32650 question re Eagletac mx25l2

[matt4350]

I've noticed on the Eagletac website they advise not using the integrated charger on the mx25l2 to charge 2x32650 cells in the light, and that it should only be used for the Eagletac battery pack. It's stated to do otherwise may result in damage to the cells or the light. This apparently has something to do with internal resistance, voltage and capacity, with the battery pack being "balanced and matched".

I don't really understand the technical nature of the matter, as I'm simply a user and not a technically minded person. I've done a search to try and understand what might go wrong if I charged 2 separate cells in the light, but I'm afraid I can't work it out. I want to buy the light, however it appears there may be some issues getting the battery pack shipped overseas to me, and I'd have to use locally sourced 32650 cells.

What might go wrong with either the batteries or the light if I attempt to charge these "unbalanced" and "unmatched" cells with the integrated charger?

Thanks if you can help, sorry if I haven't used the correct keywords in my searches and the answer's available elsewhere.

 

[Norm]

The batteries would be charged in series, It isn't safe to charge Li-ion cells in series without balancing taps.

Norm

 

[tallyram]

You could do a search to find out how to make a balance harness and then charge with a decent hobby charger. I've seen someone on this forum that uses magnets with leads soldered to them and a few extra wires in the right places to balance however many cells he's charging in series. I think charging in parallel will not require balancing. The cells naturally equalize. Waiting for someone to confirm.

 

[matt4350]

Thank you very much for your help, I didn't know the issue might be serious. Making harnesses or the like is quite beyond me I'm afraid, so I imagine I'll just charge the 2 cells individually or in a 2 cell charger.

 

[tallyram]

If you use unprotected cells make sure to keep an eye on the cells voltage every once in a while after you use the light. If the two cells don't match very well in voltage and capacity, then you may end up over discharging one cell or over charging one cell which could result in a fire or explosion. I don't recommend charging two loose cells in the light. I'm sure you could find someone on this forum to make you a harness or something of the like for a fee. And I would also use the harness with a decent hobby charger.

 

[matt4350]

Sounds like a plan. Thanks muchly.