How to Charge a LiPo at 3C
Lithium polymer (LiPo) cells are increasingly used in battery packs and are replacing nickel-based cells. The reason is simple: they are lightweight, durable and produce three times the energy of a nickel-based cell. However, LiPo batteries can be volatile, so charging them correctly is extremely important. LiPo batteries use a unique discharge rate system code referred to as the "C" rating. The "C" rating marked on a LiPo battery determines the rate at which it can be safely discharged. For example, 1C is the standard discharge rate, whereas 20C indicates a battery is capable of discharging at 20 times the standard rate. The "C" rating is also used to define a charge rate.
Instructions
-
-
1
Check the label on your LiPo battery to determine its maximum discharge rate. It varies from 1C up to 30C, or sometimes more. The higher the discharge rate the more expensive the battery and the faster you can safely charge the battery. The battery label needs to state 20C if you intend to charge your battery at 2C. If it's less than 20C, you may damage your battery and, more importantly, it could be dangerous.
-
2
Set your LiPo charger to charge at 2C. You need to have a variable LiPo rate charger, otherwise it charges at the standard rate of 1C. If the charger doesn't indicate a "C" charge rate you need to work out the milliamp hour (mAh) rate. A single LiPo cell produces 1,320 mAh, which equals 1C; so to charge your battery at 2C, set your charger to 1,640 mAh.
-
-
3
Plug in your charger and connect it to the LiPo battery. Turn on the charger. Let the battery charge, but don't leave it unattended. A LiPo battery charger contains power breakers to ensure the battery doesn't overcharge; however, you should check the heat from the battery every 15 minutes or so. If you find it's hot (warm is fine) to the touch, turn off the charger immediately and let the battery cool completely.
-
4
Turn off the charger and remove the battery once the charger indicates the battery is full. Charging your LiPo battery at 2C halves the charge time.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Always read the manufacturer's instructions before charging LiPo batteries.
References
- Photo Credit battery lightning image by PinkShot from Fotolia.com
