Your Guide to Lithium-ion Batteries

February 7, 2017 No comments Article

Lithium-ion batteries are a popular power source used in both consumer and industrial devices. Whilst lithium-ion technology is slowly evolving with new battery products introduced to the market regularly, its influence in various industries is undeniable and more and more devices are utilising this reliable and rechargeable solution.

As the UK’s most established manufacturer of battery technology Steatite Batteries shares their expertise on this leading energy source…

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Where are Li-ion batteries used?

As a rechargeable battery product lithium-ion batteries are used in an array of gadgets throughout the consumer, commercial and industrial sector. Lithium-ion’s lightweight and high energy density make it the perfect accompaniment for portable devices, including smartphones, laptops, tablets, digital cameras, electronic cigarettes, torches and handheld consoles.

In addition to this, lithium-ion batteries are also used in power tools, particularly cordless tools like sanders, drills and hedge trimmers. It’s not just smaller items that take advantage of this technology, electric and hybrid vehicles are also powered using lithium-ion battery packs.

How does lithium-ion technology work

Lithium-ion batteries come in a variety of chemistries, sizes and weights, each of which can be adapted further to suit the purpose of the application. Li-ion cells can be cylindrical or prismatic depending on the application, and contain sensors to monitor battery temperature.

Lithium-ion products are revered for their safety, and the battery itself contains a voltage converter and regulator circuit to maintain safe levels of current and voltage. A voltage tap is also used to monitor the energy capacity of each individual cell. Deeper inside the battery you’ll find a charge state monitor, which is a small computer that implements the charging process to ensure your device reaches full power quickly.

All of these components are encased in a metal body to ensure the overall unit is fully pressurised. Together with a positive electrode, negative electrode and separator, all of these components work together to form a charge mechanism.

The pros and cons of lithium-ion

There are many advantages and disadvantages when it comes to lithium-ion batteries. The low weight of the battery is one of its main plus points, making it a popular power source for portable devices. In comparison with Nickel Metal Hydride batteries, Li-ion products hold their charge more effectively, making the battery last much longer.

Unlike many battery types, lithium-ion batteries have no memory, making them a low maintenance option. Li-ion batteries do not require full discharges before they can be recharged and are tough enough to handle a number of charge and partial discharge cycles.

On the other hand, lithium-ion batteries are prone to breakdown and incorrect storage can cause them to degrade rapidly. Lithium-ion is particularly sensitive to high temperatures and it is recommended that you store at room temperature to keep the battery in optimum condition.

For further advice on lithium-ion technology, please visit our website.

Imagine a Summer Holiday with Your Name on It

December 31, 2016 No comments Article

Many people dream of owning a holiday home but assume that it is financially beyond their reach. In fact, it can be more affordable than you think, provided that you consider several important factors. This article outlines some of the questions to ask.

What Size Does It Need To Be?
Be honest. Think about how big a holiday home actually needs to be, rather than how big you would like it to be. Do you need that extra bedroom? What about a second bathroom? ‘Like’ and ‘Need’ can be very different!

Work Out A Budget
If you have done any research at all, you might have an idea about how much a holiday home could cost. If you are not able to stretch to a conventional ‘second home,’ consider a static caravan. You get similar benefits as you would from a house such as familiar location and the ability to build relationships with locals, but at a fraction of the fee Remember though all affordable static caravans for sale will incur running costs, in much the same way as a main home does. Do consider:

Finance options

Park fees, often annual

Rates

Warranty

Cost of ‘extras’ such as steps

After the initial purchase price:

Insurance

Fuel costs (gas/electricity)

Linen

Crockery/cutlery

Small appliances (kettle/toaster)

Also, going to the same place every holiday could become a bit stagnant!

Lipsi Island in the Dodec 008

Location, Location, Location
Consider how far you want to travel; a longer distance and you might feel more like you’re going away, but if your holiday home/caravan is closer to home, might you use it more regularly and visit at weekends, too?

If you want to allow other people to use your caravan and they will pay for that privilege, check that the park will allow rentals. Check, too, whether the park amenities match your requirements and if not, are you willing to compromise? Children’s clubs are often on the list because parents would like to get a little peace and quiet, so a crrche would be great although it is not exactly necessary.

A holiday home must be just that; somewhere to come to on holiday, so it is not permitted to live in all year-round.

What Will The Space Be For?

Somewhere to relax and read a book

A place to escape the daily bustle

Another big plus for buying a static caravan is that if it is on a park, it might be possible to ‘trade in’ and upgrade towards the end of the term. Depreciation is a definite concern and many parks will allow a straight upgrade.

Be as picky as you like. This is a major purchase, so must be done only when you are happy and ready to make the commitment. As with your main home, add personal touches to ensure the space reflects your family’s personality. There are parks and independents with affordable static caravans for sale, so take your time and have a good look around. Perhaps even book in to some caravan parks for a weekend and ‘try before you buy.’

AUTHOR BIO:

Tom Campbell writes regularly on travel topics for various websites and blogs. He has recently sold his caravan, looking to buy a gite in France soon, but knows that there are affordable static caravans for sale all over the UK.