What is a Polymer Battery Pack?
A polymer battery pack, more accurately known as a lithium-ion polymer (LiPo) battery pack, is a rechargeable battery that uses a polymer electrolyte instead of the traditional liquid electrolyte found in other lithium-ion batteries.
These advanced battery packs are becoming increasingly popular due to their unique characteristics and features, making them essential for modern electronic devices. In this blog, we will explore what makes LiPo battery packs stand out, their advantages, and the wide range of applications they power.
Characteristics of Polymer Battery Packs
Electrolyte Composition
Polymer battery packs use a gel-like or solid polymer electrolyte, which differs from the liquid electrolytes used in traditional lithium-ion batteries. This unique composition allows LiPo batteries to be more flexible in design, enabling them to meet the varied requirements of different devices.
Form Factor
Thanks to their polymer electrolytes, LiPo battery packs are flexible and lightweight. They can be designed in various shapes and sizes, which is particularly beneficial for applications where space and weight are critical factors, such as in mobile devices and wearable technology.
Voltage and Capacity
LiPo battery packs generally have a nominal voltage range between 3.2V and 3.7V per cell. Their capacity can vary widely, ranging from 500mAh to 3000mAh, depending on the application. This versatility in capacity makes them suitable for a broad range of electronic devices.
Energy Density
LiPo batteries offer high energy density, allowing them to store significant energy relative to their size and weight. Although their energy density may be slightly lower compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries, their compact form factor and adaptability make them highly desirable for many applications.
Advantages of Polymer Battery Packs
Customisable Shapes
One of the biggest advantages of LiPo batteries is their ability to be customized in shape and size. This makes them ideal for compact electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, and wearable technology, where efficient use of space is critical.
Safety Features
LiPo battery packs use a solid or gel-like electrolyte, which reduces the risk of leakage and thermal runaway. This makes them a safer alternative than batteries with liquid electrolytes, which are more prone to leaks and overheating.
Lightweight Design
LiPo batteries are lighter than other lithium-ion batteries with similar capacities, as they do not require a metal casing. This lightweight design contributes to the portability of devices, making LiPo batteries an excellent choice for mobile and wearable electronics.
At Active Components, we collaborate closely with leading global battery manufacturers to provide customised LiPo battery solutions tailored to meet specific customer requirements.
Our partnerships ensure that we deliver high-quality battery packs designed for optimal performance, safety, and fit across a wide range of industries.
Applications of Polymer Battery Packs
Consumer Electronics
Polymer battery packs are widely used in consumer electronics, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and wearable devices. Their flexible and lightweight design suits them well-suited for these compact devices requiring efficient power solutions.
Remote-Controlled Models
Drones, RC cars, boats, and aircraft are some examples of remote-controlled models that benefit from the high discharge rates and lightweight nature of LiPo batteries. These features help deliver better performance and extended flight or run times.
Medical and IoT Devices
LiPo batteries are also commonly used in medical and IoT devices due to their customizable size and ability to provide a low-profile power source. This makes them ideal for small medical monitors, fitness trackers, and other devices.
Other Applications
Polymer battery packs are also used in a wide range of other applications, including robotics, portable power banks, and industrial equipment.
Why choose Active Components?
- Extensive Industry Experience: With over 41 years in the electronics component industry, we bring deep expertise across various projects. Our experience allows us to deliver high-quality, reliable custom electronic components tailored to our customers’ needs.
- Collaboration with Global Manufacturers: We work closely with leading global manufacturers to customise components, such as battery packs and other electronic parts, to meet specific customer requirements.
- Inventory Management and Stock Availability: We offer inventory management services with stock options in both New Zealand and Hong Kong. This ensures our customers can quickly adapt to demand spikes or align with demand forecasts, providing flexibility and reliability.