The Tenergy 14500 Li-Ion Battery 3.7V 800mAh is a rechargeable power source optimized for high-drain devices like flashlights, laser pointers, and small electronics. Its lithium-ion chemistry provides stable voltage output, 500+ charge cycles, and over-discharge protection. At 800mAh, it balances capacity with compact sizing (34.2mm height, 14mm diameter), making it interchangeable with AA batteries in select devices.
How to Prevent Lithium-Ion Battery Fires and Explosions
How Does the Tenergy 14500 Compare to Standard Alkaline Batteries?
Unlike disposable alkaline batteries, the Tenergy 14500 delivers 3.7V versus 1.5V, requiring voltage verification in devices. Its 800mAh capacity equates to 2.96Wh energy storage—surpassing alkaline AA’s 1.87Wh (at 1.5V). Rechargeability reduces long-term costs, though initial investment is higher. Voltage stability during discharge prevents the “voltage sag” common in alkalines under load.
| Feature | Tenergy 14500 | Alkaline AA |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 3.7V | 1.5V |
| Energy Capacity | 2.96Wh | 1.87Wh |
| Cycle Life | 500+ charges | Single-use |
What Safety Mechanisms Protect This Battery?
Tenergy integrates three safeguards: 1) CID (Current Interrupt Device) halts current during pressure spikes; 2) PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) resettable fuse prevents thermal runaway above 85°C; 3) Sealed steel casing resists physical deformation. These meet UN38.3 and IEC62133 standards, mitigating risks of leakage, explosion, or thermal events when used within -10°C to 60°C parameters.
The CID mechanism acts as a pressure-sensitive circuit breaker, permanently disabling the cell if internal pressure exceeds 1,034 kPa (150 psi). This typically occurs during severe overcharging or physical damage. The PTC fuse provides temporary protection by increasing resistance when temperatures surpass safe limits, automatically resetting once the cell cools below 70°C. Third-party testing shows these protections activate in under 2 seconds during short-circuit scenarios.
Which Chargers Optimize Performance for 14500 Cells?
Use smart chargers with CC/CV (Constant Current/Constant Voltage) protocols like the Tenergy TN140U. Key features: 4.2V ±1% cutoff voltage, 500mA charge rate (1C for 800mAh cell), reverse polarity detection. Avoid “dumb” chargers lacking voltage regulation—overcharging beyond 4.25V accelerates cathode degradation, reducing cycle life below rated 500 charges.
Advanced chargers like the Xtar VC2SL offer adjustable current settings, enabling 0.5C charging (400mA) for reduced heat generation. Chargers with LCD displays provide real-time voltage monitoring, helping users identify cells dropping below 80% capacity. For optimal performance, pair with chargers featuring independent charging channels – this prevents cross-circuit interference when charging multiple batteries simultaneously.
“The Tenergy 14500 fills a critical gap in compact power solutions. Its 800mAh rating pushes the envelope for lithium-ion in AA-sized formats—most competitors cap at 750mAh. The proprietary layered cathode design reduces internal resistance, which we’ve measured at 45mΩ versus industry-average 60mΩ. This makes it particularly effective in applications requiring brief high-current bursts.”
– Senior Power Systems Engineer, Battery Tech Consortium
FAQ
- Can I use this battery in a AA slot?
- Only if the device accepts 3.7V input. Physical fit is identical to AA, but voltage is 2.46x higher. Never substitute in devices specifying 1.5V without manufacturer approval—risk of circuit damage exists.
- How long does a full charge last?
- At 800mAh, a 100mA drain device runs ≈8 hours. High-drain applications (500mA) provide ≈1.6 hours. Actual runtime depends on cutoff voltage—devices stopping at 3V extract 92% capacity versus 2.5V cutoff (98%).
- Is storage charging necessary?
- For idle periods over 2 months, store at 3.7V (40-60% charge). Full charge storage accelerates capacity loss—tests show 25°C storage at 4.2V loses 20% capacity/year versus 5% at 3.7V. Use a smart charger’s “storage mode” if available.