Batteries featuring LiFePO4 prismatic cells are in high demand these days thanks to some of the unique advantages these cells offer compared to cylindrical cells. When choosing LiFePO4 prismatic cells, some may need clarification when they find there is more than one quality level of these batteries.

Grade A and Grade B LiFePO4 prismatic cells, for example, may lead to several questions: how do they differ? Is Grade B necessarily worse than Grade A? In what way? Does Grade A refer to flawless prismatic cells, and is grade B the synonym for cosmetic or performance defects?

Grade A and Grade B LiFePO4 prismatic cells represent different quality control levels during the manufacturing process, which may result in gaps between performance, characteristics, and specifications. Grade A cells are typically manufactured to a higher level of quality control and have a lower defect rate than Grade B cells.

Consequently, Grade A cells tend to be more reliable, have a longer lifespan and are generally more expensive than Grade B cells.

Differences Between Grade A and Grade B LiFePO4 Prismatic Cells

The following are the key aspects that highlight the differences between Grade A and Grade B LiFePO4 prismatic cells:

Automation

In terms of automation and performance, both Grade A and Grade B are automatically manufactured. The difference is that Grade B LiFePO4 prismatic cells have minimum expectations. Grade A LiFePO4 battery cells are the result of an advanced automated production process. Grade B cells don’t have this advantage. They also have a higher rate of capacity fade as compared to their Grade A counterparts.

Safety

Both Grade A and Grade B cells are considered safe, but Grade A cells are manufactured to higher safety standards. Grade B LiFePO4 prismatic cells may have a higher risk of encapsulation and thermal runaway (i.e., overheating and catching fire). They are relatively more sensitive to temperature and hence, prone to leakage when the temperature is too high. So, in terms of safety, they are not reliable as Grade A cells. A Grade A battery with LiFePO4 prismatic cells, such as LF100LA 3.2v LiFePO4 Battery Cell, minimize these safety concerns.

Long Lifespan

LiFePO4 prismatic cells are the highest-quality products in the industry. They undergo more rigorous quality control checks to make sure they meet all quality standards and are made with the best materials. So, it is not surprising to know that they have a much longer lifespan as compared to Grade B LiFePO4 prismatic cell batteries.

This helps to reduce the likelihood of defects and improves the overall quality of the cells, which can result in a longer lifespan.

Stability

With their consistent manufacturing quality, better temperature management, higher safety standards, and reduced risk of internal damage, Grade A LiFePO4 prismatic cells are naturally more stable. For example, EVE Lifepo4 100Ah Lifepo4 Grade A Battery 100Ah Cell provides the same amount of energy capacity or storage, charge at the same rate, self-discharge at the same rate, and stay at the same voltage throughout its lifespan. Grade B LiFePO4 prismatic cells, however, are considered less stable as they typically don’t have a uniform energy capacity and have slight variations in cell voltage.

Environmentally Friendly

Since Grade A LifePO4 prismatic cells feature top-notch specifications and characteristics, they last much longer and don’t require a replacement very often. LF100LA Prismatic Cells can last many years and provide consistent performance. Grade B LiFePO4 prismatic cells, on the other hand, may contain performance and stability defects hence, requiring replacements more often which makes them less environmentally friendly.

Customization And Good After-Sales Services

Because of their flawless design, Grade A LiFePO4 prismatic cells support customization and feature longer warranty periods. You can also expect better after-sales services for these products. A prime example is the LF100LA Prismatic Cells which come with an extended warranty period and excellent aftersales support. Grade B LiFePO4 prismatic cells don’t have these advantages.

Conclusion

An important thing to note about the LifePO4 prismatic cell grading system is that there is no strict regulation or standard for Grade A and Grade B. Different manufacturers may use different grading criteria. Overall, when choosing a battery, it is important to make sure that you are buying a quality product that will meet all your expectations, and EVE is a reliable choice.

Established in 2001, EVE is committed to providing reliable and innovative battery storage solutions for various applications. We have manufactured and supplied energy storage products based on cutting-edge technologies that minimize environmental impact and provide superior performance, aiming at delivering a strong combination of long life, excellent safety, and high power.

If you want to know more about LFP cells, read 5 must-know facts to learn more.