In the solar energy sector, stainless steel is a widely used material. The material SUS304 is steel is renowned for its strength, durability, and corrosion resistance. Among its variants, SUS304 stands out as a particularly popular choice across various industries, including solar energy. But what sets SUS304 apart, and why is it so favored?
Understanding SUS304
SUS304 is the Japanese designation for 304 stainless steel, an alloy primarily made up of iron, with 18% chromium (Cr) and 8% nickel (Ni). This composition ensures excellent corrosion resistance and workability, making it the most widely used stainless steel alloy globally.
Key Benefits of SUS304
Corrosion Resistance: SUS304’s high chromium content creates a protective layer on the surface, shielding the metal underneath from rust and other forms of corrosion. This makes the type of material ideal for solar installation material.
Durability: Known for its longevity even under harsh conditions, SUS304 is a cost-effective choice for projects where long-term durability is essential.
Versatility: Its excellent workability allows SUS304 to be shaped, welded, and finished to meet specific requirements.
SUS304 specific in Solar Energy
SUS304 is mainly used in roof hooks to provide a durable and good basis for solar profiles. The material is crucial for constructing mounting systems and panel frames, offering reliability and durability for outdoor installations exposed to the elements. This ensures long-lasting solar solutions.
Conclusion
SUS304 uniquely blends corrosion resistance, durability, and versatility, making it an excellent choice for diverse applications, including solar energy. Opting for SUS304 components means investing in solar mounting systems that withstand time, contributing to a more sustainable and reliable future.
Solar power is growing faster than all other electricity sources in the U.S., representing 50% of the generation capacity installed in 2022. According to the latest Solar Market Insight Report, the U.S. installed 700,000 home solar systems last year, and the country now has enough solar capacity to meet the energy needs of 25 million homes. High-quality solar panels come with a 25-30 year product warranty, and homeowners paying high electric tariffs can achieve a payback period of less than six years.
One of the most important decisions when going solar is deciding where to install the photovoltaic (PV) array and inverter. Many homeowners choose roof-mounted systems, since they can take advantage of unused space. However, a solar carport is also a viable option: you get both a clean energy system and shaded parking areas in the same piece of land.
In simple terms, a solar carport is a canopy with photovoltaic panels that is installed above a parking area. Solar carports accomplish a dual function, providing a roof for your vehicles while generating electricity for your home. If you own an electric vehicle, a solar carport can also be combined with an EV charging station.
Solar carports work just like ground-mounted PV systems, since the racking structure is anchored directly to the ground in both cases. However, solar carports use a taller structure than ground mounting systems, since they must provide enough space to park vehicles.
Solar Carport vs. Traditional Solar Installation
Traditional solar installations take advantage of existing roof areas, and their racking system is attached directly to your roof structure. On the other hand, a solar carport is an independent structure anchored directly to the ground, which generates electricity while acting as a roof for your vehicles. Each type of system has advantages and disadvantages.
Benefits of a Solar Carport
A solar carport is slightly more expensive than a rooftop PV system of the same capacity, since you need a dedicated structure. However, solar carports also offer several benefits.
You can convert unproductive parking space into a renewable energy system.
Your vehicle is covered from rainfall, snow and UV rays.
Solar panels and inverters can be accessed more easily for cleaning, inspections and maintenance.
A solar carport can be designed with an orientation that maximizes the sunlight reaching your PV modules, increasing their electricity output.
The gel battery was invented in 1957. Gel batteries are one of two sealed lead acid batteries, the other being an AGM battery. Sealed lead acid batteries are distinct from other lead acid batteries in that they are maintenance-free.
Gel batteries are a maintenance-free alternative to flooded cell deep cycle batteries. They contain a silica-based gel in which battery electrolytes are suspended, allowing electrons to flow freely between plates. The nice thing about spill-proof gel batteries is that they don't leak even if the battery case is broken. These batteries also fight against corrosion and prevent overcharging.
