Batteries
From SnoCo Robotics
Battery Technologies and Equipment for mobile robots.
Selecting a Technology
Your choice in battery is depending on many robotic requirements but some of the items to be considered include:
- Price
- Discharge Capacity
- Charge Rate
- Safety of Battery & Storage
- Weight
- Ability to Recycle
- Estimated Lifetime
The current information in the remaining sections was presented as data with Chas' discussion in the December 2020 Meeting.
LiPo
Lithium Polymer (LiPo)
- Discussion Link: [1]
Pros:
- 20-100C discharge
- 1C+ charge
- Good Weight/Watts
- Easy to source
Cons:
- Dangerous -- Fire
- Storage
- Recycling
- Special Charger: [2]
Notes: This is my preference with a very fast recharge cycle and 129W/Kg. Don't go cheap on a charger. Store in a safety bag.
SLA
Sealed Lead Acid (SLA)
- Discussion Link: [3]
Pros:
- Cheap
- Reliable
- Medium Discharge
- Easy to Recycle
- Low cost charger
Cons:
- Heavy
- Slow Charge Rate
Notes: Very easy to source, even free in some cases. 33.664W/Kg
NiMH
Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH)
- Discussion Link: [4]
Pros:
- Excellent Weight/Watts
- Easy to source/replace cells.
- Fairly safe
Cons:
- Expensive
- 3C MAX Discharge
- Medium-Slow recharge
- Difficult to Recycle
Notes: Middle of the road but the slow and possibly recharge rate has me disinterested 89W/Kg