Battery pack checks for the return to sailing.

Over the last couple of weeks we have been getting some positive signs that if things go to the Governments roadmap we may soon be allowed to get back to some sort of sailing again. Obviously this will have to be conducted within the guidelines published at the time.

This got me thinking about preparing the radio equipment and battery packs ready for use, if like me your equipment has had a long lay off now is the time to do some checks before you want to use it. One of the things that you need to consider is the battery packs, these have possibly laid unloved in the tool boxes for several months and will have naturally run as flat as they will go. Firstly take them out and inspect them for any damage, pay particular attention to the connectors and the soldered joins, and insulation around them. Check the battery voltage, if the voltage is very low you may not be able to recharge them, and doing so may cause them to become very hot or break down internally, this applies to all style of battery, and in particular be aware of the condition of Lithium Polymer batteries.

There is a very good article on Lithium Polymer batteries written by Bob Smith that I came across several years ago on the BMFA website. It really highlights the things that need to watched and how to care for these style of batteries. Please pay attention to the sections on “Charging”, “Aging” and “Safety”.

There is also a couple of indepth guides for both Lithium Polymer, and Hydride & Nicad batteries written by Andrew Gibbs on his website here: http://www.gibbsguides.com/hydrideguide.htm

Don’t forget this also applies to the radio battery packs, not just the ones in the boat. Either could have picked up some moisture and the terminals and joints become corroded, check for “black wire” as well.

Then if all is good you will hopefully suffer less equipment failures when we get back to sailing.