Is the battery that heats up during charging defective?
Is the battery that heats up during charging defective?
Not always. Moderate heating of the battery during charging is normal, especially with fast chargers. However, pronounced overheating may indicate a technical problem, incorrect charging or internal damage to the cell
Why does the battery pack overheat?
During charging chemical reactions take place in the battery in which some of the electrical energy is converted into heat. This is particularly noticeable with lithium-ion batteries, which charge quickly and at higher voltages. For standard charging, the heating of the Enclosures to a temperature not exceeding approximately 40-45°C is considered acceptable. In the case of fast charging (e.g. Quick Charge technology or USB Power Delivery), heat generation may be more intense, but is still within the limits of safe cell operation. Protection is provided by the built-in BMS (Battery Management System), which limits the charging current or interrupts the process if the permissible temperatures are exceeded.
When is heating a signal of concern?
Excessive or uneven heating of the battery can be a sign of battery degradation. This phenomenon can result from internal damage, a short circuit in the electrode structure, or improper charging - e.g. with a cheap, non-certified Chargers. Particular care should be taken if the Enclosures of the cell become hot at rest or give off an electrolyte odour. In such cases, there is a possible risk of the battery blowing (swelling) or even igniting. For safety reasons, stop charging immediately, disconnect the unit from the power supply and contact the service department.
The type of chemistry matters
Some technologies, such as NiMH (nickel-metal hydride), heat up more strongly at the end of the charge, which is used to detect when the charge is complete (known as delta T). Lithium-polymer and lithium-ion, on the other hand, are more sensitive to overheating and require better thermal control. In summary, moderate heating of the battery during charging is normal, but a marked increase in temperature may be indicative of a damaged cell or charger problem and should not be ignored.
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