Battery Guidezzzzzzzz - the build

[Brambles]

I have done some suggested changes. Some pedantic, some not so. Entirely up to you if you implement or not. I kind of lost the flow after I started concetrating more on actually doing the changes rather than what I was wanting to change. Rather than delete or start again I might as well post.


Do's and Don'ts
• ALWAYS AND ONLY use the charger made specifically for the battery and just because the connection fits does not mean it is compatible with your battery.
(you don't need 'ALWAYS' as ONLY implies always.)
• NEVER leave a lithium battery charging unattended or charge while sleeping (these batteries don't do not have a memory effect like NiCad batteries so just disconnect and charge them again later).
(Simplified to remove nicads as just adds more technical information not really required, and changed don't to "do not" as it is the written word)
• NEVER leave an e-cig or e-liquid where pets or young children can get to it.
• NEVER leave your battery in direct sunlight or in other hot warm locations like your car or near the cooker.
• NEVER charge with a lead, power block or charger that is damaged.
• NEVER charge near heat sources like a hob, dishwasher or strong light source.
• NEVER charge near flammable items like curtains, soft furnishing or paper.
• ALWAYS remove your battery from the charger as soon as it is charged, e.g. light turns green, and unplug the mains adapter.
• ALWAYS charge on non-flammable surface like metal, ceramic, glass, or in a LiPo safety pouch.
• ALWAYS wipe any e-liquid or dirt off your battery and charger connection before charging, an old tea towel or some kitchen roll is ideal. (will have a bit later on periodic thorough cleaning)
• ALWAYS use your battery on/off or lock function when you put it in a bag or pocket, before storing or charging and especially when small children are about.
• ALWAYS dispose of old/ or damaged batteries safely. Don't Do not bin them. Ask your local council where to take them, usually it'llit will be one of their own facilities.
• NEVER over tighten your battery to your charger or atomiser.

ALWAYS dispose of your battery if:
• It becomes unusually warm or hot, they can get warm especially when you keep them in you hand.
• It has been damaged IE i.e. dented or punctured, leaks any liquid or emits any strange odours or noise.
• It has been submerged or dropped into water, DO NOT charge the battery even if you have dried it out.
• It does not hold a charge overnight or for as long as expected normally.
• It has lost capacity.
A few minor changes suggested.

Tips
• Store your batteries in a non-conductive container at a mild temperature in a cool place away from flammable materials, ideally at around 40% to 70% charge for longer term storage.
• Keep a record of the date you obtained each battery, label them ideally, It as it will help you predict when they are coming to the end of their life.
• Unscrewing your atomiser adds an extra level of safety over as well as locking your battery when carrying in a bag or pocket.
• Let you battery rest for an hour or two after charging.
• Your batteries don't do not like the cold, they won't do not work well in freezing conditions.
• Having more than one battery not only gives you a backup but allows more flexibility and makes it easier to fine find a convenient time to charge the spare while you can be there in case anything goes wrong.


THE ABOVE ARE ONLY SUGGESTIONS. and will not really see what it looks like until I post.

[chykensa]

Dec 17, 2014 16:34:34 GMT Brambles said:

I have done some suggested changes. Some pedantic, some not so. Entirely up to you if you implement or not. I kind of lost the flow after I started concetrating more on actually doing the changes rather than what I was wanting to change. Rather than delete or start again I might as well post.

A few more typos I've spotted!!

