What Is the Difference Between Lithium Iron Phosphate and Other Batteries

Finding the right power source to run your devices or business components is never as easy as it sounds. There are so many things to consider, and you cannot just choose any battery that comes up. Technological advancement in this industry has led to the manufacture of various devices like EVs, portable power tools, and more, which is why choosing the right battery is extremely important.

Lithium-based batteries have emerged as the best-performing options, with lithium-ion as the leading technology. You will find a li-ion battery in almost every device in the world today.

However, another technology has come up that could easily overtake li-ion batteries - lithium ion phosphate. These batteries seem to offer more capacity and better performance than others.

And today, we shall be looking at their differences from other batteries, especially li-ion. Keep reading.

The Difference Between Lithium Ion Phosphate with Li-ion Batteries

How is a lithium phosphate different from a lithium-ion battery? We can answer this question by looking at the most crucial aspects of batteries.

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Chemistry

In the world of batteries, a C-rate is used in describing and governing battery discharge rates. A battery rated as 1C is fully charged at a 1AH rate and should deliver a 1A charge every hour.

This is one of the main factors that differentiate battery chemistries. Lithium-ion and lithium-ion phosphate batteries have different rates, and their chemistries widely differ.

Lithium-ion (li-ion) batteries mostly contain multiple chemistries of lithium manganese/cobalt dioxide and cathode. This is because they come with different graphite anodes requiring the right cathode material. These batteries feature an energy capacity of 150/200 watt-hours per KG and offer a voltage of 3.6, with a 1C discharge range. It can be charged at a rate anywhere between 0.7C and 1.0C.

Lithium-ion phosphate (LiFePO4/LFP) batteries have a graphite anode and an ion phosphate cathode.?The batteries deliver an energy density of 90/120 watt-hours per KG. Its voltage ranges between 3.2V and 3.3V with a charge rate of 1C. The batteries can be charged at 1-25C.

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Energy Level

Another feature differentiating the two batteries is the energy levels. On the one hand, LFP batteries come with 90/120 energy density, while li-ion batteries offer 150/200 Wh/Kg. Thus, li-ion cells are much higher, so they are used more in electronics that demand high power consumption.

Life Cycle

One of the biggest limitations of li-ion batteries is their instability, especially when used under higher or freezing temperatures. Most of these batteries will give your charge-discharge cycles of between 500 and 1000. They are not very effective when it comes to durability.

LFPs, on the other hand, has focused more on durability. These batteries deliver between 1000 and 1000 cycles making them suitable for applications that require running for long periods on a single charge. They also perform much better under strenuous conditions, which is why they are preferred in devices that operate under higher temperatures.

Storage

We all want batteries that can be stored for long periods of time without getting damaged. A good battery should give out the desired energy, regardless of how long they have been stored. Li-ion batteries can last for about 300 days, while LFPs can extend to 350 or 400 days.

Safety

It is crucial to choose a battery that promises maximum safety. Lithium-ion phosphate batteries have excellent chemical and thermal stability. It stays cooler even under higher temperatures with no risk of thermal runaway. The high energy density of li-ion batteries makes them less stable.

Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery Disadvantages

Even though LFP promise a greater performance compared to other batteries, they have several disadvantages that are important to mention. Here are some of the limitations to expect.

More Expensive

On average, LFPs cost a lot more than li-ion and other batteries on the market. Even though prices are expected to fall eventually, they seem too expensive for what they offer. The main reason for their high cost is durability and stability.

Energy Density

When buying batteries, energy density is among the most important factors to consider. It determines how much power you will get to run your device and the specific device to use. Unfortunately, LFP batteries have a lower energy density than li-ion batteries, making them unsuitable for extremely lightweight applications like smartphones and watches.

Higher Discharge Rate

We also look at the discharge rate when buying or recommending a battery. You need a battery that offers the right rate to enjoy using it for a long time. LFP batteries come with a slight discharge rate compared to other lithium-based batteries. They are only suitable for higher energy density applications requiring longer running on a single charge.

Regulation Issues

LFP batteries require extra components like balances and regulators to operate properly. Without these, they can easily get damaged during charging and use. Also, it may increase use complexity and cost.

Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery Price

The high price is one of the biggest limitations of LFP batteries. They cost a lot more than other lithium batteries even though they offer better performance.

One of the main reasons for the price is that they require extra components to keep them safe. Thus, it might take more to manufacture such a battery and make it user-friendly.

Also, the exact price depends on the specific battery composition and size. Some may cost as low as $9, while others can cost more than $6000. The good news is you can always find one that fits your needs.

Lithium Ion Phosphate Battery Lifespan

A lithium-ion phosphate battery promises great durability. A super B battery can live for more than 5000 cycles at 80% depth of discharging. It will not decrease performance or show any signs of weakness all this while.

On average, a lithium-ion battery will give you about 1000 charge cycles. While this is a good performance, it is still much lower than an LFP battery. Lead-acid batteries are even less effective, with the ability to last for only two years.

So, if you are looking for the most durable battery with low maintenance, go for an LFP battery. They may be more expensive, but the long-term returns are greater.