How to read Discharge Curves

The concept of discharge curves represents how the voltage of a battery changes over time as it discharges its stored energy. It is a graphical representation of the relationship between the battery’s capacity (in ampere-hours) and its voltage output during the discharge process.

In batteries with a flatter discharge curve, the voltage drops gradually and more evenly as the battery discharges. This results in a more consistent voltage supply to the device, such as an LED light, throughout its usage. As a consequence, the LED light will maintain a relatively stable brightness for a longer duration as the battery depletes.

On the other hand, batteries with steeper discharge curves experience a rapid drop in voltage as they discharge. This leads to a noticeable decrease in the brightness of the LED light as the battery’s charge diminishes.

In the above example, when comparing the BP2607 & BP2544, if the devices cut-off voltage was 11Volts, the BP2607 would cut out at 200 Minutes compared to 160 Minutes for the BP2544.

Choosing a battery with a flatter discharge curve is advantageous for voltage critical applications. In LED lighting, it ensures that the LED light remains brighter for an extended period, providing a more predictable and satisfactory user experience.

Discharge Curves & Cut-Off Voltage

In addition to considering the discharge curve when choosing a battery for devices like LED lights, it’s essential to be mindful of the equipment’s operational cut-off voltages. Many devices, including LED lights, have specific voltage requirements below which they may no longer function correctly or may automatically shut down to protect sensitive components. When using a battery with a steeper discharge curve, where the voltage drops more rapidly during discharge, there is a higher likelihood of reaching these operational cut-off voltages sooner.

Ultimately, understanding discharge curves helps users select batteries that align with the specific requirements of their devices, ensuring optimal performance and longer-lasting usage. Whether it’s powering LED lights, electronic gadgets, or other battery-dependent equipment, the discharge curve plays a crucial role in determining the device’s overall performance throughout its battery life.