The combination of Gel electrolyte along with highly porous glass micro fiber separator ensure reducing short circuit, higher capacity, longer service life,leak proof operation in any position. Brava advanced GEL Lead acid batteries approved with UL1989, CE, IEC60896, IEC61427, IEC60254, IEC60079 certificates provide maintenance-free and deep cycle performance for UPS, solar/wind, telecommunications, cathodic protection, navigation aids, remote monitoring, RV/marine, golf cart, switchgear, cellular radio etc.
gel battery applications
What's a gel battery?
A gel battery is a dry battery since it doesn't use a liquid electrolyte. In a gel battery, the electrolyte is frozen with silica gel. This keeps the electrolyte inside the battery, preventing it from evaporating or spilling.
This design stabilizes the battery and gives it a low self-discharge. This is a handy feature for batteries that lie idle for long periods.
10 Advantages of a gel battery
Maintenance-free. Because the batteries are comprised of gel instead of liquid, there is little to no maintenance to keep the battery working properly.
6-year lifespan.
Better performance until its end of life then performance drops off sharply.
You can install it sideways since it's spill-proof.Gel batteries have the advantage of being able to be used in virtually any position, because they don’t leak and are generally maintenance free. This greatly increases the number of applications gel batteries can be used for.
Better heat tolerance.
No Leaks: Even though wet cell batteries are sealed in a plastic encasement there is still the chance that it will leak. Gel batteries are also sealed but with a valve that removes excess pressure. This means that between the gel substance and the removal of pressure, there is nowhere for the mixture to go.
Minimal Risk: When damage occurs to a traditional lead-acid battery you are faced with a massive and dangerous clean up (not to mention the impact on anything the battery acid may come into contact with during the process). Gel batteries will not leak out if the casing becomes damaged, so there is a reduced risk of harm coming to the equipment and clean up hazards.
Vibration Resistant: One of the biggest complaints with wet cell batteries is that they are very susceptible to extreme vibration and other impacts. Gel batteries absorb the impact and vibrations, making them great batteries for items such as four wheelers.
No Fumes: Because these batteries are comprised of a gel substance there are minimal fumes created as a result of use. This means that there is a reduced need for ventilation which increases the potential applications gel batteries can be used for, as well as making them easier to charge anywhere.
Resistant To Discharge Death: When using a wet cell battery it’s important that you don’t allow the battery to discharge too much. Otherwise, it will never recharge. Gel cell batteries aren’t that way. They are deep cycle batteries which means that they can discharge more and still be recharged like new.
Disadvantages of a gel battery
You need to store it in a charged condition although this is less critical than as for a flooded lead acid battery.
It requires some ventilation as it releases gas when pressure builds up.
Sensitive to overcharging though this is less so than AGM batteries.
AGM is cheaper and can handle higher loads.
How Does a gel battery Work?
A gel battery (often referred to as a gel cell battery) is a lead-acid battery that is valve regulated. When the electrolyte is mixed with sulphuric acid and silica, it becomes a relatively stationary gel substance.
This gel mixture allows the battery to utilize the acid and electrolyte in the same way it would with a traditional lead-acid battery, just without the added maintenance.
When should you choose a gel battery?
Gel batteries are an alternative to flooded lead acid. They're suited for a battery backup system or an off-grid home. If you don't mind the extra expense, a gel battery is a better option if you're looking into lead acid batteries. This is because you won't have to worry about maintenance.
Are gel batteries better than AGM batteries?
Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries are the other sealed lead acid battery. How do gel batteries compare to AGM batteries?
For starters, gel batteries can be more expensive. They also need specific chargers to prevent overcharging. Not using these chargers reduces the batteries lifespan.
They're also don't work as well with appliances that need a higher current because they have a higher internal resistance.
On the other hand, gel batteries have a longer lifespan. This is because:
They hold more acid because of their design.
They have a better temperature tolerance. They have improved heat transfer to the outside. The gel moves heat, whereas the absorbent glass mat of the AGM acts as an insulator.
