with the same chemistry. Therefore, smaller batteries are less likely to provide enough power for applications requiring high current draws and long runtimes such as electric vehicles (EVs).

Secondly, the size of a Li-ion battery also determines the amount of cycles it can withstand before failing due to degradation caused by internal resistance increases over time. Smaller cells tend to have higher internal resistances which cause them to heat up faster when charged or discharged at higher currents than larger ones. This results in shorter life cycles due to increased wear and tear on the cell&#;s components causing early failure.

It is clear that choosing an appropriately sized Li-ion battery for any given application is important for both safety reasons and optimal performance. In addition, factors such as cost and availability should also be taken into account when selecting a suitable model for specific requirements.

24. What Are The Charging Rules For Lithium-Ion Batteries?

The first rule is that it&#;s important to charge them properly right out of the box; this means waiting until they are fully discharged before initiating the first full charge cycle. This helps condition them so they can be used optimally over time.

Afterward, users should avoid &#;trickle charging or leaving the battery plugged into an outlet for long periods. This practice reduces life expectancy by causing oxidation on the positive electrode surface and overheating some components as well.

Instead, users should opt for &#;cycling or regular discharge/recharge cycles at least once per month. Additionally, it is recommended to always try and maintain a 50% state of charge if possible since extended storage with either too much or too little energy results in degradation due to chemical reactions occurring inside the cells when not being used.

Finally, never leave a Li-Ion cell completely drained because doing so may cause permanent damage and render it unusable.

25. Should Lithium Batteries Be Stored Fully Charged?

It is important to understand the optimal storage conditions for lithium-ion batteries.

• Suitable storage environment: Batteries should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or any other heat source.
• The proper state of charge: Store batteries at a 40% state of charge rather than fully charged, a high charge will cause an increase in temperature which can lead to an increased rate of self-discharge which can lead to overcharging and a thermal runaway reaction may cause a fire hazard. Additionally, keeping the battery partially charged allows for more efficient charge cycles, which means less stress on the battery during charging.
• Suitable ambient temperature: Prolonged exposure to high temperatures, especially when fully charged, can cause irreversible damage to Li-ion batteries, reducing their capacity and even causing them to fail completely.

Therefore, while it may be tempting to keep those extra electrons locked inside your device's battery, ultimately it&#;s best practice not only for your own safety but also for maintaining your lithium-ion battery's overall health and longevity.

HARVEYPOW Lifepo4 Battery VS Lithium ion Battery

Lifepo4 battery is also a type of lithium-ion battery. Through the comparison in the figure below, we can see that lifepo4 battery is superior to other lithium-ion batteries in terms of safety, heat resistance, lifespan, and environmental protection.

PerformanceOther Lithium ion BatteriesLifepo4 BatteriesLife cycles300--Depth of discharge80%-90%90%-95%Self-discharge rate5%3%SafetyCan catch fire or explodeLittle chance of overheatingEnvironmentally FriendlyContains Toxic SubstancesWithout Any Toxic Substances

The HARVEYPOW lifepo4 battery is based on the battery cells of the world giant CATL to create a top-notch solar energy storage system with a cycle rate of up to 8,000 times, and IP65. We are confident in providing a 12-YEAR WARRANTY.

"High efficiency, energy saving, green" is our brand tenet, which is why we produce high-quality solar energy storage products for the industry. Any shoddy products are tantamount to increasing environmental pollution, rather than promoting global green energy. Through the factory's transparent production line and multi-layer quality inspection checkpoints, HARVEYPOW is willing to track the production situation for customers throughout the process, and can provide each product's shipment inspection data sheet to ensure that the product is safe and secure to use.

So, you don't have to hesitate, the Top Chinese lithium battery manufacturer of HARVEYPOW can accept the minimum order quantity of 1 set, and is committed to every family having their own green energy.

Contact us to start your green and efficient energy journey!

The global lithium batteries market is due to quadruple by . With lithium batteries becoming a more popular power source, from small electronics to electric cars, how to ship lithium batteries safely is a growing concern.

Lithium batteries can often be incorrectly packaged or labeled, leading to fines and loss of business. Our latest white paper &#;Make Lithium Batteries Safe to Ship&#; tells you all of what you need to know about this critical area, from the different chemistries involved to the many solutions on offer across the value chain. Download the lithium battery whitepaper.

