Today’s electronics, electric vehicles, and portable electronics are all powered by rechargeable lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries. As a result, cordless tools can be made lighter and easier to use, and users are able to be more productive due to longer runtimes and faster charging.
NiCad and NiMH Batteries for Cordless vacuum cleaners were replaced by lithium-ion batteries over the past two decades, which have significantly advanced battery technology. With lithium-ion batteries, one of the key advantages is their high ‘energy density’, allowing them to deliver more power and storage capacity with smaller packs. Compared to NiCad batteries, lithium-ion batteries are about 40% lighter. The battery technology used in cordless tools makes them easier to handle and reduces muscle fatigue.
Additionally, lithium-ion batteries offer greater flexibility when it comes to work. For NiCad and NiMH batteries, a complete discharge was required before recharging. When a battery is repeatedly partially discharged, it loses capacity. Lithium-ion batteries do not require users to top up their charge, so top-ups are not necessary. Lithium-ion batteries, unlike their predecessors, do not discharge when stored for extended periods – meaning that they are ready for use at any time.
By using the Makita Intelligent Charging system, lithium-ion provides significantly longer run times and also enables faster charging times. As the user will be able to work longer before changing or charging the battery, time is saved on the job site. When the battery does need to be changed, however, it will be ready for use within minutes.
In addition, Makita’s intelligent charging system enables it to provide industry-leading charging times. The Makita LXT 18-volt battery is able to be fully charged in under 22 minutes, and even a Makita 6.0Ah battery can be fully charged in only 55 minutes.
We also provide technology that allows our lithium-ion batteries and cordless tools to communicate, thereby extending their life and protecting them against damage. Makita chargers, for example, intelligently balance the charge across all cells to deliver an optimum charge every time.
Additionally, each tool is equipped with a tool/battery protection system that automatically stops the tool when the conditions are such that it may damage the machine or battery.
- If an abnormally high current is drawn by the tool, it stops automatically.
- It will stop the machine if it overheats and reaches a temperature that could damage the battery or tool.
- Over Discharge protection – If the battery capacity is too low, the tool will stop. The overdischarge of the battery prevents the cells from being damaged and shortens the lifespan of the battery.
Cordless tool users who use lithium-ion batteries benefit from their ease of handling, longer battery life, and faster, more flexible charging compared with older technologies. It will be easier, faster and safer for professionals to work if they choose tools that feature innovations to further enhance these advantages.
For more information on our lithium-ion battery technology, click here or here for our cordless tool selection.