They also maintain their performance over a longer period. AGM batteries gradually fade as they get older.
Feature
Gel batteries
AGM batteries
Cost
Expensive compared to AGM batteries
Less expensive compared to gel batteries
Charge
The battery can be ruined even if it is brand new if you make one charging mistake, like overcharging or using a tapering charger
Hold their charge well and charge quickly
Technology
Gel paste suspends the electrolyte in the battery case of a gel battery
Internally, the electrolyte is wicked into a glass matt to prevent leakage
Life expectancy
You can fully discharge gel batteries up to 90% and still get a much longer cycle life than you would with AGM batteries
Discharging your AGM battery more than 50% and up to 70% is okay, but doing so frequently will significantly shorten the battery’s cycle life
Are gel batteries better than flooded batteries?
A flooded lead acid battery is a wet battery since it uses a liquid electrolyte. Unlike a gel battery, a flooded lead acid battery needs maintenance by topping up the water in the battery every 1-3 months.
Gel batteries are the safer lead acid batteries because they release less hydrogen gas from their vent valves. This makes them safer to install where there is limited ventilation. Hydrogen release or gassing is a minor safety concern with flooded lead acid batteries.
Because of how they're made, they can be oriented in any way. They can be stacked pancake-style which may improve cycle life. Flooded lead acid batteries are kept upright to avoid acid spills.
What Is A Deep Cycle Gel Battery?
A deep cycle battery is a type of battery that can use to provide power for extended periods.
It stores more energy than conventional batteries, and it’s able to withstand the repeated charging and discharging cycles necessary in solar installations or other renewable energy systems.
Deep cycle gel batteries are among the most popular types of deep-cycle batteries on the market today because they’re designed with safety in mind while still providing high performance.
What Is The Difference Between A Deep Cycle Battery And A Gel Battery?
It is not uncommon for people to confuse deep cycle batteries and gel batteries. They are very different in many ways, but the most important distinction is that a deep cycle battery can be used regularly while a gel battery cannot.
So this is the big difference that I have shared with you between the deep cycle and gel batteries. Furthermore, the difference is;
Deep cycle batteries are made of lead-acid cells, which produce an electric current when they react with sulfuric acid and water.
A deep cycle battery is typically used in a boat or RV. It can be discharged more without damaging it than many other batteries, but it’s typically heavier and less expensive.
While A gel battery has additives that help prevent the electrolyte from leaking out of the cell when it’s overcharged.
This makes them safer to use in certain situations, like on motorcycles or scooters, often exposed to extreme temperatures.
Gel batteries also cost more than most types of lead-acid batteries, which means you’ll usually only see them in higher-end products.
Knowing this information will help you find the best type of battery for your needs!
How Long Do Deep-Cycle Gel Batteries Last?
When peoples buy an expensive battery, they want the time of lasting the batteries should extend. However, you can use deep cycle batteries for over 6 years or more if you charge properly and care about it.
It is totally up to you how you are keeping this battery to taking care of and whats your charging routine is to charge your battery.
Because, as you know, if you charge the battery over time, the battery may damage.
How Do You Revive A Dead Gel Battery?
Because gel batteries are sealed, unlike fluid-based batteries, the cells cannot access them.
The best technique to repair and recover a gel battery is fully discharged it and then slowly charge it again.
Are Gel Batteries Worth It?
Gel batteries are worthwhile since their performance is maintained throughout their lifespan. Its build custom, according to Battery University, produces a dome-shaped curve in its power output. There is no declining voltage, which is a common problem with other batteries.
Get a Gel Battery For All Your Needs
Gel batteries offer the ability to save energy for the benefit of future generations. As the supply of electricity decreases, batteries become more important to human life as the population grows.
We recommend using a gel battery because:
There will be no need to do routine maintenance.
There will be no spills, providing no considerable and hazardous risk because you will not come into contact with the acid.
Because of the low amount of corrosion, gel batteries can be used with sensitive electronic equipment.
Gel batteries are extremely durable and vibration resistant.