Why Does it Cost More to Ship Lithium Batteries by air?

Lithium batteries are able to possess a lot of stored energy, and they tend to have a chemical composition that can present a hazard when being charged, used, or are damaged. To keep the aviation industry safe, there are additional measures which are applied when transporting lithium batteries. The costs of ensuring compliance and the safe carriage of lithium batteries on aircraft are more than non-lithium batteries.

Can I Ship Lithium Batteries by Airmail? 

No, you cannot send lithium batteries, by themselves, in the airmail. You will need to contact your local postal authority to see if you be able to ship them by surface methods i.e. sea, road and rail. If you have to send the lithium batteries by air, then you will need to send them with a freight company.

Can I Ship Lithium Batteries that are contained in equipment, such as a mobile , by Airmail? 

Providing the postal authority has received approval from their Civil Aviation Authority, then you may be able to send items which contain lithium batteries. Power banks, which contain lithium batteries and which are used to recharge or power other devices, are categorised as lithium batteries and are not permitted under this provision.

How Do I Safely Package Lithium Batteries for Transport? 

Selecting suitable packaging, and then packing the batteries safely, is a key component to safely transporting lithium batteries. For larger batteries, the packaging may need to UN specifications. What type packaging you need is not a &#;one size fits all&#; answer. The battery type, quantity of batteries, the quality of the packaging, and the ability of the package to withstand a drop test and a stacking test, all need to be addressed when sending lithium batteries as freight.

What Labelling and Marking is required to Send a Package of Lithium Batteries?

All lithium battery shipments must be clearly labeled and marked appropriately according to IATA regulations. No matter which marks or labels are required, lithium battery labeling and marks must be placed on the packages or overpacks so they are not obstructed. They must also be durable, legible, and easily identifiable. You can find the lithium battery marking and labeling guidelines inside Section 7 of the latest copy of the Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) or the Lithium Battery Shipping Regulations (LBSR).

What do the Lithium Battery Marks and Labels Look Like? 

The lithium battery mark is required as specified in the DGR. The border of the mark must have red diagonal hatchings with a minimum width of 5mm. The symbol (group of batteries, one damaged and emitting flame, above the UN number for lithium ion or lithium metal batteries or cells) must be black on white or a suitable contrasting background. The lithium battery mark may be printed directly on the outer packaging provided that there is sufficient contrast between the elements of the lithium battery mark and the colour of the packaging material. The mark must be in the form of a rectangle or a square with minimum dimensions of 100 mm x 100 mm. If the size of the package so requires, the dimensions/line thickness may be reduced to not less than 100 mm wide × 70 mm high.

 

The Lithium Battery label is required for consignments which have a larger number, or more powerful, batteries. The Lithium Battery label is also specified in the IATA DGR. The label must be in the form of a square set at 45° (diamond shaped). The minimum dimensions must be 100x100 mm. There must be a line inside the edge forming the diamond, which must be parallel and approximately 5mm from the outside of that line to the edge of the label. The line inside the edge on the upper half of the label the line must be the same colour as the symbol and the line inside the edge on the lower half of the label must be the same colour as the class or division number in the bottom corner. The symbol on the upper half of the label will be seven vertical black stripes. The lower half is to include the symbol for the battery group, with one broken and emitting flame, and the class number.

What Are the Various Types of Lithium Batteries? 

Lithium batteries fall into two broad classifications; lithium metal batteries and lithium-ion batteries. Lithium metal batteries are generally non-rechargeable and contain metallic lithium. Lithium-ion batteries contain lithium which is only present in an ionic form in the electrolyte and are rechargeable. Within these two broad classifications, there are many different chemistries. For example, within lithium-ion batteries there are lithium polymer, lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4), and lithium air to name a few.

What Is the Difference Between a Lithium Cell and a Lithium Battery? 

A lithium cell is a single encased electrochemical unit consisting of one positive and one negative electrode that exhibits a voltage differential across the two terminals. A lithium battery is two or more cells electrically connected. A single cell battery is considered a cell and not a battery for the purposes of the limitations set out in the DGR.

