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6
WING
SPAN
AUGUST
Battery Basics
Incorrect chargers or incorrect
voltage cut-offs were used and LiPo
packs were being discharged at rates
the packs couldn’t handle (there was
toomuch power drawn, too quickly).
As protective circuits and information
improved, LiPo batteries became a
safe and suitable source of power.
With a few simple points to follow
you can ensure the safe use of these
batteries and enjoy their advantages.
Here’s a guideline:
• Always store batteries in a fire-
safe container
• Always charge with an
appropriate charger designed for
LiPos
• Follow themanufacturer’s
instructions when charging and
discharging
• Always use the correct size pack
according to its usage
• Never overcharge
• Never over-discharge
• Don’t use a ‘puffed’ pack
• Never use a pack with visible
damage
• Never charge a pack unattended
• Never dissemble or reconfigure
damaged packs
• Most accidents involving LiPo
batteries are the result of not
following one of these points. Get
to know your charger and follow
themanufacturers’ guidelines
and they will serve you well.
some material courtesy of
Academy of Model Aeronautics
focus on
safety
PHENOMENAL TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS HAVE TAKEN PLACE IN MODEL AIRCRAFT
AND THEIR COMPONENTS IN THE LAST TEN YEARS. MUCH HAS BEEN SAID AND WRITTEN
ABOUT SAFETY, OR LACK THEREOF, WHEN USING LIPO BATTERIES. BUT, A GREAT DEAL
OF THIS CONCERN IS LEFT OVER FROM THE EARLY DEVELOPMENT OF LIPO PACKS WHEN
THERE WAS LITTLE EDUCATIONAL INFORMATION FOR USERS AND BEFORE TECHNOLOGY
HAD FURTHER ADVANCED.