Operating Instructions
Power Peak® C8 EQ-BID
No.
8553
19
16.
A BRIEF GUIDE TO BATTERY TYPES
When handling rechargeable batteries a number of safety measures must always be obser-
ved in order to avoid the possibility of personal injury and property damage. When you use
a rechargeable battery, you accept liability for the consequences.
16.1 NICKEL-CADMIUM
(NC)
BATTERIES
We recommend the following charge rates for NC batteries:
High-energy batteries: 1 - 2C; please observe the battery manufacturer’s stated figures.
High-current batteries: 2 - 3C, max. 5C; please check the maximum charge current figures
stated by the battery manufacturer. Check also that the connectors and charge lead are
suitable for such high currents.
16.2 NICKEL-METAL-HYDRIDE
(NIMH)
BATTERIES
We recommend the following charge rates for NiMH batteries:
High-energy batteries: 0.5 - 1C; please observe the battery manufacturer’s stated figures.
High-current batteries: usually 1C, but many cell types can be charged at 1.5 … 2C; please
check the maximum charge current figures stated by the battery manufacturer.
16.3 LEAD-ACID
(PB)
BATTERIES
• 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 explode.
• 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.
• It is essential to take into account the notes provided by the battery manufacturer regar-
ding charging and discharging.
• Lead-acid batteries may generate hydrogen gas (“gassing”) during the charge process.
For this reason good ventilation is essential
. If overcharged, these batteries gene-
rate an explosive mixture of hydrogen and oxygen.
Explosion
hazard.
