Do sodium-ion motorcycle batteries need battery management systems?

Do sodium-ion motorcycle batteries need a built-in BMS? This is a highly controversial question. The debate ostensibly centers on the necessity of using a BMS, but essentially, it stems from the increased battery cost associated with its inclusion. End consumers' price sensitivity and acceptance of sodium-ion motorcycle batteries have the most direct impact on their purchasing decisions. 

 

Although sodium-ion motorcycle batteries have a lifespan several times longer than lead-acid batteries, even with a built-in BMS, their initial purchase cost is indeed higher for consumers than that of the same model of lead-acid motorcycle battery. 

 

If a sodium-ion motorcycle battery is not equipped with a BMS, its biggest product safety challenge will come from battery charging. The following explains the conditions for charging a sodium-ion motorcycle battery using an alternator. 

 

Sodium-ion motorcycle batteries possess excellent fast-charging capabilities and can be efficiently charged using an alternator within a temperature range of 0℃ to +60℃. However, within a temperature range of -10℃ to 0℃, sodium-ion motorcycle batteries cannot be fast charged, and their charging current should be limited; otherwise, the degradation of the sodium-ion motorcycle battery will be accelerated. 

 

Charging a sodium-ion motorcycle starter battery at temperatures below -10°C will accelerate its degradation; while charging it at temperatures above 60°C will not only accelerate its degradation, but may even cause thermal runaway. 

 

Furthermore, the upper limit of charging voltage for a 12V sodium-ion motorcycle battery should not exceed 14.8V; otherwise, the battery will be at risk of overcharging. Although the maximum output voltage of an alternator will not normally exceed 14.8V, it is entirely possible that the alternator might output a higher voltage when malfunctioning. 

 

To ensure that the sodium-ion motorcycle battery does not exceed its charging temperature and voltage range, it is absolutely necessary to equip it with a BMS that has charging temperature, and charging voltage protection functions. 

 

About DEFORD New Power Co., Ltd.

 

DEFORD New Power Co., Ltd. is committed to design and manufacture advanced, safe and reliable lithium-ion, sodium-ion battery systems. We are veterans of battery industry, and our core team has more than 20 years battery expertise.

 

Thanks to our deep understanding to battery technology, battery management system (BMS), and expertise on mechanics and thermodynamics. With the assistance of our advanced manufacturing facilities and cloud-based manufacturing execution system (MES). We do have the ability to guarantee the high quality, safety and reliability of your battery systems. 

 

For any inquiries about sodium-ion motorcycle batteries, please contact us by info@deford.com.cn.