Lead-acid batteries are the main type of batteries used in electric vehicles today. It is not an exaggeration to say that batteries are not worn out but rather damaged by improper charging. The charging performance of a battery plays a crucial role in its lifespan and overall performance, and must be taken seriously.
1. The depth of discharge of a battery has a significant impact on its cycle life. This is because the deeper the discharge, the greater the expansion and contraction of the electrodes, and the more active material on the positive electrode is shed, resulting in the loss of discharge characteristics, performance degradation, and ultimately, the end of the battery's lifespan. Therefore, deep discharge should be avoided as much as possible when using a battery. The optimal practice is to charge the battery when the depth of discharge is 50%-70%.
2. Continuing to discharge the battery beyond its termination voltage (over-discharge) will severely damage it. This is because irreversible sulfation easily forms at this point, reducing its rechargeability and potentially rendering it unrepairable. Therefore, over-discharge should be prevented during battery use, and "undervoltage protection" is an effective measure. While "undervoltage protection" is controlled by the electric vehicle's controller, power-consuming components such as the instrument panel and indicator lights are not controlled by the controller. Therefore, the battery starts using power as soon as the lock is engaged, even with a small current. Prolonged discharge will lead to over-discharge. Thus, the battery should not be left unlocked for extended periods and should be turned off immediately when not in use.
3. The charging current should be less than or equal to the battery's acceptable charging current. Otherwise, the excess current generated by overcharging will cause the electrolyte to be consumed too quickly and result in severe gas evolution. Over time, this will make charging very difficult. Therefore, overcharging should be avoided as much as possible. Chargers produced by reputable manufacturers can ensure that the battery is not overcharged.
4. Lead-acid batteries are particularly susceptible to damage from being discharged to a low charge. A discharged battery left for 3-7 days may suffer permanent damage. Therefore, please charge the battery as soon as possible after use. For batteries that are not used for extended periods, charge them approximately every 15 days to compensate for the self-discharge loss during storage.
5. During hot weather, the main problem with batteries is overcharging. Therefore, in summer, efforts should be made to lower the battery temperature, ensure good heat dissipation, prevent charging immediately after exposure to direct sunlight, and keep the battery away from heat sources. In low temperatures, charging mainly results in poor charge acceptance and insufficient charging, leading to battery depletion. In cold weather, insulation and antifreeze measures should be taken, especially during charging, the battery should be placed in a warm environment to ensure a full charge, prevent irreversible sulfation, and extend battery life.
6. Generally, batteries with a greater depth of discharge have a lifespan of about one year, while batteries with a depth of discharge of 50%-70% have a lifespan of about one and a half years. Some manufacturers produce batteries that can last for more than two years.
