Sony US26650VT Li-ion Cells - Need More info

[sikeston34m]

Originally Posted by lincpimp

Looks interesting, How are you attaching the cells end to end?

You do need to test these, if they are ghood for 15-20c discharge rates, they would be a good solution. Are they available online for sale?

I don't like the idea of straight soldering cell to cell. There's ALOT of heat involved with doing that. It might be ok for Nimh or even A123, but I don't feel like it's a good idea with Lithium Ion.

You can solder to them, but you gotta get in and get out quickly. Afterwards, I like to quickly cool the solder with a wet cold cloth. It sucks the heat right outta there.

On the 18650 and smaller cells, there is a neoprene gasket under the positive end. If too much heat is applied, this will melt and then leak electrolyte. Not good. So much care needs to be taken. I'm not sure if the 26650 cells have this same gasket, but I'm not taking any chances on that.

First I scuff the ends lightly with a Dremel tool.

See the copper jumper bars? I solder each end of a jumper to a cell. Then I carefully fold it over until the cells are end to end, taking care to make sure they are square. This also provides a nice convenient solder spot to attach balance leads.

I then apply 1 layer of heat shrink, attach the power lead, then go back and put one more layer of heat shrink on. Double heat shrunk for toughness.

I'm hoping these will make for some good bashing packs. They not be the best for all out racing, but I think they "might" do.

I do know where a few are. PM if you want more info Linc.