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
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