More Proformance with Tabless

Where tabless really shines

Tabless truly shines when it comes to machines that operate under heavy loads and need to deliver consistent, high performance. Especially for demanding applications like sawing, cutting, drilling, screwing, or sanding, you’ll benefit from long runtime, high performance, and quick readiness for use. For example, cordless circular saws, cordless table saws, cordless miter saws, cordless reciprocating saws, cordless drill/drivers, cordless impact wrenches, and cordless angle grinders with Tabless technology get even more out of the FLEX 18 V system.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about FLEX tabless batteries

What is a tabless battery?

A tabless battery uses modern cell technology that allows current to flow across a larger contact surface. This shortens the current paths, reduces internal resistance, and transfers energy more efficiently. This results in significantly less heat loss under load and allows for much higher currents to flow. This supports higher power output, faster charging, shorter cooling times, significantly longer runtime under load (due to less heat loss), and a longer battery life.

Why is the larger contact area so important in tabless?

The larger contact area allows current to flow more evenly and efficiently. This reduces bottlenecks in the current flow, lowers heat generation, and supports strong power output even under high load.

What advantages does tabless technology offer?

Tabless ensures more power, shorter charging times, and lower heat generation. In professional use, this means: strong performance under load, rapid readiness for use, and a more efficient workflow.

What specific benefits does tabless offer in everyday work?

Tabless really shows its strengths in demanding applications. The batteries stay cooler, deliver strong performance, offer longer runtime, and are ready for use again faster—for greater productivity without unnecessary interruptions.

How much faster do FLEX tabless batteries charge?

When used with the new fast charger, FLEX tabless batteries charge significantly faster. Compared to the previous 21700 generation, charging times can be up to 41% faster. Thanks to lower heat generation, tabless batteries run significantly cooler and can recharge faster; after demanding use, the cooling-down time is reduced by 42%.

How does tabless affect runtime and temperature?

The more efficient cell architecture reduces heat loss and improves energy delivery. This enables up to 25% longer runtime under load and up to 42% faster cooling after use.

Which FLEX tabless batteries are available?

Tabless technology is available in the FLEX models AP 18/4.0 XT and AP 18/8.0 XT. This provides two variants for different requirements in professional use.

How do the AP 18/4.0 XT and AP 18/8.0 XT differ?

The AP 18/4.0 XT is the more compact tabless variant for strong performance with lower weight. The AP 18/8.0 XT is designed for maximum runtime and high load capacity and is particularly suitable for demanding continuous applications.

Which charger is compatible with FLEX tabless batteries?

The compatible charger is the FLEX CA2 12/18. The 12/18 V fast charger with 11.5 A maximum output is designed for fast charging times and high efficiency, helping to maximize the potential of tabless technology. The tabless batteries can be charged with any other FLEX 18V charger and even the Power Source PS2 12/18; charging times are simply longer in these cases.

What is Therma-Tech in FLEX batteries?

Therma-Tech is the patented FLEX technology for regulating battery temperature. The phase-change material used supports longer runtime and longer service life and protects the battery from overheating.

For which applications is tabless particularly worthwhile?

Tabless is worthwhile wherever high power, long runtime, and quick readiness for use are required. Machines under heavy load and demanding applications in particular benefit from the efficient energy delivery of the new battery generation.

Are tabless batteries part of the FLEX 18 V system?

Yes, tabless batteries expand the FLEX 18 V system with high-performance variants for particularly demanding applications. Tabless batteries are part of the FLEX 18 V system and can be used flexibly with compatible 18 V machines.

Are the new 18 V tabless batteries compatible with existing 18 V machines, tools, and chargers?

Yes, the interface is fully compatible with existing machines and chargers. Only the two cordless vacuum cleaners, the VCE 22 M MC 2x18.0 and VCE 22 L MC 2x18.0, do not have sufficient space for the 8.0 XT battery, and the first-generation GPS 35 18-EC cordless shears have a different coding, which means they cannot be operated with the 4.0 XT and 8.0 XT batteries.

Are the AP 18/2.5, AP 18/4.0, and AP 18/5.0 batteries with 18650 cells still relevant?

Yes, thanks to their compact design and robust performance, they are the perfect combination for a wide range of applications. If the extreme power and high currents of the tabless 8.0 XT are not required, the 5.0 Ah battery is a very powerful and long-lasting companion. For light applications, the 2.5 Ah battery offers a pleasant gain in comfort thanks to its very compact design and low weight. To this end, the AP 18/2.5, AP 18/4.0, and AP 18/5.0 have been upgraded with 18650 cells, featuring new cells for increased performance and a rubberized underside for more pleasant and comfortable operation.

*Internal test results according to FLEX Laboratory