The voltage of a lithium-ion cell varies depending on its specific chemistry and size.
Voltage Range
- Nominal Voltage: This is the average voltage of a lithium-ion cell, typically between 3.6V and 3.7V.
- Full Charge Voltage: When fully charged, a lithium-ion cell can reach 4.2V.
- Cut-Off Voltage: To prevent damage, the cell should not be discharged below 2.5V or 3.0V, depending on the type.
Factors Affecting Voltage
- Chemistry: Different chemistries, like LiFePO4, LCO, or NMC, have different voltage ranges.
- Size: Smaller cells generally have lower voltage than larger cells.
- Temperature: Voltage can fluctuate with temperature changes.
Practical Insights
- Battery Packs: Multiple lithium-ion cells can be connected in series to increase the overall voltage of a battery pack.
- Voltage Monitoring: It's crucial to monitor the voltage of lithium-ion cells to ensure safe operation and prevent overcharging or over-discharging.