Because there is a reduced possibility of sulfuric acid burns, it is very safe.
The battery will last far longer than a lead-acid battery for the same amount of use because of its high lifespan.
So, what is the deal with all black-solar panels? Most solar panel manufacturing companies now have an all-black model, which is becoming more and more popular with customers. However, many people get confused about the difference between the two, and don’t know which type of panel is better for their home.
MONOCRYSTALLINE VS. POLYCRYSTALLINE
Before discussing all-black panels, we first must differentiate between monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels. In summary, polycrystalline panels are less efficient because some crystal formation occurs when they are being made. These crystals make it harder for electrons to flow through the cells. On the other hand, a lack of crystal formation in monocrystalline panels allows fir easy electron flow, making these panels more efficient. Because they are more efficient, they are also more expensive. Additionally, monocrystalline panels are darker in color, while polycrystalline panels have the traditional blue color.
Here is the visual difference between the two: monocrystalline is on the left and polycrystalline is on the right.
BLACK SHEETS AND FRAMES
There is a difference between a traditional dark-colored monocrystalline panel and these all-black models that we are talking about. Regular monocrystalline panels still have a white sheet and frame, while all-black panels have black sheets and frame. Below you can see the difference. The picture on the left shows traditional monocrystalline panels up close. The photo on the right shows a whole array panels with black sheets.
EFFICIENCY COMPARISON
Although the black sheets and frame gives these black panels a sleeker look, this does slightly decrease efficiency. All-black panels not only heat up more quickly, but also allow for less light trapping. Both factors decrease efficiency. On panels with white sheets, unused light is reflected then trapped to be used by the solar cell. This increases the cell’s current and makes cells with white sheet slightly more efficient. However, overall, all black panels are only 0.5% less efficient, so it is not a huge difference.
THE ROLE OF AESTHETICS
So, as it turns out, the major difference between all black panels and traditional, white-framed ones is simply the aesthetic. Many customers are concerned about how the solar array will look on their house, and for that reason they decide on the all-black panels. So, if you want a sleeker aesthetic from your array, the choice seems to be all-black array, as long as you are okay with sacrificing a little efficiency. However, if you want the most efficient and best deal for your investment, then traditional, white-framed panels are the way to go. All our most popular manufacturers sell both all-black and traditional models!
What is HJT technology? Heterojunction technology (HJT) is a N-type bifacial solar cell technology, by leveraging N-type monocrystalline silicon as a substratum and depositing silicon-based thin films with different characteristics and transparent conductive films on the front and rear surfaces respectively.
Combining with the benefits of crystalline silicon and amorphous silicon thin-fim technologies, HJT technology has excellent photoabsorption and passivation effects, as well as outstanding efficiency and performance. HJT panels are one of the technologies to improve the conversion rate and power output to the highest level, also represent the trend of the new generation of solar cell platform technology.
Why choose solar panels with HJT technology?
1. High conversion efficiency:
The homojunction cell type used in PERC technology uses crystalline silicon for the PN junction. Compared to conventional crystalline silicon solar cells using PERC technology, HJT solar panels are unique. HJT is a junction composed of two unique semiconductor substances.
It functions similarly to conventional solar cells, but the HJT cell is more effective at converting sunlight into electricity thanks to a thin layer of amorphous silicon.Currently, the average PERC efficiency of many PV manufacturers is over 22%, and the average HJT efficiency is over 22.5%.
In addition, HJT solar cells are made to have a module bifaciality of over 93%, which means they can produce electricity from both sides of the module. For instance, the Swiss company Ecosolifer has created a commercial bifacial HJT solar cell with a 24.1% efficiency.
2.Low temperature coefficient:
Compared to conventional crystalline silicon cells, thin-film solar energy produced by HJT solar panels has a lower temperature coefficient. At temperatures below 200 °C, HJT solar panels have an efficiency of over 23%.
Additionally, they have a low temperature coefficient of -0.2%/K, which boosts the efficiency and output of photovoltaic systems while lowering their cost.