What to Know About Shipping Lithium Batteries by Air

While classified as a dangerous good, lithium battery shipping takes very specific requirements. that you can find inside the Dangerous Goods Regulations. However, if you only ship lithium batteries you can purchase the Lithium Batteries Shipping Regulations as a standalone manual. Knowing the specific regulations is crucial in the shipping and handling of lithium batteries. 

What is a Dangerous Good?

Dangerous goods are articles or substances that might pose a hazard to health, safety, property, or the environment. Extra care must be taken when shipping dangerous goods by air to avoid these possible hazards. You can find a list of 3,500+ dangerous goods in IATA&#;s Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR).

Are Lithium Batteries Hazardous to Ship?

While lithium batteries are commonly used today, they meet the classification criteria set out by the United Nations, and are classified as a dangerous good. Lithium batteries have the potential to be a source of heat, sparks, or even fire, so prescribed instructions for packing lithium batteries have been produced and implemented. Lithium battery shipments are subject to international packing and shipping safety regulations, and when not followed, fines and other penalties may be incurred.  

Who Determines the Regulations?

IATA works diligently to create the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations and IATA Lithium Battery Shipping Regulations, both easy-to-read references of current rules based on the International Civil Aviation Organization&#;s (ICAO) Technical Instructions for the Safe Transportation of Dangerous Goods by Air and the United Nations (UN) Model Regulations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods and the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria.

Who Do the Regulations Affect?

Regulations for shipping lithium batteries by air are in place to protect everyone who would come in contact with a lithium battery shipment while it is being transported as air cargo; with training being required for everyone in this supply chain, to protect the aircraft, and the people in the aircraft, that is carrying the batteries. The shipper bears the responsibility to safely pack, label, mark the lithium battery shipment and declare as per the Regulations. Find more information about that in our article What to Know About How to Ship Lithium Batteries.

Do You Need a Certification to Ship Lithium Batteries?

Being appropriately trained in the aspects of dangerous goods, and assessed as being competent, are important key steps in aviation safety. If you are only involved in shipping lithium batteries, then there is no value in learning how to ship all classes of dangerous goods. Evidence of having completed the training and assessment for shipping lithium batteries is required by a number of freight organizations before they will accept your shipment. This lithium battery certification ensures that you have been provided with the correct information for safely preparing and shipping lithium batteries and that you are able to read, interpret and apply the regulations and to prepare a shipment that complies with the DGR.

Do You Need to Be Certified to Handle Lithium Batteries?

Shippers aren&#;t the only ones who need lithium battery certification, however. When shipping lithium batteries by air, many people come in contact with them, and they must all be trained and certified in the safe handling of lithium batteries. This includes freight forwarders, cargo handling facilities, and airlines alike. 

How Do You Get Dangerous Goods Certification?

For proper training on dangerous goods including the Shipping Lithium Batteries by Air course, IATA offers a wide variety of safety courses to ensure you are competent in dealing with dangerous goods. This is required for all who participate in the shipping and handling of dangerous goods.

If you are a business, you take the CEIV (Center of Excellence for Independent Validators) lithium battery certification to get lithium battery certification. This certification program is designed so that shippers, freight forwarders, cargo handling facilities, and airlines can meet their safety obligations while complying with the most current regulations. Re-certification happens every two years.

Why Are The Regulations Updated Every Year?

The aviation safety environment is being continuously monitored for emerging threats and risks as well as changes in recommendations and instructions from international bodies. For the safety of our aircraft and the people being carried in them, it is necessary to maintain a regular cycle to keep the DGR up to date. The cycle is based on the calendar year and includes some lead time for the aviation industry and cargo supply chain to prepare for upcoming changes that improve safety. There is provision for exceptional updates where an unacceptable risk to aviation has been identified.

What Else You Should Know About Shipping Lithium Batteries by Air

Due to the high energy density of lithium batteries, usage of lithium-ion batteries is expected to increase elevenfold between and . With that being the case, it is imperative that shippers, transporters, and ground operation personnel all become well-trained in the regulations surrounding their safe transport.

Get your copy of IATA&#;s latest edition of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations and IATA Lithium Battery Shipping Regulations today.

 

 

 

If you want to learn more, please visit our website Lithium Storage.