1. What is Peukert's Law Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates battery discharge time considering the non-linear relationship between discharge current and battery capacity.

Purpose: It helps determine actual battery runtime under different load conditions, especially important for lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses Peukert's Law formula:

Where:

• \( T \) — Discharge time (hours)
• \( C \) — Battery capacity (Ampere-hours)
• \( I \) — Discharge current (Amperes)
• \( k \) — Peukert's exponent (dimensionless, battery-specific)

Explanation: Higher discharge currents reduce effective battery capacity. Peukert's exponent accounts for this non-linear effect.

3. Importance of Peukert's Law

Details: Accurate discharge time estimation is crucial for battery sizing in applications like solar systems, EVs, and backup power.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter battery capacity in Ah, discharge current in A, and Peukert's exponent (default 1.3 for lead-acid). All values must be > 0, exponent between 1-2.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is Peukert's exponent?
A: A battery-specific constant (typically 1.1-1.3 for lithium, 1.2-1.6 for lead-acid) that quantifies capacity reduction at higher currents.

Q2: How do I find my battery's Peukert exponent?
A: Check manufacturer specs or calculate from two discharge tests at different currents.

Q3: Does this apply to all battery types?
A: Most applicable to lead-acid, less to lithium (lower exponent), not for NiMH/NiCd.

Q4: Why is actual runtime less than C/I?
A: Higher currents cause energy loss as heat and incomplete chemical reactions.

Q5: How does temperature affect results?
A: Cold temperatures effectively increase the exponent, reducing capacity further.