Do's and Don'ts
• ALWAYS AND ONLY use the charger made specifically for the battery and just because the connection fits does not mean it is compatible with your battery.
(you don't need 'ALWAYS' as ONLY implies always.)
• NEVER leave a lithium battery charging unattended or charge while sleeping (these batteries don't do not have a memory effect like NiCad batteries so just disconnect and charge them again later).
(Simplified to remove nicads as just adds more technical information not really required, and changed don't to "do not" as it is the written word)
• NEVER leave an e-cig or e-liquid where pets or young children can get to it.
• NEVER leave your battery in direct sunlight or in other hot warm locations like your car or near the cooker.
• NEVER charge with a lead, power block or charger that is damaged.
• NEVER charge near heat sources like a hob, dishwasher or strong light source.
• NEVER charge near flammable items like curtains, soft furnishing or paper.
• ALWAYS remove your battery from the charger as soon as it is charged, e.g. light turns green, and unplug the mains adapter.
• ALWAYS charge on a non-flammable surface like metal, ceramic, glass, or in a LiPo safety pouch.
• ALWAYS wipe any e-liquid or dirt off your battery and charger connection before charging, an old tea towel or some kitchen roll is ideal. (will have a bit later on periodic thorough cleaning)
• ALWAYS use your battery's on/off or lock function when you put it in a bag or pocket, before storing or charging, and especially when small children are about.
• ALWAYS dispose of old/ or damaged batteries safely. Don'tDo not bin them. Ask your local council where to take them, usually it'llit will be one of their own facilities.
• NEVER over tighten your battery to your charger or atomiser.

ALWAYS dispose of your battery if:
• It becomes unusually warm or hot, they can get warm especially when you keep them in you hand.
• It has been damaged IE i.e. dented or punctured, leaks any liquid or emits any strange odours or noise.
• It has been submerged or dropped into water, DO NOT charge the battery even if you have dried it out.
• It does not hold a charge overnight or for as long as expected normally.
• It has lost capacity.
A few minor changes suggested.

Tips
• Store your batteries in a non-conductive container at a mild temperature in a cool place away from flammable materials, ideally at around 40% to 70% charge for longer term storage.
• Keep a record of the date you obtained each battery, label them ideally, It as it will help you predict when they are coming to the end of their life.
• Unscrewing your atomiser adds an extra level of safety over as well as locking your battery when carrying in a bag or pocket.
• Let you battery rest for an hour or two after charging.
• Your batteries don't do not like the cold, they won't do not work well in freezing conditions.
• Having more than one battery not only gives you a backup but allows more flexibility and makes it easier to fine find a convenient time to charge the spare while you can be there in case anything goes wrong.


THE ABOVE ARE ONLY SUGGESTIONS. and will not really see what it looks like until I post.

[VapingBad]

Thanks guys I really appreciate you having a look through from me, but at this stage it comments on content and structure that are the most value as I'm sure to make smelling mistakes and typos until it's finished.

[chykensa]

Sorry VapingBad, that last attempt at helping didn't really work - next time I'll colour my edits bright red, not an almost-indecipherable dark green!

ETA: I would be hopeless as a proofreader! Just spotted another one in the TIPS section at the end - 4th bullet point - Let your battery . . .

[keepitgoin]

+ 1 for Torchy as a reputable Battery Supplier (and not bad on price, his prices are per PAIR!!)

[Deleted]

I'm not hear to argue but please advise others to buy branded USB wall sockets from a major high street retailer. It's the only way the spec on the plug is guaranteed, not vaping shops, I know and you know some are selling cheap Chinese chargers, maplins or somewhere? Maybe 5v 500mah and a lipo bag so covers all without confusion. The more experience will know they can go up to 1amp for other devices.

It's great that keeping away from flammable objects has been updated but also the charging location in the house is important, don't charge in your bedroom, smoke rises and most houses have smoke alarms in the hallway and on the landing.

An exploding battery is one thing, electric shock and fire is, well.......

[VapingBad]

Dec 18, 2014 0:56:07 GMT @letsavit said:

I'm not hear to argue but please advise others to buy branded USB wall sockets from a major high street retailer. It's the only way the spec on the plug is guaranteed, not vaping shops, I know and you know some are selling cheap Chinese chargers, maplins or somewhere? Maybe 5v 500mah and a lipo bag so covers all without confusion. The more experience will know they can go up to 1amp for other devices.

It's great that keeping away from flammable objects has been updated but also the charging location in the house is important, don't charge in your bedroom, smoke rises and most houses have smoke alarms in the hallway and on the landing.

An exploding battery is one thing, electric shock and fire is, well.......