This indicates that HJT solar panels can function effectively even in warm environments, enabling them to generate more energy in hotter environments. As a result, large-scale power generation using these high-performance cells is made possible.
3. Fewer production steps:
HJT solar panels are produced with fewer process stages than conventional solar panels made with PERC technology, which facilitates a smoother production process. HJT solar panels require only 8 processes for the production of solar photovoltaic modules as opposed to the roughly 13 processes needed by PERC technology. As a result, it is becoming more financially feasible, which is encouraging for the development of solar energy. This is because the price of the required equipment is continuing to drop.
4. Long service life:
HJT solar panels are renowned for their toughness, which means they last longer and require less upkeep, which lowers costs. The typical lifespan of solar panels is 25 years. However, under normal circumstances, HJT solar panels can last up to 30 years.
This is due to the protective barrier function of the amorphous silicon layer, which slows degradation and prevents the emergence of the PID effect. HJT batteries have a longer life as a result.
What is the HJT technology’s development trend?
The market’s most well-liked and desirable solar cell technology is PERC technology. It is regarded as the least complicated option because upgrading the production line only necessitates the addition of new machinery. The production of HJT solar panels, however, necessitates the acquisition of an entirely different set of production tools.
When it comes to solar cell development, HJT solar panels are far more effective and sophisticated than solar panels using PERC technology. Because of the high power generation efficiency of HJT solar panels, cell manufacturers and suppliers are becoming more and more interested in them. The future market will determine customer preferences, which will be a major factor in the development of HJT solar panels.
The solar industry is undergoing a revolution thanks to HJT (Heterojunction) technology, which increases energy output while also improving efficiency. To get around the drawbacks of conventional solar panels, HJT solar panels combine amorphous and crystalline silicon layers. This makes a variety of solar energy applications possible.
How many kWh of electricity a 25KW solar power system can produce in a day depends on many factors, including light intensity, temperature, season, and shade. The following will introduce in detail the calculation formula of the standard daily power generation of a 25KW solar power system and the impact under different circumstances. In different regions and different seasons, the sunlight duration and the conversion efficiency of solar panels will change, so the daily power generation will also vary.
1. The influence of light intensity on power generation
Light intensity is one of the key factors affecting the power generation of solar power system. Light intensity refers to the light intensity per unit area, usually in watts per square meter (W/m²).
Daily power generation (kWh) = 25kW x light intensity (W/m²) x power generation efficiency x running time (hours)
If the light intensity of a 25KW solar power system is 1000W/m², the operating time is 8 hours, and the power generation efficiency is 15%.
Temperature is also one of the factors that affect the power generation of solar system. When the temperature rises, the power generation efficiency of solar cells will decrease, thereby affecting the power generation of solar system. Generally speaking, when the temperature increases by 1°C, the power generation of solar system will decrease by 0.4-0.5%.
Daily power generation (kWh) = 25kW x light intensity (W/m²) x power generation efficiency x running time (hours) x (1-0.004 x (temperature-25))
If the light intensity of a 25KW solar power system is 1000W/m², the operating time is 8 hours, the power generation efficiency is 15%, and the temperature is 25°C.
It can be seen that temperature has a significant impact on the power generation of solar power system.
3. Seasonal influence on power generation
Seasons also have an impact on the power generation of solar power system. Generally speaking, the higher of light intensity in summer, the power generation will increase accordingly. While the lower light intensity in winter, the power generation will decrease accordingly.
Daily power generation (kWh) = 25kW x light intensity (W/m²) x power generation efficiency x running time (hours) x seasonal coefficient
The seasonal coefficient is generally between 0.8-1.2. For example, when the light intensity is 800W/m², the operating time is 8 hours, and the power generation efficiency is 15%, the seasonal coefficient is 1.2 in summer and 0.8 in winter.
