The humble battery system: it’s used in all walks of life, but rarely do we give it a second thought. On this page, we’re going to be taking a closer look at battery systems, telling you exactly what they are and what their components are. And we know what we’re talking about, as we’ve been a leading name in the battery industry for decades!
Explained: The Battery System
So, let’s jump in and take a look at what exactly a battery system is. In its simplest terms, a battery system is a combination of many components, all of which work together to create an effective place for energy to be stored and discharged.
You’ll find several key components in a battery system, and we’ve listed them below.
Battery cells
- Cells. Battery cells store electrical energy in a chemical form, typically as lithium-ion or lead-acid, although other versions are also available. A battery system might just have a single cell, or it could have several cells linked together in series, to increase performance.
One of the biggest questions to answer when designing a battery is which type of cells should be used? The answer depends on the intended application and specific requirements. For example, lithium-ion batteries are regularly used in portable electronics, as they have high energy density and performance.
Battery management system
- Battery management system (BMS). The BMS monitors and controls the charging and discharging of the batteries, ensuring performance, safety, and longevity. Often, the BMS can communicate with the device using the battery for optimal effectiveness.
Not all batteries have built in BMS – for example, batteries used in small electronic devices often don’t have one. But a BMS is recommended in many situations. There are many to choose from, and the best way to choose which to use for your application is by liaising with a knowledgeable expert – such as the people here at Johnson Matthey Battery System.
Cell connectors
- Cell connectors: In order to work in unison, each cell needs to be connected to the others. This is done using cell connectors.
There are three main ways in which cells can be connected: gap junctions, tight junctions, and desmosomes. Each type has a different purpose. As with the BMS, our experts can tell you which cell connector your battery system needs.
Cell holders and housing
- Cell holders and housing. Cells need to be held in place properly to ensure maximum durability and performance. Housing comes in many forms and can often be customised to fit perfectly with the intended application.
Battery systems are an integral part of the world and will only continue developing as companies pour money into research and development. And JMBS is at the forefront of this push, aiming to improve the efficiency, capacity, safety, and environmental impact of battery systems.
Should you desire further information, kindly contact our specialist.