Beware of cheap and fake USB power supplies and only buy from a reputable vendor who will only sell CE marked UK specific units.

from post #25, but there will be more on this, it's just a place holder ATM and will apply to both eGo and USB chargeable mods which are currently planned as 2 different sections.  These are just drafts ATM to cover what's needed, then work on the structure and remove as much jargon as possible so they can help the most people.

[Brambles]

Just noticed half of my alterations are not showing up. Had a look under edit post and cannot see why. Maybe it is just my computer having a hic up.

Edit - Closed chrome and restarted and is now showing. Phew!

[Deleted]

Dec 18, 2014 1:05:16 GMT VapingBad said:

Dec 18, 2014 0:56:07 GMT @letsavit said:

I'm not hear to argue but please advise others to buy branded USB wall sockets from a major high street retailer. It's the only way the spec on the plug is guaranteed, not vaping shops, I know and you know some are selling cheap Chinese chargers, maplins or somewhere? Maybe 5v 500mah and a lipo bag so covers all without confusion. The more experience will know they can go up to 1amp for other devices.

It's great that keeping away from flammable objects has been updated but also the charging location in the house is important, don't charge in your bedroom, smoke rises and most houses have smoke alarms in the hallway and on the landing.

An exploding battery is one thing, electric shock and fire is, well.......

Beware of cheap and fake USB power supplies and only buy from a reputable vendor who will only sell CE marked UK specific units.

from post #25, but there will be more on this, it's just a place holder ATM and will apply to both eGo and USB chargeable mods which are currently planned as 2 different sections.  These are just drafts ATM to cover what's needed, then work on the structure and remove as much jargon as possible so they can help the most people.

That's great mate.

you know your stuff, no doubt about it, but don't take this the wrong way you bombard some users with so much information it has an adverse effect. You also got to think that most people will get distracted with life, go answer the phone, attend arguing/crying children etc and leave stuff charging, something they have done their whole life. It's also human nature until something happens, we all drive around in 1ton bits of metal and forget how dangerous it can be until we have a near miss or worse. 

Anyway, not trying to created more work for you but I would like your detailed jargon one, maybe a beginner and advance? 

After typing the the above I'm getting the girlfriend a lipo bag, pretty sure she ignores my advice when im not around...! 

[VapingBad]

Ego section, content complete unless Ripshod wants to make changes.

eGo & Cigalike batteries that charge via the atomiser connection

This guide will tell you the difference between the these types link. You should ALWAYS follow the manufactures instructions and this guide is not intended to replace them. This guide has been prepared by forum members who have taken care to accurately research the information provided, but it is provided for use at your own risk and neither the forum or the members who contributed to this guide accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy of the information or advice or for any consequence that result from following the advice.

Do's and Don'ts
• ONLY use the charger made specifically for the battery and just because the connection fits does not mean it is compatible with your battery.
• NEVER leave a Li-ion battery charging unattended or charge while sleeping (these batteries do not have a memory effect so just disconnect and charge them again later).
• NEVER leave an e-cig or e-liquid where pets or young children can get to it.
• NEVER leave your battery in direct sunlight or in other hot locations like your car or near the cooker.
• NEVER charge in temperatures below 5 Celsius, this will affect the long-term safety of you battery.
• NEVER charge in temperatures above 35 Celsius, this risks starting a fire.
• NEVER charge with a lead, power block or charger that is damaged.
• NEVER charge near heat sources like a hob, dishwasher or strong light source.
• NEVER charge near flammable items like curtains, soft furnishing or paper.
• NEVER charge where your battery or charger could get wet E.G next to the kitchen sink.
• ALWAYS remove your battery from the charger as soon as it is charged E.G. light turns green, and unplug the mains adapter.
• ALWAYS charge on a non-flammable surface like a ceramic plate or in a LiPo safety pouch.
• ALWAYS wipe any e-liquid or dirt off your battery and charger connection before charging, an old tea towel or some kitchen roll is ideal.
• ALWAYS use your battery's on/off or lock function when you put it in a bag or pocket, before storing or charging and especially when small children are about.
• ALWAYS dispose of old or damaged batteries safely. Do no bin them. Ask your local council where to take them, usually it will be one of their own facilities.
• NEVER over tighten your battery to your charger or atomiser.

