18650 energy storage module photos

What is an 18650 battery?

An 18650 battery is a lithium-ion battery. The name derives from the battery’s specific measurements: 18mm x 65mm. For scale, that’s larger than an AA battery. The 18650 battery has a voltage of 3.6v and has between 2600mAh and 3500mAh (mili-amp-hours).

Can you build a custom battery pack with 18650 cells?

With 18650 cells as cheap and plentiful as they are, you’d think building your own custom battery packs would be simple. Unfortunately, soldering the cells is tricky, and not everyone is willing to invest in a spot welding setup just to put the tabs on them.

What is a 18650 rechargeable lithium ion cell?

Look no further than the 18650 rechargeable lithium ion cell. These cylindrical powerhouses are quickly becoming popular in a variety of applications, from flashlights to electric vehicles. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right one for your needs?

How do 18650 cells work?

The electrodes on the 18650 cells has a fuse-wire connecting each one to a thick aluminum bus-plate. These wires are connected to the cell tip by using an ultrasonic bonding machine (high-speed vibrations), which cause no heat to penetrate even the upper layer of the cell, much less the electrolyte.

Should I use a protected 18650 battery?

As a rule of thumb, we always recommend using protected 18650 batteries. 18650 protected batteries have an electric circuit embedded within its packaging. This circuit protects the battery from “over charges” and “over discharges.” Both are situations you want to avoid. When a battery over charges, it can overheat, burst or catch fire.

What are the advantages of 18650 batteries?

One major advantage of 18650 batteries is their capacity. They can hold a larger amount of energy than disposable alkaline batteries, making them ideal for high-drain applications such as flashlights or vape mods. Another benefit is that they are rechargeable and can be used multiple times before needing to be replaced.