Anyone Using Li-Polys?

[tiggs]

Hi guys,
Is anyone using the new Li-Poly Kokams from FMA or anywhere else? I've been following the threads on them and remain a little confued/tentative about trying them


Ted

[Don Leitz]

Hi Ted,
I have two 2S1P packs of Kokam 1020 cells that I have been using in my Tiny-X and Wing-E. I also bought a Plantraco charger to charge them, as they require a very specific charging routine. So far, results have been very favorable. I am getting about 40 minutes of flying time from each pack on these planes. Both planes are powered by GWS IPS geared motors that draw about 2 - 2.5 amps static.

My SOP has been to charge using the Plantraco charger at my convenience (takes about 6 hours @ .2C) and leave the cells fully charged on the shelf ready for flight. These cells do not self-discharge, and do not need to be charged immediately before flying for best performance. They can be charged @ up to 1C, but there really isn't any reason to. My attention span only allows me to fly for about 10 minutes or so, then I take a break and fly again. These cells are really convenient for those "last-minute" decisions to grab a flight, as they are always ready to go. In addition, there is no need to charge between flights, as I get 3-4 flights per charge. The 2S1P packs weigh about 1.6 ounces vs. 2.1 ounces for the 7x300 1/3AA NiMH packs I was using, so there is some weight savings as well. Let me know if you want any more info.

Don

[mrebman]

Ted:
I'm using Qualcomm 830 & 1500 Lions & making them up into Parallel Packs. So far I like them, I used a Qualcomm "1660" Parallel pack in my GWS Zero & had some nice flights last weekend at Joyce Park.
I have been meaning to go out to VOA but never have gotten there, do you take guests or do I have to join first to fly?

-Mike-

AMA377654

[tiggs]

Mike,

We cetainly welcome visitors. We have the use of the space from the park service. IC isn't really welcome by the park, but everyting else is...electric, glider, handlaunch, etc.

We banned together as a club to get the space from the park, but visitors are always welcome, as are new additions ;)

Don and Mike,

Great info on the Li-Polys. I'd love to see what you have one Saturday. I am thinking of replacing my 8x350 nicad packs for my AF 010. It draws 6 amps static and then unloads, I presume.

I have been reading the threads, and everyone seems thrilled, but I can't quite make out what I need! to get 9.6 volts I assume I need a 3s pack, but not sure if I need a parrallel connection.

Also, how do the cells get connected at all? They are in a bag? They have PC connectors? Do you solder, snap together, buy ready made?

Is the charger specific to the size of the pack?

Maybe I can find somethiing at Toledo, as FMA seems to be really active in this area, and they are always there?

Ted

[Don Leitz]

Ted,
I can certainly bring a pack with me on Saturday. Whether or not I can fly with it depends on the weather - both my Tiny-X and Wing-E don't care much for wind.

I am new to the LiPo game as well, but we can talk Saturday if you'll be at the field. I would wait until Toledo to buy if possible so that you can talk to FMA about your applications.

Don

[HeadEast]

https://www.fmadirect.com/site/fma.htm?body=Support

The above link contains good info on Li-Poly's. It was put together by Electroman (The "F" in FMA)