3
Discharging LiPo Batteries
WARNING!!
NEVER allow Onyx LiPo cells to discharge
below 2.5V per cell as permanent cell damage could
result. This can also result in some chargers not
recognizing the battery upon recharge, preventing the battery
from being charged again. ALWAYS make sure batteries are
physically and electrically undamaged before charge or discharge.
1. When powering an ESC:
a. Do NOT use an ESC unless it’s LiPo compatible.
b. Follow the ESC’s instructions carefully to set the proper low
voltage cutoff point for the battery. As an extra measure of
safety and to maximize the lifespan of the Onyx battery, it’s
recommended to not allow the battery to discharge below
3.2V per cell.
c. ALWAYS disconnect LiPo batteries completely from
electronic speed controls when not in use to prevent
accidental over-discharge.
2. When using a battery discharger:
a. Choose an isolated, fi re-
proof area to discharge
the battery as explained
on page 2.
b. Choose a LiPo compat-
ible discharger which
has balancing capabili-
ties. Or, use a LiPo com-
patible discharger in
conjunction with a separate LiPo balancer.
c. Set the discharge cutoff voltage to 3.2V per cell for Onyx
LiPo batteries. NEVER discharge a LiPo to 2.5V or below at
any time as permanent failure will result.
d. Set the discharger’s output current to an appropriate value
for the battery.
e. Connect the battery’s main lead and balancing lead to the
discharger as described in the discharger’s instructions.
ALWAYS connect a charge adapter lead to the charger BEFORE
connecting the battery to the charger.
f. If possible, as another extra safety measure, use a discharger
that also includes a temperature monitoring function that can
stop charge if the battery exceeds a specifi ed temperature.
Set the discharger’s maximum temperature to 115°F (46°C).
g. NEVER leave the room where the battery is being discharged.
WARNING!!
NEVER enter a discharge cutoff voltage
value into the discharger or ESC that is lower than
the value specifi ed for the battery! Failure to follow
this warning can cause permanent damage to the battery and
might result in a FIRE when attempting to recharge the battery
afterwards!!! Do not discharge LiPo batteries at currents that
exceed the maximum rating of the pack, as overheating could
occur. Do not allow a LiPo to exceed 140°F (60°C) during discharge.
Batteries Involved in a Crash
Carefully inspect a LiPo battery which has been involved in a crash
to determine that no physical damage has occurred. Look for even
the smallest of cracks, splits, punctures, or damage to the wiring
and connectors. Failure to do so could result in a battery failing
at some point afterward, resulting in a total loss of power in the
battery or even a FIRE. It’s possible that sometime after removing
it from a crash a LiPo battery might begin to smolder, emit smoke
and catch fi re even after 30 minutes or an hour. Remove the LiPo
battery from the crashed model but DO NOT immediately place
it in a model, full size automobile, pocket, pit bag, etc. Place the
battery in a fi reproof location instead, for up to 24 hours if possible,
and observe it for safety reasons.
CAUTION:
Cells may be hot! Refer to the following section for
important handling and fi rst aid instructions.
Handling & First Aid Instructions
■
NEVER
put loose cells or packs in the pocket of any
clothing!
■
NEVER
allow LiPo cells to come in contact with
moisture or water at any time.
■
NEVER
store batteries near an open fl ame or heater.
■
NEVER
assemble LiPo cells or pre-assembled packs together
with other LiPo cells/packs. Only a qualifi ed battery assembler
should assemble or modify LiPo battery packs.
■
NEVER
allow LiPo cells to become punctured, especially by
metallic objects such as screwdrivers, T-pins, or hobby knives.
■
DO NOT
allow the battery’s internal electrolyte to get in the
eyes or on skin. Wash aff ected areas with soap and water
immediately if they come in contact with the electrolyte.
If electrolyte makes contact with the eyes, fl ush with large
amounts of water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention
immediately! If a battery leaks electrolyte or gas vapors, do not
inhale leaked material. Leave the area and allow the batteries
to cool and the vapors to dissipate. Remove spilled liquid with
an absorbent material and dispose.
■
ALWAYS
provide adequate ventilation around LiPo batteries
during charge, discharge, and during storage. If a battery
becomes overheated, IMMEDIATELY place it in a fi re-proof
location until it cools.
■
ALWAYS
store LiPo cells/packs in a secure location away
from children.
■
ALWAYS
make sure that metallic objects, such as wristwatches,
bracelets, or rings are removed from your hands when handling
LiPo packs. Accidentally touching battery terminals to any such
objects could create a short-circuit condition and possibly
cause severe personal injury.
■
LiPo batteries are environmentally friendly. For safety
reasons, it’s best that LiPo cells be fully discharged
before disposal (however, if physically damaged it is NOT
recommended to discharge LiPo cells before disposal - see
below for details). Allow batteries to cool before proceeding
with disposal instructions.
Storage and Transportation
■
For long term storage it is recommended to charge the cells
fully, then discharge them to 50-60% of their capacity.
■
Store batteries at room temperature in a cool or shaded area,
ideally between 40-80°F.
■
Do not expose battery packs to direct sunlight for extended
Battery
Nominal
Voltage
*Minimum
Discharge
Voltage
2S
3S
4S
5S
6S
7.4 V
11.1 V
14.8 V
18.5 V
22.2 V
6.4 V
9.6 V
12.8 V
16.0 V
19.2 V
* Recommended, based on 3.2 V per cell
