GRAUPNER GmbH & Co. KG D-73230 KIRCHHEIM/TECK GERMANY
Modifications reserved. No liability for printing errors. Ident. # 0062067 4/2010
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After each session remove all the batteries from the model and store them in a
discharged state (approx. 0.9 V per cell) at a temperature of about +5° to +25°
C. They must be kept out of the reach of children.
Please don’t misunderstand the purpose of these notes. We only want to make
you aware of the many dangers and hazards which can arise if you lack knowl-
edge and experience, or work carelessly or irresponsibly. Provided that you
take reasonable care, model flying is a highly creative, instructive, enjoyable
and relaxing pastime.
Notes on the use of NiMH batteries
Application
All Graupner NiMH battery packs and single cells are designed exclusively for typical
modelling applications in model aircraft, boats and cars.
Charging
1. NiMH batteries must always be charged using a suitable standard charger or fast
charger. For more information see the main Graupner FS catalogue.
2. Before charging an NiMH pack, allow it to cool down to ambient temperature, i.e.
approx. 20º C. If necessary, use a BATTERY COOLER, Order No. 2882, to
speed up the process.
3. The battery should not be charged until just before use, as all NiMH cells have a
natural tendency to self-discharge due to their construction.
4.
Warning
:
The charge process must be supervised even if you are using a fully automatic
charger. Note the maximum permissible charge current printed on the pack or in-
dividual cells, and do not exceed that value. Excessive charge currents can
cause NiMH cells to overheat. If the battery heats up to about 50° C when on
charge, the charge current must be switched off immediately. When NiMH cells
get hot, the pressure inside the cell case rises greatly. Every NiMH cell in a pack
is fitted with a pressure valve which is designed to prevent it exploding danger-
ously in an emergency. However, the valves may be blocked or malfunction for
some other reason, which means that an explosion is always possible if the cell
overheats seriously.
5.
Warning
:
If you accidentally overcharge an NiMH pack, do not touch it! Switch off the
charge current and allow the pack to cool down naturally.
6.
Warning
:
It is essential to avoid short-circuits involving NiMH packs. The result is an ex-
tremely high rate of discharge which heats up the battery immediately, and this
can cause cells to burst in the same way as an overheated pack. The explosion
itself represents a serious risk of injury, and any corrosive electrolyte which es-
capes from the cell can cause chemical burns.
If electrolyte escapes from a cell, take great care to avoid it getting on your skin
or in your eyes. If this should happen, rinse immediately with copious quantities
of water and seek medical assistance.
