Jan 09, 2021 Pageview:583
Since we all use appliances and things that run on or use batteries, most of us may have come across overcharged batteries. Generally, these batteries can be a lot of hassle, and at other times one may not even realize that their battery is overcharged. This dilemma leads to a lot of questions concerning the safety and usage of overcharged batteries.
The biggest fear for anyone coming across an overcharged battery is of it exploding. Therefore, it is important to discuss if an overcharged battery can explode, and what are the types and circumstances that could lead to such a tragedy.
It depends on the type of battery
There are various types of batteries, and not all of them can explode.
?Some batteries, like lead and sulphuric acid batteries, may explode because sparks start to ignite after overcharging; and if both oxygen and hydrogen are together during the spark, it leads to a disastrous reaction that may send shrapnel and acid sprays around in the vicinity.
?Some batteries, like car batteries, usually shut-down permanently if they are overcharged.
?Some batteries are designed in a way to prevent overcharging (example discussed below).
Circumstances must be considered
While it is understood that the type of battery is the main determining factor, we should keep in mind that circumstances also have their impact. For example:
?Heat makes it more prone for the battery to explode.
?The battery may or may not explode depending on the user’s usage.
Smartphone batteries do not explode anymore
It is important to remember that smartphone batteries now are not likely to explode unless you have a model that is considerably older. This is due to the fact that batteries today are “smart batteries”, which means they have been designed in a way that they considerably decrease the input of electricity they are receiving, and by the time a phone’s battery is at 100%, their charging capacity is at minimal.
This was done because lithium-ion batteries before would overcharge and explode, and it would not only damage the phone but also harm the owners. This system of batteries was developed after that.
It is important to diagnose an overcharged battery, and for that, you need to know if an overcharged battery works or not. Unfortunately, the answer to this is quite ambiguous, and a little exploration is required:
An overcharged battery may work with inconsistencies
If you have an overcharged battery, it may work but with inconsistencies. By inconsistencies I mean:
You will hear a spark from the battery every now and then, and it may also impact the performance of the object that you are using.
If you are using a device with a screen, you may notice it fluctuating a little bit.
Occasionally, your device may also turn off due to it being unable to bear excessive charge.
You need to understand that an overcharged battery does not mean performance will improve. The wiring has a capacity, and if it receives more than it can take, it will only damage, not improve.
There is a threat of burning up of devices’ components
If you are using an overcharged battery, your device may work but it would ultimately lead to the components of your object damaging, especially due to burns. We have already discussed how extra charge will give off excessive heat energy, and damage the system, it will not improve the performance of the system at all. This means that using overcharged batteries is not sustainable.
Usability may not be there for certain cases
Some devices may be designed in a way that they do not accept overcharged batteries. Similarly, some batteries may have a malfunctioning feature to stop themselves from being used if they become overcharged. All of this is to protect the wiring and components, ultimately.
Now that we have discussed if an overcharged battery is used, one of the primary concerns would be to see if there is any way to fix an “overcharged” battery.
Consider Discharging and charging it again
One of the primary solutions to “fixing” overcharged batteries is discharging them first and recharging them again, but this time to the normal amount. It is a good strategy because overcharging leads to devastating consequences, and if you discharge it and bring it to normal levels, it will make your battery perfectly usable again, with no technical problems.
There are several methods of discharging a battery, so some precautions must be taken:
Most batteries can be discharged by all means, but not all means may be safe or ideal for them.
Consult an expert to see what kind of discharging method is ideal for your battery, and do it accordingly.
Make sure you have taken all the necessary precautions to avoid potential damage during the discharging process.
The damage could be irreversible
While it is okay to reuse a discharged battery, it should be noted that during the overcharging process some potential damage would also have resulted to the battery itself, which would have made the battery unfit for usage. In that case, you may not be able to reuse a battery, unless you replace its components. However, just buying a new battery would be better off than simply replacing the components.
Use professional disposing means for overcharged batteries
Batteries aren’t like normal objects, that you can dispose of by just throwing them in the bin. They need to be disposed of properly, and it is especially important for overcharged batteries because they are generally more dangerous. In the worst-case scenario, they can be a potential time-bomb.
It would be best for you to replace your battery if the previous one has been overcharged. It ensures your satisfaction and also ensures the good health of your devices. Though, “fixing” steps may be taken in case of emergencies or financial limitations. We hope this guide will help you with answers to overcharged battery.
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