Discussion on 18650 sleeves

Batteries are essential in the modern world of technology. There are very many devices being manufactured that need electrical power and cannot work on direct power output. For the sake of portability and convenience, batteries have been brought into the picture.

Among the many types of batteries and chemistries, 18650 batteries are a better technology than most. They are called 18650 because they are bigger than the normal AA and AAA batteries. Apart from this, they are rechargeable and hence used in many power banks.

Using these batteries is not as easy as it seems though. There are a lot of risks involved. There have been many cases of batteries and devices exploding, causing concerns over the use of such necessities. Batteries can cause loss of lives if they are not well used.

Does it, therefore, mean we should stop using 18650 batteries altogether·  This is the time when batteries are much needed.

There are many ways to ensure your device does not get damaged from battery explosions. One way is by getting the right sleeves for your battery. 18650 battery sleeves are protective layers used to cover battery packs to avoid disasters and increase their life span.

18650 battery insulation sleeve necessary

In one incident, someone using a 18650 battery discovered his batteries were not working properly. It happened at once, and they decided to take for replacement. Upon checking the issue, it was established that the black insulator sleeve was no longer good for the battery. It was beaten up and therefore could not function normally.

Battery sleeves may seem to kill the batteries faster. If you find someone who is not very experienced, they will remove the sleeve and give you back the battery stating it will give your batteries a longer life.

But before you take that road, consider this; the sleeve is like a blanket that protects your battery from extreme temperatures. Apart from that, it has a side benefit of shock proofing.

Let’s look at this in detail.

18650 batteries are made with chemicals. From the cathode to the anode, some chemistry takes place to ensure the proper flow of energy.

These reactions are very much affected by the outside temperature. For instance, if gasses into the chemicals, the batteries will swell and chances of an explosion are very high. And this is why they are encased in an insulated jacket or rather a plastic housing.

The aim of this insulation is to allow normal temperatures to be kept. There are temperature changes in the environment all the time, more so when the battery is in use. The insulation ensures the changes take effect slowly. Any abrupt change in the internal composition will affect the overall life of your battery.

Many DIY and professionals mechanics discard the insulated cover when replacing the battery. That is one mistake you should not try now that you know. Aside from risking an explosion, removing the insulator sleeve shortens the battery life.

Batteries start losing their power the moment they leave the factory. The more you use them, the more they degrade. 18650 batteries are used in power banks and other small electrical appliances. Over time, the insulation may shrink, exposing the chemicals inside to external dangers. Besides, some internal components are not supposed to meet, and the insulation ensures that never happens.

It is not recommended to travel with 18650 batteries on a plane. There have been instances where certain reactions caused explosions, bringing down the planes. As such, you are advised to put your batteries inside protective sleeves before boarding, unless they are inside the device.

The importance of 18650 battery insulators cannot be ignored. The last thing you want is your batteries touching each other and causing a problem you would have avoided.

Battery sleeves serve as shock absorbers as well. Many times we face incidents where the batteries may drop accidentally. Such accidents cause internal damages if the impact is hard. Putting a sleeve over your batteries can reduce the impact, protecting you from incurring extra costs.

Types of 18650 battery sleeve

18650 battery sleeves come in different types and sizes. The major component that makes the differences regards the materials contained in the sleeves. These include:

· Heat Shrinkable PVC. This is one of the most common materials used in making sleeves. It can shrink when heated. You can use this to wrap around your batteries in a pack, especially when creating a power bank.

· Silicone. Silicone is a great material in making protective layers. A good silicone sleeve will keep your batteries safe and impact-free.

· Paper sleeve. There are some sleeves made from paper material. They are cheaper and are great for temporary storage, for instance when traveling with extra batteries.

· Cable sleeves. Cable sleeves appear like made ready insulators you can just insert your batteries. They are heavier and do a better insulating job that many other insulators.

Protective sleeves are among the necessary items you should have when using 18650 batteries. It is not just about safety, but for protecting your batteries against damage as well. Choosing the right insulator type is key to getting the best out of your batteries.

How to use 18650 battery sleeve properly

18650 batteries are popular in many portable devices. One needs to, however, understand the best way to use them. It may seem easy, but there is a lot that can go wrong. Consider the tips below.

· Ensure the sleeves are intact. The wraps on your batteries must always be kept in pristine condition. Keep checking them for any nicks and if you notice an issue, replace them immediately.

· Do not remove the sleeves. Some DIY think removing the sleeves improves battery performance. They only do the opposite.

· Get the right batteries. Before you even pick your sleeves, consider the batteries you are using. This is what matters the most because wrong batteries may not serve you as you expect.

· Keep batteries in cases. When batteries come into contact, they increase the chances of short-circuiting. Constant knocking against each other may make things worse. Keep your batteries in cases whenever they are not in use. This will save you from potential explosions as well.

Conclusion

Batteries have evolved greatly over the years. They have become essential for many devices. 18650 battery types are among the most powerful ones.

However, the batteries come with risks that cannot be overlooked. With the tips shared in this discussion, you and your batteries are safe. Using insulating sleeves offers more than just longer life for your batteries.