Oopsie! Purchased Too Long of 18350

[Orion]

I just received some batteries in the mail from Battery Junction. I needed an 18650 for my Ti Emisar. But also needed some rechargeable batteries for for a CR123 size flashlight. I was dumb and didn't realize that what I got, a Nitecore NL1816R, is WAY bigger. I do have ONE flashlight that takes a cell this size, a Jetbeam RRT01. But the battery in it is still fine.

So, do I return these, or keep them in case my existing cell for the Jetbeam dies? How long can they last in packaging, not being charged, without the chemistry failing?

 

[bluflaam777]

Depending on chemistry, easily 5-10yr shelf life. Obviously, the closer to 10 you get the less actual use you're gonna get out of them when the time does come to pull them off the shelf.

 

[bykfixer]

Keep them. A number of newer lights can fit 18mm cells now.

 

[Monocrom]

I just received some batteries in the mail from Battery Junction. I needed an 18650 for my Ti Emisar. But also needed some rechargeable batteries for for a CR123 size flashlight. I was dumb and didn't realize that what I got, a Nitecore NL1816R, is WAY bigger. I do have ONE flashlight that takes a cell this size, a Jetbeam RRT01. But the battery in it is still fine.

So, do I return these, or keep them in case my existing cell for the Jetbeam dies? How long can they last in packaging, not being charged, without the chemistry failing?

I mean if you don't have a use for them, return them and get what you want.

 

[bluflaam777]

I can't find the article now, but I was reading the white papers of a study done some ...ppl ...I think MIT or at least someone smarter than I, where they tested li-ion cells self-discharge / shelf life under different conditions and starting charge states.

Over-simplified conclusion if memory serves (It's been a couple of years since reading it, time flies) that longevity was best at a 40-75% charge, no matter if left alone or used. They found that over-discharging (40% or less) shorted cell life as well charging over 75%. When the cell was in that range it had the longest shelf life. If it was fully charged, it self-discharged faster (lasting 2-3yrs on the shelf before needing a charge)
Where the cell would last 7yrs on the shelf if it was charged at ~75%.*
And projected 20yr life with regular use if not charged fully or discharged below ~40% ish.

*Specific chemistry, temps, charge amount, size of cell etc. played their part in life span as well.

If you keep them on the shelf, check the charge when you place them there. Check them at 2-3yr intervals to keep them in that range.

 

[Orion]

I mean if you don't have a use for them, return them and get what you want.

The problem is that Battery Junction states I have to pay for shipping, and there is a 15% restocking fee. That nearly will be the price of one of the 18350 batteries.

 

[Orion]

bluflaam777, at the moment, they are in sealed blister pack, so I don't know what their current % is. Most likely, I'm just going to keep them. I may get an Emisar and have them also send a 18350 tube, then just use those.

 

[Monocrom]

The problem is that Battery Junction states I have to pay for shipping, and there is a 15% restocking fee. That nearly will be the price of one of the 18350 batteries.

Damn, sorry to hear that.
Battery Junction used to be a better place to shop at.
Until a few years ago, CPFers could also get a very useful discount code too. Unfortunate how things have changed.

 

[bluflaam777]

Orion, sux to be 'forced' to use them when you don't have the means to atm. You do have a few years to decide tho'. LOL

 

[Monocrom]

Orion, sux to be 'forced' to use them when you don't have the means to atm. You do have a few years to decide tho'. LOL

Easy enough. When the funds become available, buy a good light that uses such cells. (Yes, I've done that. Willing to bet I'm not the only one on CPF who has.)