In recognition of Battery Safety week, we will be publishing daily battery tips each day for the duration of the event. As they are published, the will be added to the list below.
Battery Safety week was inspired by unfortunate rare incidents of Vaping Product battery mishaps around the world where more often than not, we have observed that a majority of these incidents are a direct result of improper handling and / or lack of understanding about risks and limitations of the batteries and devices being used.
These battery safety tips are a collection of common and misunderstood facts about batteries and battery (mis)handling. Much of the information has been obtained from the Battery University website, news articles and websites focused on electronics and electronics safety.
If you notice that the battery doesn’t last as long as it did when you purchased it new, it’s probably time to replace it!
Batteries will eventually die, but when and how?
As the condition of a battery deteriorates, the self-discharge increases, which can develop into a sizable current between the electrodes. Similar to a seemingly harmless water leak in a faulty hydro dam that can develop into a torrent and take a structure down, so can also high self-discharge build up heat and damage the separator, leading to an electrical short. The temperature will quickly reach 500°C (932°F), at which point the cell catches fire or explodes. The thermal runaway that occurs is known as “venting with flame; “rapid disassembly” is the preferred term by the battery industry.
Typically, you should replace your batteries every 3-6 months.
Every Li-Ion Battery has limitations on the amount of Current (Amperage) that it can safely withstand (5A, 10A, 15A,etc). Know the limitations of the battery that you are using.
Learn about and use Ohms Law with Mechanical devices to help with that calculation.
Do NOT use batteries with signs of wear or tears in the outer cover. The cover is an insulator that prevents shorting of the battery.
While there are aftermarket products available for re-wrapping batteries with torn or worn outer wrappers, these should only be used by individuals with the knowledge and skills to analyze a battery and properly replace the wrapper. You must also be mindful of Battery Pro Tip #1: Batteries do not last forever (above).
Many people will carry extra or spare batteries when they go out for extended periods of time. What must be remembered is that you should NEVER place loose batteries in your pocket, purse or bags with other loose metal objects such as coins or keys.
Always use a protective storage case. Pick one up today, free at participating retail locations in Canada during Battery Safety week.
As with any Li-ion Battery, you should never leave it on the charger for long periods of time while you are not around to keep an eye on the device.
This does not mean that you need to stare at the battery while it is charging, but simply that you should not go to sleep or leave the house with them charging.
When you travel by air, the FAA requires that all Li-ion batteries be placed in your carry-on baggage.
In January, 2015, the FAA released this news article: FAA to Airlines: E-cigs in Checked Bags are Fire Risk
This means that you must carry your vaping device with you through Security. The only rules currently in place by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) pertains to e-liquid volumes as with any other liquid.
Never charge your battery in sub-freezing (below 0°C / 32°F) temperatures or expose it to excessive heat for extended periods as this will damage the battery.
Do you know what to do?
Do not dispose of batteries in your household garbage bin as they pose a significant risk of fire in landfills.
As with any battery, Li-ion batteries should be disposed of properly and most vaping product retail locations will be able to assist you with battery disposal.
You can also find a registered Drop Off Location near you at Call2Recycle.
If you have ANY questions or concerns about battery safety, please do not hesitate to Contact Us through our website.
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