ALWAYS dispose of your battery if:
• It becomes unusually hot, they can get warm especially when you keep them in you hand during use.
• It has been damaged I.E. dented or punctured, leaks any liquid or emits any strange odours.
• It has been submerged or dropped into water, DO NOT charge the battery even if you have dried it out.
• It does not hold a charge overnight.
• It has lost capacity.


Tips
• Store your batteries in a non-conductive container in a cool place away from flammable materials, ideally at around 40% charge for longer term storage, but never store them when fully discharged for long.
• Keep a record of the date you obtained each battery, label them ideally as it will help you predict when they are coming to the end of their life.
• Unscrewing your atomiser adds an extra level of safety over locking your battery when carrying in a bag or pocket.
• Let your battery rest for an hour or two after charging.
• Your batteries do not like the cold, they will not work well in freezing conditions.
• Having more than one battery not only gives you a backup but allows more flexibility and makes it easier to find a convenient time to charge the spare while you can be there in case anything goes wrong.


Thermal runaway in Li-ion batteries
Li-ion batteries are pressurised, contain flammable material and can store very high levels of energy. If overheated or overcharged, Li-ion batteries may suffer thermal runaway and cell rupture. They have a pressure valve that will allow the extremely hot flammable gases and possibly liquid to escape, known as venting and even flames in extreme cases flaming. If the pressure valve fails to open an explosion can result. If venting occurs the hot spots inside the battery can potentially continue to heat until the battery combusts or dissembles (explodes). Manufacturing defects and poor design can also cause thermal runaway at any time so it is important not to risk using low quality batteries and always purchase from trusted vendors to avoid counterfeits. There are other potential factors that can cause thermal runaway mentioned in the do's and don'ts section above.

If your battery does get too hot take it outdoors and leave it in a safe place to cool if possible and keep pets away from it, then dispose of it once cool. If your battery flames or catches fire use a dry content fire extinguisher if possible or if not available water (be careful of electrical hazards such as a charger still connected to the mains). The FAA recommend immersing it in water too cool a burning battery, but RCHARGE warn of electrical hazards from large battery packs and surrounding equipment.

[for mod batteries the following will be included in this section: over voltage & static destroying the protection circuits, short & partial short, reverse polarity, over discharging, sparking]

Charging set up
You need 3 things to charge these:
1) the battery, which contains a battery cell, a switch and a small circuit that provides some protection.
2) the charger, which the battery screws into and normally has a USB plug to connect to a power supply and and LED that changes colour when it is charged
3) a power supply, this could be a USB socket on your computer, a USB hub or a USB power supply that plugs into the mains (sometimes called a wall wart) or into a car cigar lighter socket.
(there are some car charges that combine 2 & 3 into one unit)

The charger (#2) and power supply (#3) do different jobs and it is important not to confuse the two units to be able to understand this next bit. The most important thing to remember with these batteries is to ONLY use the charger (#2) supplied with your battery. If you look closely in the picture below of 3 charges that look the same, have the same fittings, but are very different electrically. The small circuit inside your battery may share the control of how the actual battery cell inside is charged with the charger unit or it may be quite dumb and accept anything its given. This could cause the battery cell inside your battery to overheat and vent gases, vent flames or even explode.



Techie detail about the picture
Unlike e-cigs that charge directly with a USB cable these devices do not have a standard output voltage, in the picture the top two output 5 V and the bottom one only 4.2 V, DC on the label stands for direct current and all batteries will be DC. Plus they all have different values for the output current in mA (mili amps, thousandths of an amp) generally the smaller the battery the smaller the amps. The battery cell inside your battery should never be given more than 4.25 V or be given too high current (amps or mili-amps) both can cause it to overheat.

