I would like to share a new product I recently discovered that
should effectively replace my LiPo batteries in many situations.
These are Li-Ion batteries with extremely low internal resistance,
allowing for an incredible continuous discharge rate of 70A in the
18650 format. For comparison, a Sony-Murata C6 cell is rated for
30A, while other brands generally do not exceed 10A.
To illustrate the advantages of these new batteries, I’ll use two personal examples:
My ASW-17 FW: I currently use a 6S 2800mAh graphen LiPo weighing 361g—the lightest option I could find for this capacity. If I switch to a 6S 3000mAh Li-Ion setup, I gain slightly more capacity while reducing the overall weight.
My Electro Quantum 3 (F3G): The energy density here is very impressive. Typically, models of this type use either a 3S 1800mAh pack (my current setup) or a 4S 1300mAh configuration (using two 2S packs, as a single 4S pack is often too wide for the fuselage). By switching to Li-Ion, I can increase capacity to 3000mAh for the same weight in the 3S configuration, or more than double the capacity in the 4S configuration with only a negligible increase in weight.
Consider the capabilities of these batteries: they can deliver a continuous 70A (with peaks of 150A), can be safely discharged down to 2.8V per cell to utilize their full capacity, are rated for 800 cycles (a conservative estimate), can be stored fully charged (ideally at 4.1V per cell), and—unlike LiPo batteries—do not swell. I find the offer really appealing!
Also, unlike LiPo batteries—which are still essentially handmade (due to low production volumes) in just three factories before being branded and sold by dozens of different companies—Li-ion batteries are manufactured on automated, robotic production lines. This ensures consistent quality from one cell to the next.
When it comes to safety, Li-Ion chemistry offers a massive
advantage over LiPo: puncture resistance. LiPo batteries use a
soft polymer pouch that is easily damaged in a crash, often
leading to spectacular thermal runaway and fires. In contrast,
18650 Li-Ion cells are encased in a rigid, heavy-duty steel
cylinder that absorbs shocks, vastly reducing the risk of
accidental combustion. Furthermore, they are chemically much more
stable, making them far safer to store at full charge inside your
home or workshop.
Noro-Ion batteries come in three cell sizes and are assembled
using silver solder. More products with even higher energy
densities are expected to arrive by the end of the year.
I’ve seen the assembled batteries, and I have to say the result is
incredibly neat and impressive. I spoke with my friend Philippe
Lanes, who already uses these batteries in a Baudis GP15 (6S, I
believe) and an Aviatik Composites Falco (3S); he told me the
performance is amazing in terms of handling and runtime, with a
single pack easily lasting through an entire afternoon of flying.
For batteries with an odd number of cells, a 1g spacer takes the place of the missing cell, allowing the packs to maintain the visual appearance of an even-numbered configuration.
As for competition, I can't say whether competitors need 3000 mAh capacity for F3G...
Of course, an inline 2S battery would work fine for an HV receiver setup, though it might be a bit overkill.
Anyway, I’ve ordered my packs from the website (https://www.noro-ion.com/) and am expecting delivery in the next few days. I can't wait to try them out and will keep you posted!
