Nitecore i2 Multi Chemistry Intelligent Battery Charger

Lithium Polymer (LiPo) Battery Safety Guidelines

PLEASE READ AND KEEP FOR REFERENCE

Lithium Polymer (LiPo) batteries can be extremely dangerous if not handled correctly. A lithium fire can reach extremely high temperatures, is unpredictable and difficult to extinguish.

A standard four-cell 1500mAh LiPo battery at full charge stores a massive 25Wh (watt hours) of energy!

Please take these risks seriously. We advise following the guidelines below to safely use and maintain your LiPo batteries.

Disclaimer

This information sheet is provided to help our customers understand LiPo battery safety. However, you use this information at your own risk. Following good practices will also help to ensure the longevity of your battery packs.

By purchasing LiPo batteries or charging equipment from our store, you accept all risks related to their use. If you disagree, please contact us immediately to arrange a return before using the product.

1. Charging Safety

• Use a proper charger: Always charge LiPo batteries with a LiPo-compatible charger.
• Set the correct parameters: Charge at the recommended voltage and current settings specified by the manufacturer. Many fires occur due to incorrect charge settings. In most cases, the safest charge rate is 1C.
• Double-check connections: Ensure that charging leads are connected correctly. Reverse charging can lead to cell damage or a fire.
• Charge in a safe environment: Charge batteries on a non-flammable surface, in a fireproof container, and away from flammable materials.
• Monitor while charging: Never leave charging batteries unattended. Stop charging immediately if the battery becomes hot or swollen.
• Avoid overcharging: Never exceed 4.2V per cell (4.35V for LiHV Lithium-ion Polymer High-Voltage batteries).

2. Storage Safety

• Storage voltage: For long-term storage, maintain a ‘storage charge’ voltage of 3.7V to 3.85V per cell.
• Store in a cool, dry place: Always store your LiPo pack in a safe and non-flammable container away from flammable objects. A LiPo sack or metal/ceramic storage container is best. Avoid direct sunlight or high temperatures (above 60°C/140°F). The ideal storage temperature is 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F).
• Avoid full discharge: Never store batteries at full charge or with a low voltage (below 3.3V per cell).

3. Handling and Usage

• Inspect regularly: Check batteries for any damage, swelling, or leaks before use.
• Avoid physical damage: Protect batteries from impacts, punctures, and exposure to moisture or water.
• Never short-circuit: Avoid contact between battery terminals. Do not store or transport batteries where they can come into contact with sharp or conductive materials (e.g., metal objects).
• Use within limits: Stay within the manufacturer’s recommended discharge rate and capacity ratings for safe operation.
• Monitor during use: Use voltage alarms or onboard monitoring to prevent over-discharging (below 3.3V per cell).
• Crashes: If a battery is damaged in a crash or shows changes in appearance (including swelling or gassing), move it to a safe place to observe, and discard it. Never attempt to charge a battery with physical damage, regardless of how minor the damage may seem.

4. Disposal

• Lifespan: Rechargeable LiPo batteries do not last forever. Batteries that have lost 20% of their initial capacity should be removed from service and disposed of.
• Dispose properly: Never throw LiPo batteries in the general waste. Dispose of them at certified recycling centres.
• Prepare for disposal: Fully discharge batteries before disposal and tape the terminals to prevent short circuits.

5. In Case of Fire

• Fire containment: If a LiPo battery catches fire, use a Class D fire extinguisher or sand to smother the fire. Avoid inhaling fumes and vacate the area immediately.