RC batteries
LiPo Batteries : Performance and Maintenance for RC Drift
Lithium-polymer batteries, also called LiPo packs, are now the only batteries used in RC Drift thanks to their compact size, light weight, and above all their high performance. Watch our video on battery use and maintenance.
What Do the Numbers on a LiPo Battery Mean ?
The numbers shown on LiPo batteries help you understand their characteristics. Here are the most important parameters of your battery :
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LiPo Battery Voltage
• Nominal Voltage : A LiPo cell has a nominal voltage of 3.7 V (or 3.8 V for HV batteries).
• Cell Configuration : For example, a 14.8 V battery has four cells connected in series (4S), because the voltages add up.
In RC Drift, only 2S batteries are used.
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Battery voltage affects the rotational speed of the electric motor, which determines the speed of your radio-controlled vehicle. For brushless motors, power is rated in kV (revolutions per minute per volt). For example, a 3,500 kV motor will spin at 3,500 rpm per volt. So, with a 2S Lipo battery, it will spin at 25,900 rpm, and with a 3S battery at 38,850 rpm, etc.
HV (High Voltage) batteries
These are the new-generation batteries that provide more power and greater capacity. You will charge your battery to 8.7 V instead of 8.4V. Ideally, you should have a LI-HV (Lipo High voltage) compatible charger, but it is not mandatory. You just will not charge them fully, but you will not damage them.
Capacity
A battery's capacity determines how long you can use it before it is discharged. It is expressed in milliamp-hours (mAh). The higher the value, the greater the car's runtime. In RC Drift, a 4000mAh battery with the electronics from the MST RTR kit allows you to drive for about 20 minutes.
Discharge Rate
The C value indicates the maximum safe continuous discharge capability of your battery. For example, with a 4000 mAh battery with a 45C discharge rate, you can discharge up to 202.5A continuously. Always choose a discharge rate well above your maximum continuous discharge.
How Do I Take Care of My LiPo Battery ?
Precautions to Take
• Dispose of any LiPo battery immediately if it has started to swell, or if it is damaged or punctured.
• Do not try to charge a damaged battery.
• Do not leave the battery in a vehicle or directly exposed to sunlight.
• If your LiPo battery catches fire, do not put it out with water ; use sand or a fire extinguisher for electrical fires instead.
Charging a LiPo Battery
• New LiPo batteries are charged to 40% of their total capacity for optimal storage.
• Do not use the fast charge function during the first charging cycles.
• Never discharge a battery below 3.2 volts per cell.
Storage and Transport of LiPo Batteries
• Store your batteries in a ventilated, cool, and dry place, at a temperature between 5°C and 27°C.
• For transport, make sure the ambient temperature is between 5°C and 50°C and that the batteries are kept out of direct sunlight.
FAQ : Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I know if my battery is damaged ?
If your battery starts to swell, leak, or shows cutouts, it is probably damaged.
2. Can I use a LiPo battery in extreme conditions ?
LiPo batteries must be used in moderate temperature conditions to ensure their safety and performance.
3. What are the advantages of HV batteries compared with standard batteries ?
HV (High Voltage) batteries offer more power and capacity, with a maximum charge of 8,7 V instead of 8,4 V.
Storage Advice
• Store your batteries in a fireproof charging bag for extra safety.