Lithium Iron Phosphate (LifePO4)

What are some differences between Lithium and AGM batteries?

Different Lithium Technologies

Firstly, it is important to note that there are many types of “Lithium Ion” batteries. The point to note in this definition refers to a “family of batteries”.
There are several different “Lithium Ion” batteries within this family which utilize different materials for their cathode and anode. As a result, they exhibit very different characteristics and therefore are suitable for different applications.

Why LiFePO4?

Of all the lithium options available, there are several reasons why LiFePO4 has been selected as the ideal lithium technology for replacement of SLA. The main reasons come down to its favourable characteristics when looking at the main applications where SLA currently exist. These include:

·        Similar voltage to SLA (3.2V per cell x 4 = 12.8V) making them ideal for SLA replacement.

·        Safest form of the lithium technologies.

·        Environmentally friendly –phosphate is not hazardous and so is friendly both to the environment and not a health risk.

·        Wide temperature range.

Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4)

Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) is a well-known lithium technology due to its wide use and suitability to a wide range of applications.
Characteristics of low price, high safety and good specific energy, make this a strong option for many applications.
LiFePO4 cell voltage of 3.2V/cell also makes it the lithium technology of choice for sealed lead acid replacement in a number of key applications.

Feature – Weight:

·        AGM Deep cycle – 26 to 28Kg

·        LiFePO4 – 8 to 12Kg

Feature – Greater Cycle Life:

·        Up to 6 time the cycle life compared to AGM

Feature – Flat Discharge Curve:

·       

·        AGM – drops below 12V after 1.5 hrs of runtime

·        LiFePO4 – drops below 12V after approximately 4 hrs of runtime

Feature – Increased Use Of Capacity:

·        AGM Deep cycle – 100AH x 50% = 50Ah usable

·        LiFePO4 – 100Ah x 80% = 80Ah

·        Difference = 30Ah or 60% more capacity usage

Feature – Greater Charge Efficiency:

·        AGM – Full charge takes approx. 8 hours

·        LiFePO4 – Full charge can be as low as 2 hours

Feature – Low Self Discharge Rate:

·        AGM – Discharge to 80% SOC after 4 months

·        LiFePO4 – Discharge to 80% after 8 months

The battery has an emergency jump-start feature built into it, so if you accidentally leave your lights on or the battery fully discharges for some other reason, the battery puts itself to sleep and maintains a reserve capacity that can provide four or five more engine starts so you can get the car running again.

With internal management system that makes these batteries safe and durable, it protects the lithium from getting into situations where thermal runaway could be an issue due to overcharging or other problems. And the type of lithium chemistry we're using is iron phosphate, or LiFePO4. In general, this is considered to be the safest lithium technology available today.

Which car's original Starter Battery is using Lithium Battery? :

• Mercedes Benz S63
• Porsche Cayenne 
• Lamborghini Urus