I am suggesting that a volentary LiPo safety code be adopted by all electric RCer's. This is the draft code for you all to consider and comment on. After comments I will put this code to a poll and if adopted request it be stuck at the top of this forum.


LiPo Code:

Beginners:

1 If you are learning to fly you should use a relatively safe battery technology such as NiCd or NiMh until you are competent and all RCer’s will advise beginners in this way.

2 Unless you have experience at electronic projects you should not construct LiPo packs or chargers yourself and certainly not as a first project and all RCer’s will advise beginners in this way.

Safety:

3 LiPo’s should only be charged in a fire resistant container/area and should remain under regular observation while charging

4 While charging a suitable fire extinguisher should be available at all times, this can be as simple as a bucket of sand.

5 LiPo’s should only be transported and stored in a fire resistant container. For example an electrically insulated surplus ammunition box, ceramic pot with loose fitting lid, small fire resistant security box, will do. The container should not be totally airtight.

6 Lipo’s that have been involved in a crash should be inspected for damage, then placed in a their own fire resistant container for a period of 72 hours, monitored for signs of damage and used again only when you are entirely satisfied they are not damaged. Any damaged cells should be safely disposed of.

7 Do not place or transport LiPo’s in your pockets. If something goes wrong you could be burned or neutered or both.

8 It is wise to carry with you safety glasses when using LiPo’s. If a pack is damaged or a plane using Lipo’s crashes don the safety glasses before you approach the crash or handle LiPo’s. Lose an eye and you will not fly.

Charging:

9. You MUST use a charger designed for Lithium Polymer Batteries (LiPo’s). Do NOT use a charger intended for NiCd/NiMh or other batteries you will damage the cells permanently and may cause a fire.

10. LiPo cells cannot be "fast charged". Never charge at a mA rate higher than the capacity of the battery (1C max charge rate). For example a 1200 mAh pack cannot be charged at a rate greater than 1200 mA. For best charging, low charge rates should be used where possible.

11. Cells must not be overcharged otherwise damage to the cell will occur and a fire could occur. Cells must not be charged to more than 4.2 volts per cell. Eg 1 cell 4.2 volts, 2 cells in series 8.4 volts etc

12. You must NOT discharge your LiPo cells below 2.7 volts or they may become permanently damaged.

13 If you do not understand any of these points, abbreviations or concepts you you are not ready to use Lithium Polymer Batteries.