Cell balancing is the process of equalizing the voltage or charge level of individual cells in a battery pack to ensure uniform performance, safety, and longevity. It is typically managed by the Battery Management System (BMS) and is essential in multi-cell configurations like EVs, energy storage systems, and consumer electronics.
Why Cell Balancing Is Important:
In real-world operation, individual cells can deviate in capacity, internal resistance, and self-discharge rate due to:
Manufacturing variations
Temperature gradients
Aging rates
Uneven loads
Without balancing, weaker or stronger cells could:
Limit the usable capacity of the whole pack
Lead to overcharging or overdischarging, which accelerates degradation or creates safety risks
Cause thermal instability
