Demystifying Battery Health
Shubham Mishra
Solving a Trillion $ Energy Problem with AI (Stealth) | Built EV DOCTOR?
We take care of our health, but not our batteries...!!
Right..?
By thinking in depth, I found a very interesting insight.
The problem is not that we don't want to, the reason is we don't know how to.
The importance of battery health in electric vehicles (EVs) cannot be overstated. As the primary source of power for EVs, the battery's condition directly impacts the vehicle's performance, efficiency, and overall lifespan. As the battery is the heart of these electric vehicles , owning an electric vehicle makes the user accountable to maintain its battery health..??
This article delves into the critical aspects of battery health, its significance, and how it influences the electric vehicle industry.
Lets brush up the basics of EV Battery Health
Electric vehicles rely on lithium-ion batteries, which are known for their resilience and ability to last at least a decade before needing replacement . These batteries are the heart of the EV, providing the power needed for electric propulsion. Unlike internal combustion engines, which require regular maintenance, EV batteries are simpler, more reliable, and generally cheaper to maintain.
There is a solid electrolyte interface (SEI) layer, which is a crucial component of lithium-ion batteries, particularly for the anode, as it forms on the surface of the anode. The SEI layer is formed during the first cycle of the cell, resulting in a ~10% reduction in capacity, but then serves to prevent further degradation while the battery is at rest or during cycle aging. The growth of the SEI layer can lead to pore blockage and a non-linear drop-off in cell capacity, particularly at higher current loads.
The SEI layer can also hinder the transport of Li-ions, which is critical for the fast charging/discharging capability of electrode materials, particularly for future electric vehicle applications.
Factors Impacting Battery Health
Several factors influence the health and lifespan of EV batteries.
These include:
- Battery Chemistry: The specific chemical composition of the battery plays a crucial role in its performance and longevity.
- Temperature: Extreme temperatures can interfere with the chemical processes that generate electrical energy, affecting battery performance. Ideal operating temperatures for EV batteries are between 68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Charging Cycles: The number of times a battery is charged and discharged can impact its health. Over time, this can lead to a reduction in the battery's ability to store energy.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance, including testing the battery's condition, can help identify and address potential issues early on, prolonging the battery's lifespan.
Battery Degradation and Health Parameters
Battery degradation is a natural process that reduces the amount of energy a battery can store or deliver over time. This degradation is primarily observed in the battery's ability to store energy, not in its power delivery capacity. The condition of a battery is measured by its State of Health (SOH), which starts at 100% and decreases as the battery ages.
Is SoH value enough for getting an idea about health of battery..?
It's the direct representation of capacity loss not the real health.
Its like saying a 22 year person an old guy, if he can't run much. The health can't just be decided depending on capability to run.
There are n number of parameters which are revealed during detailed body checkup.
Similarly, for batteries overall health should to be estimated using proper technology and methods.
The Role of Battery Health in EV Lifecycle
Understanding and managing battery health is crucial for several reasons:
- Vehicle Residual Value: The health of an EV's battery directly affects its residual value, which is a significant factor in the vehicle's overall cost.
- Maximum Usable Range: Battery degradation impacts the vehicle's maximum usable range, influencing the vehicle's practicality and utility for daily use.
- Manufacturer Expectations: Manufacturers design EVs with specific expectations regarding battery lifespan and charging distance. Proper battery health management ensures that these expectations are met, affecting maintenance schedules and warranties.
Monitoring and Maintaining Battery Health
Regular monitoring of a battery's condition is essential for maintaining its health. EV owners can use various apps to test their car's battery health, compare their usage to other users, and identify potential performance issues.
Maintaining the health of an electric vehicle (EV) battery is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Here are some common maintenance practices for EV batteries:
So what can we do to maintain the best of battery health..?
These are some first measures you can start upon:
- Avoid charging your EV battery over 80 percent. Charging beyond this point puts stress on the battery pack, especially as you approach a 100 percent charge. Most EVs allow you to set a charging maximum to help preserve battery life [1].
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- Never let your battery discharge all the way down to zero percent. This is equally distressing to the battery and its components. Most EVs have a "limp home mode" that allows low-speed driving to get you back to your home charger [1].
- Use DC Fast Chargers sparingly. While it's okay to use a DC Fast Charger for a quick recharge on a trip, automakers suggest not using Level 3 charging on a daily basis. It's better to charge your EV overnight using Level 1 or Level 2 charging [1].
- Avoid charging in extreme temperatures. Charging an EV in frigid weather can shorten the battery's lifespan and potentially damage it, especially if the car has been parked outside. It's advisable to drive around to warm up first instead of charging from a completely cold state [5].
- Understand battery degradation. Over the life of your EV, the battery may degrade to a small degree but not enough to be replaced. It's normal to experience a five percent loss of range per 100,000 miles of travel [1].
- Keep your vehicle at a moderate temperature. This helps get the most out of your battery. Also, moderate acceleration is beneficial; aggressive driving can add stress to the components and reduce the battery's life [1].
- Check battery life and warranties. Checking batteries periodically helps in the longer run. The advanced batteries used in EVs have a limited number of charging cycles. Manufacturers typically offer 8-year/100,000-mile warranties for their EV batteries. Consider the manufacturer's battery recycling policy as well.
- Regular maintenance. Some automotive battery systems use liquid coolant to maintain safe operating temperatures, which may require regular checks. Consult your dealer or refer to your owner's manual for more information [4].
Key takeaways:
The health of an EV battery is a critical factor that influences the vehicle's performance, efficiency, and lifespan. By understanding the factors that impact battery health and implementing proper maintenance practices, EV owners can ensure their vehicle remains efficient and reliable for years to come. As battery technology continues to evolve, the importance of managing battery health will only become more pronounced, underscoring the need for ongoing research and innovation in this area.
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