Li-Ion batteries for BREL SOLAR solutions

What is the lifespan of BREL SOLAR motors with built-in Li-ion batteries?

For BREL SOLAR solutions, we use Li-Ion batteries. Why do we actually use these batteries? What about the lifespan of these batteries? What are important considerations that can affect the lifespan? We have outlined these for you.

The lifespan of a Li-Ion battery is estimated at 12 to 15 years

The lifespan of a Li-ion battery depends on the number of times it is charged and exposure to heat. The number of times a Li-ion battery can be charged is 500 times. However, these are complete discharges to full charges. Since a Solar motor is never completely discharged, only a little bit each time, this does not count as a full charge cycle and the battery will be minimally affected.

The lifespan of a Li-ion battery is now estimated at 12 to 15 years and depends on the intensity of use. The more you use the battery, the faster the capacity decreases. However, for sunshading, we use a battery that has a capacity of 3 to 4 months before it is empty (when used once a day). This ensures that there is never intense use of the battery's capacity, which extends the lifespan.

Lifespan of Li-Ion battery for sunshading versus car

The capacity of the battery for use in sunshading is different than for use in a car. If the capacity in a car is below 80%, it is already at the end of its lifespan for use. Whereas for sunshading, a capacity of 60% is still sufficient for daily use of the battery. Therefore, a Solar motor with a battery will have a much longer lifespan than in a car. The expected lifespan of the batteries will thus be between 12 to 15 years.

The influence of cold and heat on the Li-Ion battery

The capacity decreases when the battery becomes cold. It restores to the original level when the temperature returns to normal operating temperature (20 degrees). Heat is a bigger problem for a Li-ion battery. Once the temperature exceeds 80 degrees, irreversible damage can occur in the battery. The temperature inside a battery rises quickly with intensive use. In the case of overcapacity, the temperature in the battery will not rise as quickly. Because the battery is built into the motor, direct heating by the sun is not possible. The protection of the battery is better ensured than with a battery placed outside the motor.

Safety is an important consideration

Safety is also a major and important factor with a Li-ion battery. Due to intensive use, short circuits, or extreme heat (higher than 130 degrees), a battery can ignite. Because the battery is housed in the steel casing of the motor, ignition due to lack of oxygen is difficult. If ignition does occur, it will not escape the motor.

More information?

Want to know more about the lifespan of the Li-Ion battery? Then read these articles:
- https://www.anwb.nl/auto/elektrisch-rijden/accus-techniek-en-kosten

- https://www.want.nl/batterij-tesla-levensduur/

- https://www.tesla.com/ns_videos/2021-tesla-impact-report.pdf