[Elecraft] [KX3] Lithium Battery Video

[David Gilbert]

I agree with all of that.  The ability to store lots of energy in a very 
small form factor and deliver it quickly as needed (low internal 
resistance) has been and will continue to be an enabler for many of the 
electronic marvels we pursue (including portable electronics, electric 
cars, and off-grid homes).  Unfortunately, that is also precisely the 
physical definition of a bomb, and the key to being able to use such 
capabilities safely is predicated on proper design (quasi-intelligent 
current limiters) and effective quality control (elimination of 
variables at all levels).  It's most likely going to continue to be a 
rocky road, and personally I'm expecting some spectacular failures along 
the way.

73,
Dave   AB7E



On 2/7/2017 6:08 PM, Fred Jensen wrote:
> Yes, saw it too, really good reporting.  There was a very good [in the 
> "real engineering facts" department] article some time ago, prior to 
> the Samsung debacle.  It was aimed primarily at electric vehicle 
> batteries, and touched a bit on large lithium-chemistry batteries for 
> the home.  Tesla's "Gigafactory" making PowerWalls and vehicle 
> batteries is about 45 km from us.
>
> It might have been in Scientific American, sadly I don't remember.  
> But I do remember:
>
> The energy density of lithium-chemistry batteries is extraordinarily 
> high, and they have an almost infinitesimal internal resistance.  
> Consequently, anything that shorts even part of the battery is going 
> to result in extreme currents and resulting electrical and pyrotechnic 
> displays.
>
> The "secret" to safe lithium-chemistry batteries appears to be really 
> good engineering and manufacturing quality control.  I've had one 
> LiPoly RC battery I used with my KX1 go up in flames while I was 
> calling CQ in the Spartan Sprint.  Fortunately, I was outside on the 
> deck, it was externally connected via a pigtail, and I was able to 
> fling it over the deck railing onto the gravel driveway.  It's 
> provenance was difficult to determine, but I suspect somewhere way way 
> to the west of NV.
>
> If a lithium-chemistry battery ignites, water is not likely to put the 
> fire out.  Cheap isn't always a good deal, and I'd never use one 
> internal to the radio.
>
> 73,
>
> Fred ["Skip"] K6DGW
> Sparks NV DM09dn
> Washoe County