SilverFox
Flashaholic
Hello John,
The cells used for testing were NiMh.
In general heat ages the chemicals in cells. Using a faster charge termination voltage at somewhere around 90% of full charge reduces heat. Following this with a measured trickle charge also keeps the heat in check and allows you to end up with cells at full capacity with minimal damage from the charging process. The trade off is that it takes a little longer to charge. The cells can last longer depending on how they are used. Charging is only part of the equation.
Keep in mind there is a vast difference between NiMh and Li-Ion chemistry. For example many Radio Controlled people found they would get better performance from their NiMh battery packs if they stored them discharged and then shorted by connecting the + and - together. The next weekend of racing would involve removing the short and charging the pack back up for use. You would never do this with a Li-Ion pack.
The introduction of low self discharge cells like Eneloop has changed the approach to charging. I think we are still seeing some of the differences come to light even after years of testing these cells.
My path involves reviewing the application and finding cells that will provide the power needed. I then look for quality cells. Finally I charge them in a way that balances my time involved with charging with the cells performance over the longer term.
Tom
The cells used for testing were NiMh.
In general heat ages the chemicals in cells. Using a faster charge termination voltage at somewhere around 90% of full charge reduces heat. Following this with a measured trickle charge also keeps the heat in check and allows you to end up with cells at full capacity with minimal damage from the charging process. The trade off is that it takes a little longer to charge. The cells can last longer depending on how they are used. Charging is only part of the equation.
Keep in mind there is a vast difference between NiMh and Li-Ion chemistry. For example many Radio Controlled people found they would get better performance from their NiMh battery packs if they stored them discharged and then shorted by connecting the + and - together. The next weekend of racing would involve removing the short and charging the pack back up for use. You would never do this with a Li-Ion pack.
The introduction of low self discharge cells like Eneloop has changed the approach to charging. I think we are still seeing some of the differences come to light even after years of testing these cells.
My path involves reviewing the application and finding cells that will provide the power needed. I then look for quality cells. Finally I charge them in a way that balances my time involved with charging with the cells performance over the longer term.
Tom