Written by Hello RC aficionados! Are you getting ready for your next high-octane outing with your remote-controlled car, plane, or drone? RC Battery understands how you feel. But before you unleash the beast that is your RC car, let’s talk about the battery, which is the car’s most important component.
Lithium Polymer (LiPo) batteries are the preferred option for many RC enthusiasts. They offer a fabulous ability to weight proportion, meaning longer run times and dangerous speed increases for your RC toy. However, have you ever thought about making your own LiPo battery pack?
Obviously, this is not for novices.
To make a LiPo pack, you need to know a lot about electrical safety, be good at soldering, and know what your RC car needs. However, venturing into DIY LiPo territory can be a rewarding experience for experienced RC users who desire a little customization and possibly some cost savings.
Security First
Before we get into the exciting world of building LiPo packs, let’s talk about safety first. LiPo batteries are not your typical source of power. Toxic fumes can be released, and fires, explosions, and improper handling can occur. Important safety precautions to keep in mind are:
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Always work in an area with good ventilation.
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For storage and charging, use materials that resist fire, like a Lipo bag.
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Never crush or perforate LiPo cells.
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Buy a high-quality LiPo charger and carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
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At designated recycling centres, dispose of LiPo batteries responsibly.
It is always best to stop and consult a professional or purchase a pre-built LiPo pack from a reputable supplier like RC Battery if you feel unsure at any point during the building process.
Let’s Get Building
Now that well-being is far removed, we should assemble the essential devices and materials:
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LiPo Cells: Your RC battery pack is made up of these parts. For your RC vehicle, select cells with the appropriate capacity (mAh) and discharge rate (C rating).
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Using an Iron and Solder: The majority of LiPo pack builds can be completed with a 30-watt iron.
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Wire Stripper and Cutters: For wire manipulation that is clean and precise.
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Silicone Wire: Select a wire gauge that can withstand the anticipated RC application’s current draw.
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Battery Booster: This is absolutely necessary to guarantee that all of your pack’s cells charge and discharge at the same rate.
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Connector for Main Power: The XT60 connectors are a well-liked option.
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Lead Balanced: This links the balance charger to your Lipo battery pack.
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Kapton Tape: This is for insulating against heat during soldering.
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Heat-Shrink Tubes: Gives assurance to your associations.
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Box Shaper or Utility Blade: For materials cutting.
Guide for Each Step
Prepare Your Bag
Based on the requirements of your RC vehicle, select the configuration (series or parallel) and voltage (number of cells).
Set up the Work Area
Make sure your workspace is well-ventilated, clutter-free, and clean.
Get the Cells Ready
Look for any damage or bulging in the Lipo battery cells. Never utilise harmed cells.
Soldering
Taking this step is crucial. To ensure correct polarity (red to positive, black to negative), solder the balance lead to the appropriate pads on each cell. Before applying heat shrink tubing, insulate any exposed connections with Kapton tape.
Optional Series Connection
Solder the positive terminal of one cell to the negative terminal of the next cell for a higher voltage. Repeat for as many cells as you need.
Equal Association (Discretionary)
Connect all of the positive terminals and all of the negative terminals together to increase capacity.
Connector for Main Power
Bind the fundamental power connector to the assigned wires on your pack (red to positive, dark to negative). Secure the association with heat contract tubing.
Verify Everything Again
Verify that there are no loose wires or exposed soldering points by visually inspecting all connections for proper polarity.
Charging
Use a LiPo battery balance charger to fully charge your custom-built pack before unleashing it. Always keep an eye on the charging process and follow the charger and battery pack’s specific instructions.
Following the Build
Congratulations on maintaining your LiPo creation! You have constructed your own LiPo battery pack with success. Now, let’s talk about some of the best ways to make sure it lasts and is safe:
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Break-in Period: Break-in time is often required for new LiPo batteries. Counsel your particular cell maker’s suggestions for appropriate charging and releasing cycles during this underlying stage.
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Storage: As referenced before, store your LiPo packs at around half charge in a cool, dry spot. LiPo storage bags are an excellent choice for safeguarding your batteries against short-circuiting.
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Observe During Use: When charging or discharging your LiPo batteries, always keep an eye on them. Look for any bulging, leaking, or overheating symptoms.
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Time to retire: LiPo batteries are not long-lasting. Normally, you’ll see a lessening in execution as the cells corrupt. When your LiPo pack reaches the end of its useful life, you must dispose of it. Don’t throw them in the regular trash; instead, dispose of them responsibly at designated recycling centres.
Summing Up
Although creating one’s own LiPo pack can be a satisfying and entertaining endeavour, not everyone is suitable for it. RC Battery has a wide selection of pre-built LiPo battery packs for RC enthusiasts who place a high value on ease of use and guarantee of safety.
For seamless integration with your RC vehicle, our packs are meticulously assembled with brand-name, high-quality LiPo cells and come with industry-standard connectors.