Daily power generation in summer (kWh) = 25kW × 800W/m² × 15% × 8h × 1.2 = 23.04kWh
Daily power generation in winter (kWh) = 25kW × 800W/m² × 15% × 8h × 0.8 = 15.36kWh
It can be seen that seasonal factors also have a greater impact on the power generation.
4. The impact of shadow occlusion on power generation
If the photovoltaic power plant is blocked by shadows, its power generation will decrease accordingly. Shading will affect the power generation efficiency of some solar cells, thereby affecting the overall power generation.
Daily power generation (kWh) = 25kW x light intensity (W/m²) x power generation efficiency x running time (hours) x shading factor
Assume that the shading coefficient of the solar system is 0.9, the light intensity is 1000W/m², the running time is 8 hours, and the power generation efficiency is 15%.
It can be seen that even if only a part of the photovoltaic cell is shaded, its power generation will be affected.
According to the above, the standard daily power generation of a 25KW solar power system can reach 30-35kWh under ideal conditions. However, the actual situation is affected by many factors, so the power generation may be reduced. For example, if it is cloudy or the temperature is too high, the power generation may be reduced accordingly. Therefore, in order to improve the power generation efficiency of solar power system, it is necessary to avoid shading as much as possible, and to plan well in terms of site selection and components.
Select your solar power system from here: https://www.higonsolar.com/solar-solution
The average solar buyer probably is not paying attention to whether solar panels are made with p-type or n-type solar cells. But since you know there has N-type and N-type solar panel, you may start wondering what exactly difference between them and how they may affect solar panel buying in the future. A conventional crystalline silicon (c-Si) solar cell is a silicon wafer doped with various chemicals to encourage power production. The main difference between p-type and n-type solar cells is the number of electrons. A p-type cell usually dopes its silicon wafer with boron, which has one less electron than silicon (making the cell positively charged). An n-type cell is doped with phosphorus, which has one more electron than silicon (making the cell negatively charged).
Compared with P-type polycrystalline silicon wafers, the technical performance advantages of N-type monocrystalline silicon wafers are very firm：
N-type cells/modules unaffected by boron-oxygen-related photodegradation；
N-type substrates are more tolerant of common metallic impurities such as iron；
N-type silicon wafer-based cells allow for bifacial cell designs that can absorb backside illumination to produce higher power；
It is also worth noting that N-type monocrystalline silicon wafers provide the substrate for a truly high-efficiency cell structure.
What is the future of N-type and P-type?
Looking ahead, it is more difficult to improve the efficiency of PERC cells,and the N-type technology with higher efficiency, lower attenuation rate and better low-light performance is recognized as the next generation photovoltaic cell technology. As far as the specific technical route is concerned, the three cell technologies of TOPCon (tunneling oxide passivation contact), HJT (intrinsic thin film heterojunction) and IBC (interdigital back contact) are widely sought after. Among them, TOPCon and HJT technology are the focus of industrial investment and market attention.
Considering the cost, TOPCon is one step ahead. It is reported that the theoretical maximum efficiency of TOPCon can reach 27.1% (single-sided) / 28.7% (double-sided). The advantage of TOPCon is that the production line is compatible with the existing PERC production line, which has also become the preferred iteration technology for large PERC capacity producers. With mass production, TOPCon companies claim that the cost of battery modules is expected to be equal to that of PERC within a year, and the cost of BOS will be significantly reduced.
According to the forecast of CPIA, in 2030, the market share of N-type batteries may reach about 56%, and the prospects are very broad.
Five fast facts to bring you across all things N-type.
FACT #1: N-type solar cells were developed before P-type
The first solar cell was developed in 1954 – and it was in fact an N-type cell. So why did P-types become so popular?
When solar PV technology was starting out, most of it was being used by space agencies. In space, P-type cells proved to be more resistant to radiation damage than N-types. Hence, more focus and resources were put on P-type cell development, leading to their dominance in today's market.
FACT #2: N-type cells are more efficient than P-type
One of the main differences in the engineering of N-type panels vs P-type panels is their 'doping’. Doping refers to the addition of chemicals to the crystalline silicon to promote power production.
