When to remove a battery from flight circulation
Battery Degradation
Lithium-ion polymer (LiPo) batteries, like any other battery, experience wear and tear over time. As they undergo charge and discharge cycles, the capacity of LiPo batteries gradually decreases. This decrease in capacity is known as battery degradation. Factors such as high temperatures, overcharging, and over discharging can accelerate the wear and tear process, leading to a shorter overall lifespan for the battery. It is important to properly manage and maintain LiPo batteries to maximize their longevity and performance
Battery Disqualification
Inspect your batteries for wear and/or degradation frequently. If your batteries show any of the signs listed below, disqualify them from your battery rotation and dispose of them properly. Replacement or additional batteries can be ordered through SmartDrone
Total battery voltage is less than 19V The battery has been over discharged and is no longer usable |
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Single cell voltage is less than 3.3V (press the mode button on the battery checker to toggle between reading modes) |
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Max cell voltage - Min cell voltage is greater than 0.100V (press the mode button on the battery checker to toggle between reading modes) |
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Charge time takes longer than 1 hour This means the internal resistance in one or more of the 6 cells is high, causing balancing issues |
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Cell encasement is leaking inner chemicals | ![]() |
Plastic wrapper is cracked |
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Melted or charred plug Due to using batteries with uneven voltages |
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Width of cell stack is greater than 70mm Due to from degradation of internal chemicals |
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Disconnected balance cable wire | ![]() |