A distribution cabinet can be compatible with multiple cylindrical battery cell models to a certain extent, but there are also some limitations.
1、 Possible compatibility scenarios
Voltage range similarity: If the nominal voltage of different cylindrical battery cell models is relatively close, and the output voltage range of the capacitor cabinet can cover the working voltage range of these battery cells, then it is possible to be compatible. For example, the output voltage of some distribution cabinets can be adjusted between 2V and 5V, which may be applicable to cylindrical cells with different nominal voltages in this range, such as common 18650 batteries (nominal voltage 3.7V), 21700 batteries (nominal voltage is usually around 3.7V), etc.
The difference in capacity is not significant: for cylindrical cells with certain differences in capacity but not particularly disparate, the capacity divider cabinet may also achieve compatibility. As long as the current setting range of the distribution cabinet can meet the charging and discharging requirements of different capacity cells. For example, the maximum charging and discharging currents of a capacity divider can be adjusted within a certain range. For smaller capacity cells, lower currents can be used for charging and discharging tests, while for larger capacity cells, the current can be appropriately increased to ensure that the capacity divider test is completed within a reasonable time.
Small size difference: If the size difference of different cylindrical battery cells is not particularly large, the fixtures or connection devices of the distribution cabinet can be adjusted to adapt to different sizes of battery cells, and then a certain degree of compatibility can also be achieved. For example, some of the fixtures in the distribution cabinet have a certain degree of elasticity and adjustability, which can hold cylindrical cells of different diameters and lengths.
2、 Existing limitations
Accuracy issue: Different models of cylindrical cells may have differences in charging and discharging characteristics, internal resistance, and other aspects. If the same distribution cabinet is used to test multiple different types of battery cells, it may affect the testing accuracy. For example, for cells with low internal resistance, the measurement system of the capacity divider may require higher accuracy to accurately measure their performance parameters; For cells with high internal resistance, a larger measurement current may be required to overcome the influence of internal resistance. If the distribution cabinet cannot adapt well to these differences, it may lead to inaccurate test results.
Fixture adaptability: Although some fixtures in the distribution cabinet can be adjusted to a certain extent, they may not be fully compatible with cylindrical cells with large size differences. For example, very small-sized cylindrical cells may not be securely fixed in fixtures designed for larger sized cells, thereby affecting the reliability of testing.
Complexity of software settings: If you want to use a capacity divider that is compatible with multiple cylindrical cell models, complex adjustments may need to be made in the software settings. Different models of battery cells may require different charging and discharging steps, cut-off voltage, current limits, and other parameters. This requires operators to have a deep understanding of the software for the container and be able to accurately set these parameters, otherwise it may lead to testing errors or equipment damage.
In summary, a split capacitor cabinet may be compatible with multiple cylindrical cell models, but it needs to be evaluated and adjusted based on specific circumstances, taking into account issues such as accuracy, fixture compatibility, and software settings. In practical applications, if frequent testing of multiple different types of cylindrical cells is required, it may be necessary to choose a distribution cabinet with higher compatibility and flexibility, or consider using multiple distribution cabinets specifically designed for different cell models.