New batteries for heavyweight

[bigflipper]

We are thinking about putting litium polymer batteries into Nipper when the ni-cads finally die and we would like to know the present thinking of the Committee with out new safety officer Jason on this matter.

[geeza]

The rules are currently being updated for Lipos in feathers which will go to email vote between the committee next week. Just some minor updates nothing that will affect those currently using Lipos, as those teams have demonstrated safe treatment of this type of battery. Use of Lipos will be discussed at the next FRA meeting in march, looking maybe to a trial in a heavyweight similar to the A123 trial John Reid did with Thz only hopefully shorter. Glyn would you be interested in supporting a trial in Big Nipper if it is decided a trial should be undertaken?

[Mouldy]

I believe the FRA are awaiting a candidate to trial them in heavyweights. Id say big nipper would be the perfect candidate. Due to the team already having lipo experiance and the fact the robot is well enclosed should anything happen.

When i proposed heavyweight use of lipos the FRA's outcome at the meeting was they wanted to see some destructive tests for themselfs.. I dont think its neccasairy due to the amount of videos on youtube about it.

If pierced.. they smoke alot
If over discharged they do go pop.. but you should have a fuse inline anyhow to prevent this.
if over charged they can go pop.. But you should charge them in a lipo sack anyhow so it shouldnt be an issue... again just more smoke will come out the bag... And the fumes are only as bad if not as bad as nicad fumes.

I carnt see them getting pierced in big nipper.

What pack configuration are you thinking of using and how many amp-hours? Aslong as its not above 10c 20amp i think the FRA came to the conclusion it should be allowed..(I think it was 20amp.. carnt remember)

I think its down to the EO's more then anything.. Contact Jonno or Alan to see what they think about you using them in there arena's.

[graeme]

We are thinking of using 2 6cell 3800 45c-90c burst thunderpower pro packs in parrallel for the drive, which would be able to handle 342amps cont and 684 burst with a 400-500amp fuse. The weapon would still run off 1 ni-cad pack. But we are going to wait until our current batteries give up first.

[geeza]

Graeme can you let me have an email address for you guys, I can't seem to find one. Just so I can keep you in the loop about discussions on this topic. Thanks.

(edwallace555'at'hotmail.com)