Why LiFePO4 Batteries Have Become the Mainstream Choice for AGVs
In modern automated logistics and manufacturing, Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) have become vital tools for improving production efficiency and reducing labor costs. However, companies not only expect AGVs to operate smoothly but also require them to function efficiently and reliably over long periods, consistently handling transportation tasks while maintaining sufficient battery life to adapt to complex and dynamic work environments. The battery, as the core power source of the AGV, plays a critical role in achieving these goals. The battery’s endurance, charging efficiency, and stability directly affect whether the AGV can maintain continuous and stable operations, impacting the overall efficiency and productivity of the automated system. Therefore, selecting a high-performance battery is key to enabling AGVs to operate optimally.
Currently, the most commonly used battery types in AGVs include lead-acid batteries, LiFePO4 batteries, and ternary lithium batteries. Due to the high production cost and lower safety of ternary lithium batteries compared to LiFePO4 batteries, we will focus on comparing the performance differences between LiFePO4 batteries and lead-acid batteries.
Lead-Acid Batteries
In the early stages, AGVs commonly used lead-acid batteries. However, with technological advances and the emergence of problems during actual use, lead-acid batteries have gradually been phased out of the market for several reasons:
Low Energy Density: For the same voltage and capacity, lead-acid batteries weigh approximately three times more than LiFePO4 batteries. The added weight poses two problems: first, it reduces the effective load capacity of the AGV. For example, if an AGV has a load capacity of 100kg and the battery weighs 20kg, the actual effective load will only be 80kg. Second, for AGVs that require frequent battery replacement, heavier batteries make the replacement process more difficult.
Poor Endurance: The discharge curve of lead-acid batteries is parabolic. When fully charged, the voltage peaks, but as the battery discharges, the voltage drops rapidly. Once the voltage falls below the working range, continuing to use the battery can damage it. As a result, voltage protection mechanisms are often put in place,further shortening the actual effective runtime.
Short Lifespan: The lifespan of lead-acid batteries is roughly one-quarter that of LiFePO4 batteries, meaning they need to be replaced more frequently, which increases maintenance and operating costs. Additionally, lead-acid batteries contain harmful heavy metals (such as lead), which can cause severe environmental pollution if not handled properly.
LiFePO4 Batteries
Compared to lead-acid batteries, LiFePO4 batteries (Lithium Iron Phosphate) have become the ideal choice in the AGV market due to their safety, long lifespan, environmental friendliness, and low maintenance costs. Key advantages include:
High Safety: LiFePO4 batteries are highly thermally and chemically stable, able to withstand high temperatures without risk of explosion or fire. This exceptional safety is particularly suitable for AGVs that need to operate continuously for long periods, significantly reducing the risk of accidents.
Long Cycle Life: LiFePO4 batteries typically have a charge/discharge cycle life exceeding 2,000 cycles, significantly reducing the frequency of replacements and related maintenance costs. In AGV systems that require prolonged use, LiFePO4 batteries effectively support long-term, efficient operations.
Environmentally Friendly: Unlike lead-acid batteries that contain harmful heavy metals, LiFePO4 batteries are free of toxic substances such as lead. This makes them less harmful to the environment during production and disposal, aligning with modern companies’ sustainability goals.
Low Maintenance Costs: LiFePO4 batteries are stable, maintenance-free, long-lasting, and less prone to damage. AGV operators can greatly reduce daily battery maintenance and replacement costs, thereby improving the overall economic and operational efficiency of the equipment.
Equipped with Smart BMS: LiFePO4 batteries are equipped with a Battery Management System (BMS) to ensure the consistency of the cells, which guarantees stable overall performance of the battery.
For example, PLB AGV batteries utilize high-consistency LiFePO4 cells, paired with a self-developed Battery Management System (BMS). This system not only supports fast charging with a 2C current but also ensures that the battery achieves balanced regulation of each cell during charging and discharging, further enhancing the reliability of LiFePO4 batteries in AGV applications.
With their superior safety, long cycle life, environmental friendliness, low maintenance costs, and excellent balancing capabilities, LiFePO4 batteries have become the mainstream choice for AGVs. They meet modern companies’ demands for efficient, stable, and eco-friendly equipment, serving as a key driving force behind the continued growth of automated logistics and manufacturing industries.