Lithium-ion (Li-ion) and lithium polymer (LiPo) batteries have become the mainstream power source for drones due to their core advantages of high energy density and lightweight. A deep understanding of their working principles, cycle life and correct maintenance methods are essential to optimizing battery performance and extending flight time. This article will explore the concept of battery cycle, reasons for life attenuation, strategies for improving endurance, maintenance techniques and causes of bulging.
Working principle of lithium-ion batteries in drones
Drones generally use Li-ion/LiPo batteries, the core of which lies in their high specific energy (energy per unit weight/volume) and lightweight characteristics.
Working essence: Based on the reversible migration of lithium ions (Li⁺) between the positive electrode (cathode) and the negative electrode (anode).
Discharge (power supply): Li⁺ is deintercalated from the negative electrode and embedded in the positive electrode through the electrolyte, generating current to drive the drone.
Charging: An external power source drives Li⁺ to deintercalate from the positive electrode and re-embed it into the negative electrode through the electrolyte.
Performance advantages (compared with other batteries):
High energy density: small size/weight, large energy storage → extend battery life or reduce the weight of the whole machine.
Low self-discharge rate: slow power loss when idle → better charge retention ability.
Long cycle life: can withstand more effective charge and discharge times.
Stable power output: provide continuous and reliable power → support stable flight of drones.
Drone Battery Cycle Detailed Explanation
Cycle Definition: A complete battery cycle is the process in which the battery's cumulative discharge reaches 100% of its nominal capacity. This is usually completed through one or more "discharge-charge" sequences.
Key Point: Cycle ≠ Single Flight. For example:
Discharge 50% → Full → Discharge 50% → Full = Cumulative Discharge 100% = 1 Cycle.
Discharge 100% → Full = 1 Cycle.
Cycle and Capacity Fading: Each cycle results in an irreversible loss of capacity (i.e., a decrease in the maximum storable charge) of the battery. This is like the natural wear of mechanical parts and is an inherent characteristic of the lithium-ion chemical system.
Cycle Life: The life of a drone battery is measured by the maximum number of cycles it can complete before its capacity significantly decreases (usually to 70-80% of its initial capacity).
Typical Range: Most consumer drone batteries have a cycle life of between 300 and 500 times.
Influencing factors: Actual life is significantly affected by battery quality, chemical formula, usage habits (charge and discharge depth, rate, temperature), storage conditions, etc.
The core reason for the limited battery life of drones
Drone battery life is restricted by multiple factors:
High energy consumption nature:
High power consumption: The drive motor needs to continuously output high power to overcome gravity, maintain flight and run loads (camera, flight control).
Air resistance: Flight needs to continuously overcome air resistance, consuming additional energy.
Weight contradiction:
Battery deadweight burden: Increasing battery capacity usually means increasing weight, requiring more energy to drive, and diminishing marginal benefits.
Battery physical limitations:
Aging attenuation: Each charge and discharge cycle causes an irreversible decrease in capacity (cycle life 300-500 times).
High-rate discharge loss: The high discharge rate when the drone is running at high power exacerbates capacity loss and heat generation.
Cell inconsistency: The differences in cells (capacity, internal resistance, voltage) in multi-cell battery packs limit the overall available capacity.
Improper use and maintenance:
Deep discharge/overcharge: Frequent discharge to too low voltage (<3.0V/cell) or overcharge (>4.2V/cell) accelerates material aging and increases internal resistance.
Ignoring instructions: Failure to follow the manufacturer's charging, discharging and storage specifications.
Environmental challenges:
Low temperature: Significantly reduces the battery's available capacity and discharge capacity.
Strong wind/high altitude: Increases the power required to maintain flight and shortens effective flight time.
Practical strategies to extend drone flight time
To maximize endurance, systematic optimization is required:
Choose an energy-efficient power source:
Upgrade the battery: Choose a compatible higher capacity (mAh) battery (if weight permits).
Optimize propellers: Use high-efficiency or large-size blades to improve aerodynamic efficiency.
Reduce the burden of flight:
Streamline the load: Remove all non-essential accessories and equipment.
Optimize flight operations and environment:
Smooth flight: Avoid sudden acceleration/deceleration and maintain a constant speed.
Take advantage of power saving mode: Enable the drone's built-in endurance optimization settings.
Choose ideal conditions: Fly in no/light wind and mild temperatures. Preheat the battery in severe cold.
Scientific battery care:
Charge correctly:
Use a balance charger to ensure cell consistency.
Avoid fast charging to prevent accelerated aging; slow charging is preferred.
Charge promptly after discharge and avoid long-term low-voltage storage.
Avoid deep discharge: Try to keep >20% power when landing during flight.
Standard storage: When storing for a long time, keep the battery in a cool and dry place and adjust it to the recommended storage voltage (~3.8V/cell).
Follow the guidelines: Strictly follow the manufacturer's charging, discharging, storage and care instructions.
UAV lithium battery maintenance guide (extend life and ensure safety)
Follow scientific maintenance to significantly improve battery life and performance:
Regular charging:
Use the original/recommended charger.
Overcharging (more than 4.2V/cell) is strictly prohibited.
Be sure to use the balanced charging function for multi-cell batteries.
Scientific storage:
Long-term storage: Adjust the power to 40%-60% (about 3.8V/cell).
Storage environment: Cool and dry place (ideally 15°C-25°C / 59°F-77°F), avoid high temperature and direct sunlight.
Avoid deep discharge:
Try to keep >20% power for landing during flight.
It is strictly forbidden to discharge the battery to <3.0V.
Regular inspection:
Carefully check the appearance of the battery before and after flight: whether there is bulging, cracks, leakage, odor or abnormal heating.
If any abnormality is found, stop using it immediately.
Drone battery bulge: causes and emergency treatment (danger signal!)
Battery bulge is caused by internal gas production, which causes the shell to expand, indicating serious chemical degradation and a high risk of fire and explosion! Common causes:
Abuse of charging and discharging: overcharging (>4.2V/cell) or deep over-discharging (<3.0V/cell).
High temperature exposure: Use, storage in high temperature environment or charging without cooling after charging.
Physical damage: Dropping, squeezing, puncture causing internal short circuit.
Natural aging: Too many cycles and deterioration of internal materials.
Manufacturing defects: Poor battery cell or packaging process.
If bulge is found, immediate action must be taken:
Immediately deactivate and isolate: Stop charging and discharging, move the battery to a safe, fireproof, ventilated place, away from flammable materials and people.
Safe handling: Do not puncture or disassemble! Send to a professional hazardous waste recycling point for disposal in accordance with local regulations.
Battery replacement: It is strictly forbidden to continue using swollen batteries. New batteries must be replaced to protect the drone and personal safety.
As a manufacturer specializing in lithium polymer batteries, LYW focuses on innovation and continuously brings customers affordable high-quality batteries. Its products are widely used in various scenarios and have received unanimous praise from customers. If you have any needs, you can contact the online customer service or call us, we will provide you with the best service
