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What are lithium batteries? Any battery user has probably wondered what these power packs are at one point. They're quite a well-known name in the market and with lots of different types, it can get confusing which one to choose for specific applications.
These batteries are also popular for having an edge over other power packs and being versatile in terms of uses. Because of this, lithium battery prices are typically more expensive, which is the number one reason why people hesitate to buy them. Many opt for traditional lead-acid batteries instead especially in the outdoor scene, despite the many advantages they can get from using lithium as their portable battery pack for camping.
However, you can get lithium local battery packs within the affordable price range from some battery providers and camping stores. Here at Outbax, for instance, we have a wide variety of LiFePO4 batteries ideal for outdoor adventures such as camping, caravanning, and boating.
What Are Lithium Batteries?
Lithium batteries store energy through lithium-ions. This type of battery creates an electrical potential difference between the negative and positive poles, while an insulating layer called a "separator" between them blocks the electrons, allowing lithium ions to pass through.
When we say electrical potential, this pertains to the charging and discharging process that happens inside the battery. Charging your lithium power pack causes the ions to move from the positive side of the battery through the negative side. The same thing happens when you discharge the battery but in a reverse direction.
This potential is also referred to as "voltage." When you use your battery to power electronics, the electrons inside it which are initially blocked by the separator are forced to pass through that device and power it.
What Are Lithium Batteries Made Of And What Are Its Types?
The earlier types of lithium batteries were comprised of metal lithium at the negative terminal, but this eventually shifted to a composition more focused on the lithium ion batteries we know today. These ones use carbon graphite anodes instead, while the cathode or positive terminal consists of various metal oxides that vary depending on the battery's voltage.
There are six main types of lithium batteries. Let's have a look at each one of them particularly the lithium iron phosphate batteries, as these are the ones currently gaining traction among outdoor enthusiasts.
Lithium Cobalt Oxide
LCO batteries are mostly used for their ability to provide longer runtime. They have high specific energy but low specific power, so they're not really suitable for high-load applications.
Lithium Manganese Oxide
These batteries stand out mainly for their three-dimensional chemistry that improves ion flow and lowers internal resistance. This results in better stability and safety, making them a good option for power tools and medical instruments.
Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide
This lithium battery type boasts exceptional stability and high specific energy due to the combined elements used in the cathode. NMC batteries are ideal to use in power tools as well as electronic vehicles like e-bikes.
Lithium Nickel Cobalt Aluminium Oxide
High in energy with a decent battery life, NCA batteries are popular in the electric vehicle market. However, they tend to be expensive despite not being as safe as other lithium battery systems.
Lithium Titanate
Unlike NCA, LTO batteries are extremely safe with an impressive lifespan. This is why they are widely used in different applications for telecommunication systems and even military equipment
Lithium Iron Phosphate Batteries
As mentioned earlier these batteries have carved a good reputation in the battery industry. Dubbed the safest batteries in the market, these power packs are often referred to as LiFePO4 batteries or sometimes, LFP batteries. Usually, they come in the form of 12V lithium battery packs and unlike conventional li-ion batteries, they were designed to be incombustible.
What Are Lithium Batteries Used For?
Another pro of lithium batteries is their versatility. You'd see these power packs in electronic devices like mobile phones and tablets, in medical equipment, power tools, e-vehicles, and outdoor adventures.
Let's focus on the outdoors and LiFePO4 batteries as this is where lithium battery technology shines the most. Campers and RV owners tend to opt for a 100Ah lithium battery in terms of capacity. At the same time, those who are planning to stay in remote locations sometimes go for a 200Ah lithium battery or even bigger sizes. LiFePO4 packs make great off-grid batteries since they're deep cycle batteries too.
This means an increased useable capacity from the usual 50% to 80%, which equates to a longer runtime without needing a recharge. If you're wondering what is the best deep cycle battery, lithium deep cycle batteries are always the answer. They are also equipped with a built-in battery management system (BMS) that ensures optimal cell performance.
Another function of this integrated BMS is providing automatic protection against common battery issues. Thanks to it, you no longer have to worry about overcharging, overheating, and short circuits. This helps extend the service life of your LiFePO4 as well, which usually lasts for 7 to 10 years with proper maintenance.
Pairing solar panels and batteries is also a good way of generating camping power especially if you're using RVs. Since you'll be getting renewable energy, it allows you to explore even remote camping spots instead of being limited to areas with access to a mains power.
More From Outbax
When it comes to camping power, you can never go wrong with Outbax. We have a lithium battery for your every outdoor trip here—a lithium marine battery, lithium battery for caravan, and even a slimline lithium battery! You don't even need to go far if you're after batteries in Geelong or batteries in Rockhampton. Everything is done online so you only have to wait for shipping, which is, by the way, FREE.
Thinking of using solar power? We have available solar panels here as well, including solar panel and battery bundles. Not a fan of complex installations? Try our inverter generators. Everything you need to keep your camping essentials running, you can find here. The best part is that everything is affordable and of proven quality, so hurry and shop now!