An N-type solar cell is doped with phosphorus, which has one more electron than silicon, making the cell negatively charged (hence the 'N' in N-type).
A P-type cell is doped with boron, which has one less electron than silicon, making the cell positively charged (the 'P' in P-type).
When boron is exposed to light and oxygen, it causes Light Induced Degradation (LID). This happens as soon as solar panels are installed and decreases anywhere between 1% and 3% depending on the brand of the panel.
N-type panels don't use boron and therefore aren't affected by LID. It means better efficiency and improves the useful life of the panel.
FACT #3: N-type cells are more expensive than P-type – however this is expected to change
The downside to N-type panels in today's market is cost. They are more expensive to make and therefore more expensive to buy. With more focus and resources on P-type development, they quickly became more cost effective to produce for manufacturers and cheaper to purchase for end users. Investment into N-types was left behind.
FACT #4: N-type are projected to take over P-type in market share by 2024/25
Industry estimates suggest that N-type panels will be the solar industry's dominant technology by 2024/25 as engineering and manufacturing processes evolve and costs come down.
For a simple explanation of the manufacturing differences between the N-type and the P-type, check out our infographic:
Solar panels are widely used to generate electricity, but their performance can be affected by contamination such as dirt, bird droppings, and pollen.
Here are 3 tips to clean solar panels:
1. Prioritize safety by shutting down the system before cleaning and using safety ropes for roof-mounted panels.
2. Use gentle cleaning methods to avoid scratching the surface. Clean water, detergent, and a soft brush are ideal tools for the job.
3. Opt for early morning or evening cleaning when the panels are cooler. Cleaning while the sun is shining can lead to quick water evaporation and residue buildup.
#HigonSolar, we are committed to providing customers with reliable and durable products. Regular solar panel cleaning can ensure long-term benefits for your solar system's performance
The battery C rating can be defined as the measure at which a battery is discharged relative to the maximum capacity of the batteries.
A battery’s charge and discharge rates are controlled by battery C rating. In other terms, it is the governing measure of at what current the intended batteries is charged or discharged and how quickly that occurs.
The capacity of a battery is generally rated and labeled at 3C rate(3C current), this means a fully charged battery with a capacity of 100Ah should be able to provide 3*100Amps current for one third hours, That same 100Ah battery being discharged at a C-rate of 1C will provide 100Amps for one hours, and if discharged at 0.5C rate it provide 50Amps for 2 hours.
The C rate is very important to know as with the majority of batteries the available stored energy depends on the speed of the charge and discharge currents.
Why The C Rating Are Different Between Different Battery?
1C means 1 hour discharge time.
2C means 1/2 hour discharge time.
0.5C means 2 hour discharge time.
In many applications, the battery rate is very important. For example, we want the car to be fully charged within half an hour, instead of waiting for 2 hours, or even 8 hours. What is cause influence to the battery C rating?
There are two limitations to how fast a battery can be charged-thermal heating and mass transfer limitations.
Thermal heating occurs because the internal resistance of the battery generates excessive heat, which must be dissipated to the environment.
When charging occurs at very high currents, the heat generated within the battery cannot be removed fast enough, and the temperature quickly rises.
Mass transfer of Li+ ions during fast charge results in diffusion limiting current even if the electrodes are made of nanoparticles with high surface area. While the high surface area allows sufficient rate of lithiation or de-lithiantion, the Li+ diffusion through the cross-sectional area of the electrolyte within the separator is limited. It is quite possible to fast- charge for a limited time restricted to the Li-ions already presented in the electrolyte withing the electrode. This unssteady state diffusion can last until the Li+ ions are depleted and their supply is limited by the cross-sectional area of the battery.
This mass transfer limitation occurs because the transference number of Li+ is smaller than 1. While Li+ions carry a fraction of the current in the electrolyte, they carry 100% of the current at the electrode; thus depletion of Li+ occurs near the anode, resulting in diffusion limiting current. Any attempt to surpass the limiting current results in solvent decomposition, heating and deterioration of the battery.
