In the era of ever-expanding electronics, the significance of rigorous battery testing cannot be overstated. Our world is increasingly relying on electronics everyday from smartphones, laptops, and smartwatches, to electric vehicles and renewable energy systems. As the demand for batteries rises, new technologies are being researched and developed to rival current technology. Industries across landscapes are searching for more efficient, cost-effective, and longer-lasting batteries.
As battery technology evolves, safe battery test solutions are critical. That’s where Associated Environmental Systems (AES) comes to the forefront. We work alongside companies to provide an all-in-one solution that can best test their groundbreaking products that will change the world. As your company prepares for the next shift in battery technology, we invite you to learn more about recent trends—particularly for consumer electronics—and discover how AES can help you pioneer the next “big thing.”
Battery Test Hazards in the Consumer Electronics Industry
While batteries pave the way for advancements in our world, there are risks with testing batteries. Even though a laptop or smartphone may seem harmless from the outside, the battery inside contains a strong concentration of energy that could create a serious safety hazard to anyone vulnerable to its side effects. Under certain conditions, if a battery isn’t reliable, it can explode, release heat, or even leak battery acid. Though these circumstances aren’t common, they can be highly prevented with thorough testing. Testing provides confidence to companies and consumers alike, giving them the security that they can use a laptop to work or allow their child to play on a tablet.
The Future Is Here: Battery Industry Developments
Hazards associated with batteries are a driving factor for evolution. While battery technology has advanced incredibly, there is room for growth. As innovations for consumer electronics come to the surface, AES will adapt to the tide.
Different Types of Batteries
The invention of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries has created ripples of impact. Without them, remote work via laptops and smartphones would not be possible. They’ve changed our idea of entertainment and continue to serve a life-saving purpose. As technology advances, their lightweight and rechargeable features will continue to make them ideal for portable consumer devices and even EVs.
This new battery type has answered the call for batteries to have a longer lifetime, be less flammable, and contain more energy stored per volume/weight. Solid-state batteries use a solid electrolyte, instead of relying on a liquid or gel electrolyte. With the potential to pack more power with the same size battery and faster, they could be used in consumer electronics, such as smartphones, pacemakers, and smartwatches.
Similar to lithium-ion batteries, these batteries don’t contain cobalt—typically used to stabilize the cathode in a lithium-ion battery. Cobalt can be incredibly expensive, so this new type of battery could save money for businesses. It has also been proven to be very efficient, making it a desired option for consumer electronics and EVs.
Free of nickel and cobalt, LFPs are a promising alternative for consumer electronics and the growing number of EVs. While LFPs use lithium, they also use iron, instead of nickel and cobalt, which can take time to mine. Known for their stability, LFPs require fewer protections and can be charged more times, expanding their lifecycle.
Get Ready for Change With AES
As technological advancements unfold, the need for battery test chambers is higher than ever before. New batteries must be tested for reliability and longevity before going to market. Our battery test chambers are designed to assess your products under a wide range of temperatures, temperature fluctuations and extremes, and humidity rates. AES chambers can catch any performance fault, addressing product defects before mass production. Catching these issues beforehand can save industries considerable time, money, and resources.
AES also offers battery fixtures that work in tandem with our chambers to limit waste, maximize efficiency, and safely allow users to swap battery cells without interfering with testing results. Our ATP fixtures can accommodate the following:
- ATPPRIME: ATPPRIME allows for up to 20 amps, enabling a higher channel density at lower amp hour testing.
- ATPHEAVY: ATPHEAVY allows for testing of up to 1000 amps.
- Adaptable: ATP Adaptable series provides flexible services. Whether battery formats or testing requirements change, AES can accommodate specific testing needs.
Share With Us Your Vision
What’s your next idea for battery technology? Connect with our team today to request a quote. A member of our team is readily available to discuss the best option that fits your needs. Whether you’re looking for a benchtop battery test chamber or looking for a new design, AES will create a plan. The future of batteries is bright.
