Why Do We Need To Add A Protective Board (PCB/PCM) To Rechargeable Lithium Batteries?

Adding a protection board to rechargeable lithium batteries is crucial for several reasons:

1. Prevent Overcharging:

• Lithium batteries can be damaged or even become hazardous if overcharged. A protection board prevents the voltage from exceeding a safe limit, typically around 4.2V per cell.

  
  

2. Prevent Over-Discharging:

• Discharging a lithium battery below a certain voltage (usually around 2.5-3.0V per cell) can cause permanent damage and reduce its capacity. The protection board ensures the battery doesn't discharge too much.

  
  

3. Prevent Overcurrent and Short Circuits:

• Excessive current flow or short circuits can cause the battery to overheat, leading to potential fire or explosion. The protection board monitors the current and disconnects the circuit if unsafe levels are detected.

  
  

4. Maintain Cell Balance:

• In multi-cell battery packs, the protection board helps balance the voltage of each cell, ensuring they charge and discharge evenly. This balance is crucial for the battery's performance and lifespan.

  
  

5. Temperature Control:

• Some protection boards monitor the temperature of the battery to prevent overheating during charging or discharging, adding an extra layer of safety.

Overall, a protection board is essential for the safe operation, longevity, and performance of rechargeable lithium batteries.