How to use suspect quality CR123

[ltiu]

I have a few unknown name brand CR123 of suspect quality. I got these before I knew better. I no longer buy these. I only buy US made Duracell, Surefire, Energizer, Panasonic and Streamlight branded batteries now.

But, it is a waste to throw those suspect but still new batteries away. Is there a way I can use these and minimize dangerous risk? For example:

1) Use on one 1 cell lights only.
2) Do not drain till it is dead as a nail.
3) Use on lights that draw little power only. Not on monster lumen throwers.

Are the above good practices?

What else can I do to use up those batteries safely?

Any tips and suggestions welcome.

Thanks.

 

[LiteShow]

1) Use on one 1 cell lights only.

That's still a risk, as we have already seen cases of 1 cell lights venting in this forum using cheap primaries.

I also have some cheaper CR123A cells lying around and I will not use them in my flashlight anymore. Maybe I could use them in a non-airtight environment like an old 35mm camera? Seriously, with so many reported flashlight venting cases, I am not risking it, no matter what the odds are.

As for me, I've gone the LiFePo4 route. Due to different chemistry, no gases will be released during deep discharge unlike standard Li-ions (lithium Cobalt) or primary lithiums.

 

[SilverFox]

Hello Ltiu,

Your proposed practices look good to me, but let's expand a little on #3. I would define "little power" as a light having a runtime of a minimum of 2 hours.

I may also point out that you may want to add to #2 as well. When you notice a reduction in light output, it's time to charge the batteries.

Also, you should pay attention to how warm the batteries are getting during use. If they go from warm to hot, it's time to change them out. With lower current draws, this should not be a concern, but it is a good check to have in place.

Tom

 

[linterno]

Most CR123 lithium primaries can be drained at 500mA maximum current. If your flashlight uses more than that don't use them, there is a risk of venting.

Some days ago I read about someone who had a venting CR123 lithium primary in his Fenix P2D running on turbo mode. I guess it was because Fenix P2D drains 1 Amp in turbo mode.

 

[ltiu]

Hello Ltiu,

Your proposed practices look good to me, but let's expand a little on #3. I would define "little power" as a light having a runtime of a minimum of 2 hours.

Yes, but I was thinking more of 5 to 10 to more hours of runtime.

I may also point out that you may want to add to #2 as well. When you notice a reduction in light output, it's time to charge the batteries.

Also, you should pay attention to how warm the batteries are getting during use. If they go from warm to hot, it's time to change them out. With lower current draws, this should not be a concern, but it is a good check to have in place.

Tom

Yes, always hold/touch the aluminum battery body to detect any excessive heat buildup. Open up the light and take out the battery during use to touch the battery and feel for any exessive heat.