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Basic rules for using Li-Po batteries

Posted by Replacement Battery Store on Feb 26th 2019

Basic Rules For Using Li-Po Batteries

Lithium-Polymer (Li-Po) rechargeable batteries have become increasingly popular and are being used in various devices. The main advantage their overall balance of weight, cost, and capacity.

Due to the increasing use of lithium-polymer rechargeable batteries, we've decided to give you some recommendations and guidelines on how to properly use and store this type of battery.

Please be advised that if the following rules are not followed, there is a high probability of damaging both the Li-Po batteries themselves and the device.

Storage Of Li-Po Batteries

All types of rechargeable batteries have specific rules for safe storage. Here are instead rules for lithium-polymer batteries:

1. Never break, puncture, or strike the Li-Po batteries.

2. You should not touch the poles the batteries in metal objects. It will result in battery shorting and deep discharge. Always store and transport these batteries with well-insulated poles.

3. Do not store together Li-Po batteries together if their terminals are not pre-insulated. Otherwise, it is possible to touch them in each other to short-circuit and consequently a fire.

4. Do not expose lithium polymer batteries to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight. The temperatures at which this type of battery will work properly is only 39.20F and 120.20F degrees.

5. Always check the voltage of batteries that have not been used for more than 6 months.

6. Always store batteries in non-conductive, refractory containers or bags.

7.To extend the battery life, charge it for the best performance, charge it with ½ of the capacity listed on the label.

Before You Make The First Charging Of A Li-Po Rechargeable Battery:

1. Inspect the Li-Po battery and make sure there is no damage or protruding non-insulated wires that may cause a short circuit.

2. Make sure you connect the positive pole to the battery with the charger positive terminal. If you are not sure which of the leads is "+" and which "-" you can check with a multimeter.

Charging Li-Po Batteries:

Before using the charger for the first time, always read the user manual and safety instructions. In addition to charging the charger, follow the charging policies for Li-Po batteries listed below to avoid damage or injury.

1. Always use a charger designed for Li-Po rechargeable batteries.

2. Always charge the batteries away from flammable materials, liquids or surfaces.

3. Never charge the lithium polymer battery inside the device unless it is designed this way.

4. Do not charge batteries that have a very high temperature of touch. Before charging, wait for them to cool down.

5. Always use the appropriate program to charge Li-Po batteries. You can choose the right program by taking into account the number of cells that make up the main battery and the corresponding voltage indicated on the battery label.

6. Always charge the battery with a current of more than 1С (more than one time of the battery capacity), unless otherwise stated on the battery label.

7.Always check the voltage of the Li-Po batteries before charging them to make sure they are not below the minimum safe voltage. If this is the case, it means that the battery has been subject to excessive discharge or has failed and should not be charged.

8. Never recharge the battery beyond the voltage listed in its specification.

Safety Of The Li-Po Battery

If in the process of work or charging, you notice that the Li-Po battery is damaged, overheated or starts to swell, stop charging/discharging immediately. Quickly and safely remove the battery from the charger or device. Then move the battery to a safe place away from flammable materials and objects. Do not attempt to use, charge or transport the battery. If you do not comply with these recommendations, this may result in damage to the battery, personal property, or serious injury. The damaged or swollen battery can be extremely unstable and very hot. Do not touch the batteries until they cool down.

Li-Po batteries, as well as all other batteries and accumulators, are considered hazardous waste and not disposed of with the household battery. Dispose of unsuitable batteries only at designated locations in your settlement.

Specialized battery disposal cans can be found in various retail outlets - supermarkets, convenience stores, specialized battery stores and etc.

In the event of a fire caused by improper use or charging of lithium-polymer batteries and in the case of a defective or damaged battery, use only a powder fire extinguisher.

Dilution Of Li-Po Batteries:

1. Never discharge the Li-Po battery with a current greater than the specified in the battery specification. There are different types of Li-Po batteries that are designed for different uses and devices.

2. Do not allow battery temperature to rise above the battery manufacturer's manual.

3. Never dilute the Li-Po battery to a voltage that is lower than the lowest level. Otherwise, this may result in poor performance or possible fire while the battery is charging.