[NSRCA-discussion] Landmark for e-pattern: >1C charging

[Adam Glatt]

http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showpost.php?p=5182816&postcount=24
That post is by Charlie Wang, head of Thunder Power.  Charlie has been 
running cycle test experiments where he cycles Thunder Power Pro Lite 
batteries with 2C and 3C charge rates, and 4C discharge rates.  His 
experiments have convinced him that 3C charging of Thunder Power Pro 
Lite batteries does not harm the batteries.

This is a major step for electric R/C.  Consider a situation with one 
charger, two batteries, and 10 minute flights - low cost, typical 
pattern and sport equipment.  Charge times are inside of 30 minutes.  
Allowing 5 minutes for pack cool-down, it is possible to log 5 flights 
in less than 2 hours.  In a pattern situation this isn't yet possible, 
because it takes a 16A charger to charge the 5.3Ah pack at 3C and they 
don't exist.  Using available chargers, two TP 1010's ($320-$400), two 
TP 210 balancers ($140-$200), and four 5s4p5300 packs ($1100-$1300), the 
time for 5 flights would be something like 130minutes.

3C charging (currently 2C with pattern packs and available chargers) 
allows you to fly just as much with fewer batteries.  That saves outlay 
costs, if not cost per flight, and certainly reduces the length of time 
you are stuck with current technology.

More good news from the electric world.

Those of you planning on charging at >1C, make sure you read Charlie's 
post.  He gives specific guidelines and practices.

-Adam