Bought DealExtreme "WF" batteries, odd voltages, what do I do?

[ImGeo]

OK... so went the cheap way despite all precautions and warnings, and bought CR123 batteries "WF" branded from DealExtreme.

While I wanted to test voltages for my voltmeter, I grabbed two batteries, and realized that one read 3.2 and the other 2.8 - these were new batteries that have not yet been used. Fearful, I ripped open the shrinkwrap other packof 4 batteries. Testing the voltages, they read: 2.2, 3.3, 3.1, 3.1 volts.

This is clearly... not good. I don't have single cr123 lights, and they all run in pairs (P3D, Inova X0)

What should I do? I don't want any explosions... but don't really want to have to pay premium prices for batteries.

 

[Black Rose]

Those cells should really be labelled WTF!!

With 2xCR123A lights, you either need to get quality cells (order online for lower costs) or find a rechargeable (16340 or 17670) solution that works for the lights you have.

 

[csshih]

for 2 cell lights, I wouldn't even think of going the cheap way... very easy to have an exploding light on your hands.

not much you can do about expensive batteries... maybe go rechargeable?

 

[Illum]

there is already an explosion thread using WF batteries...
While I cannot recall the thread link I do remember those batteries went off while the light was off:shrug:

 

[kramer5150]

Tough call...

I have not seen any reports of cell failure in low-current applications, furthermore lights like the Inova X5 are routinely used by other members as vampires. So I think you are at "low risk" using the 3+V cells in this scenario with this particular light.

On the other hand there are reports of other member cells exploding with the light OFF, and not drawing current at all.

SO.. my safe answer is to just dump em' or get yourself a 1xcell light and make better use of them

One things for sure (at least in my mind) The 2.2 and 2.8 should be dumped.

 

[lebox97]

imgeo, you also need to add a ZTS or similar cell tester for matching cells (capacity, not just voltage) for multi-cell use, otherwise .

you don't have to go most expensive, but at least go most reliable...
trying to scrimp on money now is going to cost you a lot more over the long run vs using quality reliable products...

for 2 cell lights, I wouldn't even think of going the cheap way... very easy to have an exploding light on your hands.

not much you can do about expensive batteries... maybe go rechargeable?

 

[tabetha]

What make of RCR123 would you recommend ?
I have some cheapo unbranded ones from begay, and some branded as WAMA!!
Would I be better off dumping these, I don't mind as safety is an issue, als does that go for the cheapo unbranded 18650 I have, don't even know if protected or not just marked with spec and HL.
Thanks
tabetha

 

[linterno]

When I bought my Solarforce L2 the included Solarforce 18650 Protected battery (yes, it was a protected battery because I paid the difference in price) was 2.8 volts. I charged it without any issue and it is working fine so far with DX MC-E drop-in.

Most of the unprotected batteries I currently use are Panasonic 1800mAh removed from a DELL laptop battery. When removed from the pack they where 2.7 volts. I charged them and so far so good.

Or I am a very lucky man or there is not necessarily a risk with that discharge level. Don't misunderstand me, I am not saying that 2.8 or 2.2 volts is safe to charge.

I you want to be absolutely safe then throw them away. If you want to assume the risk then you should do the charge in a fire safe place.

 

[lolzertank]

Those cells should really be labelled WTF!!

:lolsign: That just brightened my day by a couple thousand lumens.

For cells as explosive as lithium and li ion, I would certainly spend more money to avoid burning my house down. House > $20.

 

[xenonk]

I've used those WF cells in single-cell lights, but never multi-cell. I never bothered to test them, but given their sketchy origin I simply didn't trust that they had sufficient QA to be used in a potentially explosive configuration.