Batteries and Bi-Directional Chargers Notes

Common Battery Types

• Several battery sizes are available, including AAA, AA, C, D, and 9V, each with specific voltage and chemical properties. These sizes are used in a variety of devices, from small electronics to larger appliances.

• Alkaline batteries are common and are labeled with designations like LR03 (AAA), LR6 (AA), LR14 (C), and LR20 (D), typically providing 1.5V. These batteries are known for their general-purpose use and moderate energy density.

• Lithium-ion batteries are also mentioned, with various subtypes tailored for different applications. Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable and offer high energy density, making them suitable for portable devices and electric vehicles.

Battery Components

• Key components of an alkaline battery include:

  • Steel-plated positive and negative covers: These provide structural integrity and prevent leakage.

  • Cathode (manganese dioxide, carbon, electrolyte): The cathode is where reduction occurs, with manganese dioxide acting as the primary active material.

  • Current collector (brass): Collects the electrical current generated by the electrochemical reactions.

  • Separator (nonwoven fabric, electrolyte): Prevents the anode and cathode from directly contacting each other, while allowing ion transport.

  • Metal washer and spur: Additional structural and conductive components.

  • Brass rivet: Used for assembling and connecting battery components.

  • Metallized polyvinyl chloride (PVC) label: Provides insulation and labeling information.

  • Steel can: The outer casing that contains all the battery components.

  • Anode gel (powdered zinc): The anode is where oxidation occurs, with powdered zinc as the active material.

  • Seal (nylon): Prevents leakage of the electrolyte.

  • Inner cell cover (steel): Provides an additional layer of protection and structural support.

Historical Context

• Alessandro Volta invented the battery in 1800, marking a significant milestone in the development of electrical power sources. Volta's invention paved the way for modern battery technology.

Lithium-Ion Battery Types

• Lithium-Cobalt Oxide Battery:

  • Used in handheld electronics (cell phones, laptops, cameras). Their high energy density makes them ideal for these portable devices.

  • Pose a risk when damaged, potentially leading to thermal runaway and fire.

  • Cobalt is scarce and expensive, impacting the overall cost of these batteries.

  • Low discharge rates, which can limit their use in high-power applications.

  • High energy density: 110-190 Wh/kg, providing long runtimes for devices.

• Lithium-Iron Phosphate Battery:

  • Reduces risks of overheating and fire, making them safer than some other lithium-ion variants.

  • Less volumetric capacity, meaning they may require more space for the same energy storage.

  • Used in power tools and medical equipment due to their safety and longevity.

  • Longer life and inherently safe, offering reliable performance over many charge cycles.

  • Lower energy density: 95-140 Wh/kg, but still suitable for many applications.

• Lithium-Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide Battery:

  • Longer life and inherent safety, making them a robust choice for demanding applications.

  • Cobalt is scarce and expensive, influencing the battery's cost.

  • Less prone to heating, enhancing safety during use.

  • Used in power tools, e-bikes, and electric power trains, providing a balance of power and safety.

  • Lower energy density: 95-130 Wh/kg.

• Lithium-Manganese Oxide Battery:

  • Lower cost, making them an economical option for various applications.

  • Longer life and inherently safe, providing reliable and safe performance.

  • Used in hybrid vehicles, cell phones, and laptops, offering a good balance of cost and performance.

  • High discharge rates, suitable for applications requiring quick power delivery.

  • Lower energy density: 110-120 Wh/kg.

• Lithium-Titanate Battery:

  • Can operate at very low temperatures (-40°C), making them suitable for extreme environments.

  • Rapid charge and discharge, allowing for quick replenishment and power delivery.

  • Used in Mitsubishi i-MiEV and other specialized applications.

  • Lower inherent voltage: 2.4V (compared to 3.7V of other lithium-ion batteries).

  • Lower energy density: 30-110 Wh/kg.

Liquid Metal Batteries

• Liquid metal batteries are also in development, indicated by a reference to a TED Talk by Donald Sadoway. These batteries offer potential advantages in terms of scalability and cost-effectiveness for large-scale energy storage.

Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G)

• Vehicle-to-Load (V2L):

  • Allows an EV to supply power to external loads via AC or DC, providing a mobile power source.

  • Combined loads cannot exceed the vehicle's V2L power rating (in kW), ensuring safe operation.

  • Cannot be charged while V2L is in use to prevent overloading the system.

• Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G):

  • Involves feeding power back from the vehicle to the grid, helping to stabilize the grid and potentially earning revenue for the vehicle owner. V2G technology is still in early stages of development and deployment.

Energy Usage

• An average efficient off-grid house uses 10 to 15 kWh per day, highlighting the energy needs of sustainable living.

• An average EV has a battery capacity of 65 kWh, providing a significant amount of stored energy for both transportation and potentially other uses.

Smart Power Integrated Node (SPIN)

• A 10kW residential microgrid system, designed to integrate various energy sources and provide reliable power.

• Features:

  • Solar PV input: Allows direct integration of solar power generation.

  • Stationary battery input: Enables storage of energy for later use.

  • Bidirectional DC charging with CCS (combined charging standard): Facilitates efficient charging and discharging of electric vehicles.

  • Vehicle to Home (V2H) functionality: Allows the EV to power the home.

  • Vehicle to Grid (V2G) capability: Enables the EV to supply power back to the grid.

  • Emergency backup with auto-islanding capability: Ensures continuous power supply during grid outages.

  • Whole-Home microgrid that can use EV, PV, and battery to power the home on-grid or off-grid, without requiring a critical load panel, simplifying installation and use.

  • Black-start capability to turn on with a power outage, providing a resilient power solution.

  • Highest safety levels with galvanic isolation, protecting against electrical hazards.

Ford F-150 Lightning Power

• The F-150 Lightning can automatically begin powering a home when connected to an 80-amp Ford Charge Station Pro, offering seamless power backup.

• With an extended-range battery, it can power a home for three days, or up to 10 days if power is rationed (assuming 30 kWh use per day), demonstrating its capability as a reliable backup power source.

Portable Power Backup

• Examples include Goal Zero Yeti and Jackery Explorer portable power stations, which provide AC, USB-C, and 12V outputs, offering versatile power solutions for various devices and appliances.

NEOVOLTA Battery

• NV14 Solar Home Battery:

  • Storage Capacity: 14.4 kWh (with +9.6 kWh Add On Option (NV24) for 24 kWh total), providing scalable energy storage solutions.

  • Installation: Indoor/Outdoor (capable of generator integration), offering flexible installation options.

  • Dimensions:

    • NV14: 50.5" H x 38" W x 10" D

    • NV24: 42.0" H x 20" W x 10" D (additional)

  • Power: 7.6 kW (nominal), 8.4 kW (peak).

  • Energy Efficiency: 94% charge.

  • Warranty: 10 Years.

  • Battery Chemistry: Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4).

  • Operating Temp: -4°F to 140°F (-20°C to 60°C).

Tesla Powerwall

• Integration with solar assembly and gateway for backup power, offering a comprehensive energy solution.

Shutdown Procedure

• Turn off the inverter AC.

• Turn off the PV array boy located next to the premises or the inverter.