What is a lipo Battery

On: 20 April 2023 

What is a Lipo Battey? 

A LiPo battery, short for Lithium Polymer battery, is a type of rechargeable battery that is commonly used in a variety of electronic devices, such as drones, remote-controlled cars, and smartphones. LiPo batteries are known for their high energy density, lightweight, and ability to deliver high discharge rates.

Why choose a lipo Battery over other option

LiPo batteries are known for producing more power compared to other types of batteries due to their higher energy density and ability to deliver high discharge rates.

The energy density of a battery refers to the amount of energy that can be stored per unit of volume or weight. LiPo batteries have a higher energy density compared to other types of rechargeable batteries, such as NiMH and lead-acid batteries. This means that they can store more energy in a smaller and lighter package, making them an attractive option for applications where weight and space are critical factors.

LiPo batteries are also capable of delivering high discharge rates, which refers to the rate at which energy can be drawn from the battery. This is important for applications that require high power output, such as RC cars, drones, and high-performance electric vehicles. LiPo batteries can deliver high discharge rates without experiencing significant voltage drops or overheating, making them a popular choice for these types of applications.

Overall, LiPo batteries are popular because of their high energy density, high discharge rates, and relatively light weight, which make them ideal for a variety of applications that require high power output and energy efficiency.

 

Charging your Lipo battery

When it comes to charging a LiPo battery, it is important to follow some safety guidelines to prevent any accidents, such as fires or explosions. Here are some best practices for charging a LiPo battery:

1. Use a charger designed for LiPo batteries: LiPo batteries require a specific charging algorithm that differs from other types of rechargeable batteries. It is essential to use a charger specifically designed for LiPo batteries to ensure safe and optimal charging. Examples below

• SKYRC SK-100155 T200 AC/DC 12A Dual output Charger Multi Chemistry Balance
• GT Power High Performance Charger C607D AC-DC 7amp 80w
• SKYRC 100081 Imax E3 2-3s LiPo Charger
• SKY RC T1000 Maestro AC/DC Charger SK-100182

 

2. Set the charger to the correct voltage and current: Before charging a LiPo battery, make sure to set the charger to the correct voltage and current rating. These ratings should match the specifications of your LiPo battery.

here's an example of the charging settings for a typical 3S (3-cell) LiPo battery using a compatible charger:

 

• Set the charger to "LiPo" mode.
• Set the number of cells to "3S"
• Set the charge current to 1C (or less)
• Set the charge voltage to 12.6V (4.2V per cell) some chargers will already be pre-programmed for this setting.
• For example, if you have a 3S LiPo battery with a capacity of 2200mAh, the maximum charge current would be 2.2A (1C) and the maximum charge voltage would be 12.6V (4.2V per cell).

 

It's important to note that overcharging a LiPo battery can be dangerous and can cause damage to the battery, so it's important to set the charger to the correct voltage and current rating and monitor the battery during charging to ensure that it doesn't overheat or overcharge.

Monitor the battery during charging: Keep an eye on the battery during charging to ensure that it does not become too hot or overcharged. If the battery feels abnormally hot, stop charging immediately and let it cool down.

3. Use a LiPo-safe bag: A LiPo-safe bag is a fire-resistant container that is designed to contain the battery in case of a malfunction or fire. It is made of materials that are designed to withstand the heat and flames that may result from a battery failure. Therefore, charging your LiPo battery inside a LiPo-safe bag provides an additional layer of protection and can help reduce the risk of injury or damage to your property.

If you choose to use a LiPo-safe bag, make sure that it is in good condition and free from any damage or tears. Also, ensure that the bag is the appropriate size for your battery to prevent over-stretching or over-tightening, which can also cause damage to the bag.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to charge your LiPo battery inside a LiPo-safe bag is up to you. However, it's always better to act on the side of caution and take all necessary precautions to ensure the safe use and charging of your LiPo battery.

By following these best practices, you can safely and effectively charge your LiPo battery and prolong its lifespan.

Disclaimer and Indemnification

The advice in this article is suggestions from Campbelltown hobbies. The source of information was gained from experience and industry best practices. LiPo batteries have safety risks including starting fires if over-discharged or overcharged. The reader accepts all responsibility for charging and discharging his or her batteries and indemnifies Campbelltown Hobbies from any liability.