batterypack

A batterypack is an assembly of individual battery cells or modules designed to store and deliver electrical energy for devices or systems. It provides higher voltage, greater capacity, and controlled power delivery beyond what a single cell can provide. A battery pack typically includes an enclosure, electrical interfaces, protection circuits, thermal management, and a battery management system to monitor and control cell operation.

Cells within a pack are connected in series to increase voltage and in parallel to increase capacity. Packs may contain multiple modules to meet specific power requirements. The Battery Management System (BMS) monitors cell voltages, temperatures, state of charge, and state of health; it performs cell balancing and protects against overcurrent, overcharge, short circuits, and thermal faults. Thermal management ranges from passive to active cooling depending on power demands. Connectors, fuses, and surge protection are common safety features.

Common chemistries include lithium-ion variants (such as lithium cobalt oxide, nickel manganese cobalt oxide, and lithium iron phosphate), nickel-metal hydride, and deep-cycle lead-acid. Lithium-ion variants dominate portable electronics and electric vehicles due to energy density and cycle life. Packs are often designed modularly to facilitate scaling, maintenance, and replacement of individual modules.

Safety and lifecycle considerations include the risk of thermal runaway from internal damage, improper charging, or external heat. Design standards, robust BMS, proper charging regimes, and protective enclosures help mitigate hazards. End-of-life management emphasizes recycling of metals and materials; many components are recyclable and manufacturers provide guidance on disposal.

Applications span consumer electronics, electric vehicles, stationary energy storage, and specialized tools. Design trade-offs focus on energy density, thermal management, safety, reliability, and cost.