FINAL DISCHARGE VOLTAGE, DEEP-DISCHARGING
Lead-acid batteries are extremely susceptible to deep-discharging, which leads to loss of
capacity and a reduction in useful life. To avoid permanent damage, these batteries must
be recharged again immediately after use. The final discharge voltage is 1.75 Volts per cell
at 20°C, and it is important never to allow it to fall below this value.
When handling lead-acid batteries certain safety measures are absolutely necessary
to avoid the risk of personal injury and property damage. When you use these batte-
ries, you are personally responsible for any problems which arise.
•
The lead-gel batteries which are in widespread use in the modelling world are usually
gastight, and therefore less hazardous than conventional lead-acid types.
•
In contrast, car batteries with fluid sulphuric acid electrolyte are extremely hazardous,
because the acid is corrosive, and the cells generate gas when overcharged.
•
Lead-acid batteries must never come into contact with open fire, as they may explo
de.
•
Never forcibly open lead-acid cells; they contain corrosive materials.
•
Never short-circuit lead-acid cells - fire hazard, possible explosion hazard.
•
If electrolyte should escape from the cell, do not allow it to touch your skin or eyes. If
this should happen despite taking normal precautions, immediately wash it off using
plenty of clean water, and seek medical attention immediately. Never place lead-acid
cells or batteries in your mouth, as they are poisonous.
•
A charged lead-acid battery is not a child's plaything. Store these batteries well out of
the reach of children.
•
Lead-acid batteries may generate hydrogen gas ("gassing") during the charge pro-
cess. For this reason good ventilation is essential. If overcharged, these batteries
generate an explosive mixture of hydrogen and oxygen. Explosion hazard.
13.4
LITHIUM (LIPO) BATTERIES
GENERAL INFORMATION
There are various basic types of Lithium battery:
1. Lithium-Ion batteries containing fluid electrolyte, with a nominal voltage of 3.6 Volts.
This is the first generation of Lithium cell, and is not often used for modelling applica-
tions. These cells cannot be charged using the Power Peak ULTIMATE 2.
2. Lithium-Ion batteries containing fluid electrolyte, with a nominal voltage of 3.7 Volts.
This is the second generation of Lithium cell, and is housed in a metal can.
3. Lithium-Ion-Polymer batteries (LiPo) containing gel-form electrolyte, with a nominal
voltage of 3.7 Volts. This is the current generation of Lithium cell, and they have also
become known as Li-po or Li-poly batteries. The gel electrolyte results in a reduced
pressure build-up in the cell during charging and discharging, for which reason a foil
housing is adequate. This cell has rapidly become very popular for model purposes
due to its low weight and high energy density.
Operating instructions
POWER PEAK ULTIMATE 2
28
No.
8470