These batteries are all quite small and there is no need to use a high current (amps or mili-amps) USB power supply, if you have a decent quality e-cig & charger combo in good working order it is OK to use a higher current USB supply like the one that with your SmartPhone as the battery & charger combo will only take what it needs. But you can give yourself an extra level of safety by sticking to a standard USB supply rated at 5 V DC, 500 mA or 550 mA output which should be clearly printed on the label, computer sockets can vary because later USB standards can go above this. Beware of cheap and fake USB power supplies and only buy from a reputable vendor who will only sell CE marked UK specific units.

Charging your eCig
Chose a sensible location away from any heat sources like radiators, washing machines or direct sunlight and put your battery on a flame proof surface a ceramic plate before you start. If you have the manufactures guidance on charging then follow that, but usually you turn off your battery, connect it to the charger and connect that to the power supply and turn on the mains power. Various LED lights will come on and maybe flash for a few seconds before charging starts. Typically the LED on the charger will be red while charging and turn green or blue when finished, some batteries also have an LED, sometimes in the fire button or the tip of a cigalike which also have a meaning. The exact meaning of the colour codes and flashes varies form model to model and there should be information from the vendor or manufactures about what means.

If you need to leave the room where your charging for more than a few minutes it is safest turn the mains to the charger off and disconnect the battery, you can resume charging when you get back and it won't shorten the life of your battery. If you are unwilling to do this then consider a LiPo Safe or Lipo Guard charging pouch that will provide some protection in the event the battery vents, flames of explodes.

Once charging is complete disconnect everything and ensure your battery is turned off, if you have another battery that is only half empty it may be more convenient to charge that now if you are going to be out and about later.

Some cigalike kits have a Personal Charging Case, Portable Charger Case or PCC that you can charge with while you are out and about, if this is going to be out of sight a LiPo Safe or Lipo Guard charging pouch would be a good idea.


Maintenance
Before charging wipe any excess e-liquid from the battery connection with a dry tissue. Every couple of weeks inspect the battery, charger and connections for dirt, corrosion or physical damage. If the connections are corroded or battery or charger (including the cable) are damaged you should dispose of them safely. If the connections are dirty you can clean them with a cotton bud or similar and a solvent like Isopropanol Alcohol (IPA) or Mentholated spirit.

There are more usage tips in this thread and around the forum.

[VapingBad]

Link list:
Batteries in a Portable World 2nd Ed
Battery University
RECHARGE Then European Association for Advanced Rechargeable Batteries
ECF battery page
Li-Ion protection technology and possible dangers from CandlePower forum
Li-Ion protected batteries vs IMR - safety ECF
What exactly does IMR mean from CandlePower forum
Smoke and Fire, Hot Cells and Close Calls - The dangerous side of batteries from CandlePower forum
Lygte reviews
Batteries Explained and Safety - VapeTV
Lithium-ion battery - Wikipedia

[Ripshod]

Great work VapingBad
No issues with what you have written at all.

I did have worries about the 'smart' USB hubs that I was under the impression could deliver up tp 5 Amps per port. On invstigations I can make it clear these hubs will only deliver 500mA (the USB 2.0 spec) unless it detects a device that 'asks' for more. Just clearing that point up - though I'm not sure about the Chinese cheapos, they don't really publish that kind of information.

Spotted one typo (grammar):

This guide will tell you the difference between the these types link. You should ALWAYS follow the manufactures instructions and this guide is not intended to replace them. This guide has been prepared by forum members who have taken care to accurately research the information provided, but it is provided for use at your own risk and neither the forum or the members who contributed to this guide accept any responsibility or (nor?) liability for the accuracy of the information or advice or for any consequence that result from following the advice.

But then my grammar was given to me by old-fashioned masters

[VapingBad]

I wish it was just a typo, just lack of English skills I have Grade 3 CSE English and I don't think we ever got that advanced in set 5.

[Ripshod]

But you can write this thread, something I was never inclined to learn. I can throw the odd letter together, but that's just about it!!

[Deleted]

Great looking guide there guys!

When you're happy with it, just tag us when you're ready.