Guest Lecture: Lithium-ion Batteries for Cordless Power Tools

Dr. Dantong Qiu

Senior Engineer, Milwaukee Tool

UWM College of Engineering & Applied Science PhD alumnus

Abstract

Cordless power tools have transformed how professionals work by providing greater mobility, flexibility, and productivity. This transformation has been enabled largely by advances in lithium-ion battery technology. Using Milwaukee Tool’s cordless platforms as practical examples, this presentation will introduce how electrochemical cells are selected, configured, and integrated into battery packs to meet the demanding requirements of power tools. We will connect fundamental electrochemical concepts to real tool applications. The presentation will also explore the engineering tradeoffs among power, runtime, temperature, cycle life, weight, and cost, illustrating how cell-level performance ultimately determines the capability and reliability of a cordless tool.