So different material battery will have different rate, the typical NCM lithium battery C rating is 1C, and maxium C rate can reach 10C about 18650 battery. the typical LiFePO4 lithium battery C rating is 1C, and the maxium C rate can reach 3C about LiFePO4 prismatic battery.
Battery C Rating Chart
Below chart shows the different battery C rating and their discharge time.When we caculate them, the battery C rating should use same caculation as the same energy.
Battery C Rating Chart
For most of lithium battery, here is the picture to show the discharge curve in different C rate.
Battery Discharge Curve In Different Battery C Rating
For most lead-acid batteries, we should know that even for the same battery, the battery capacity at different battery C rating is different. To get a reasonably good capacity reading, lead acid batteries manufacturers typically rate lead-acid batteries at 20 hours(A very low 0.05C). The following is the discharge capacity of a Trojan 12V135Ah battery at different rates.
Lead Acid Battery Capacity In Different Battery C Rating
How To Calculate The C Rating For The Battery?
A battery’s C rating is defined by the time of charge and discharge.
C-rate is an important information or data for any battery, if a rechargeable battery can be discharged at that C rating, a 100Ah battery will provide about 100A, then the battery has a discharge rate of 1C. If the battery can only provide a maximum discharge current of about 50A, then the discharge rate of the battery is 50A/100Ah=0.5C.
C-rate (C) = charge or discharge current in amperes (A) / rated capacity of the battery(Ah)
Therefore, calculating the C rating is important for any battery user and can be used to derive output current, power and energy by:
1C means 100Ah*1C=100A discharge current available.
1C means 100Ah/100A=1 hours discharge time Capable.
It means the battery can be use for 60minute (1h) with load current of 100A.
2C means 100Ah*2C=200A discharge current available.
2C means 200Ah/100A=0.5 hours discharge time Capable.
It means the battery can be use for 30minute (0.5h) with load current of 200A.
0.5C means 100Ah*0.5C=50A discharge current available.
0.5C means 100Ah/50A=2 hours discharge time Capable.
It means the battery can be use for 120minute (2h) with load current of 50A.
Sometimes analyzer capacity readings are given as a percentage of the nominal rating. For example, if a 1000mAh battery can supply this current for about 60 minutes, read 100%. However, if the battery lasts only half an hour before the cut-off point, the displayed value is 50%. Sometimes a brand new battery can provide more than 100% capacity. The battery can be discharged using an analyzer which allows you to set your favorite C rate. If the battery is discharged at a lower discharge rate it will show a higher reading and vice versa. However, you should be aware of differences in battery analyzer capacity readings for different C rates, which are related to the internal resistance of the battery.
What Are The Effects Of C Rating On Lithium-ion Batteries?
After we caculated above, we know more higher the C rating on a battery, the faster the energy can escape the batteries to power the application. The C rating on any battery depends on its application. Because some electronics require large amounts of power supply thus need batteries with high C ratings, For example, the motorcycle starter, you only needs needs a few seconds to power the motors quickly. But for some application, the discharge time only need need low C rating, Such as the soalr light, you want them to power for whole night or several nights.
What Is The C Rating Of My Battery?
You'll usually find the battery's C-rate on the battery's label and on the battery's data sheet. Different battery chemistries sometimes show different battery C rates.
Generally speaking, Lithium iron phosphate batteries typically have a discharge rate of 1C
NCM batteries typically have a discharge rate of 3C
Lead-acid batteries are generally rated for a very low discharge rate, typically 0.05C, or 20 hour rate.
If you cannot find the battery C rating on the label or datasheet, we recommend contacting the battery manufacturer directly.
In Conclusion
The C-rate is a unit used to identify a current value/discharge time of a lithium-ion battery under different conditions. Since you have had a clear view of what the C rating is , and what it stands for in a battery, you will need to include it in your next selection for batteries to get the best out of what you settle for.
