speedcell install

[EEL]

So slightly off topic but I checked the pricing on the Speedcells. They're pretty expensive!

From what I see its just looks like an 8 pack of lithium nanophosphate like batteries. Whats stopping us from making these ourselves? I'm wondering if anyone has tried? I saw some batteries on the site below. Anyone know why these couldnt be substituted? I'm sure shrink wrap could be found for relatively cheap.

A123systems.com

[EEL]

So after doing a quick google search, I found this link. This guy made 3 different cells and packed them together but realistically, I dont see why we couldnt just modify his bus connections to increase the voltage to approx 12V.

http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=599316

[Takster]

So after doing a quick google search, I found this link. This guy made 3 different cells and packed them together but realistically, I dont see why we couldnt just modify his bus connections to increase the voltage to approx 12V.

http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=599316

Somebody should do this and write us a tutorial 

[EEL]

I think the hardest part will be controlling the re-charge and discharge rates. I'm thinking there must be a PCB avaialable to control them.

[748s]

lots of info here
http://www.ducati.ms/forums/showthread.php?t=51537

[junior varsity]

I really like the SpeedCell concept, I just don't have the spare jingle lying around to replace a perfectly good battery. So I have to wait a few more years till this one craps out.

[erkishhorde]

Now to embarrass myself, what is a speedcell?? their website is nothing.

I'm thinking it's a LI battery to reduce weight and size.

[ducatiz]

how do they compare CCA wise to a regular battery?

i seem to remember the LIs are not good for repeated cranking.

[Triple J]

Lithium Ferrous, not Lithium Ion

Not sure what the exact different is...but they are specific in pointing that out.

[ducatiz]

Lithium Ferrous, not Lithium Ion

Not sure what the exact different is...but they are specific in pointing that out.

i assumed the ion was ferrous.  interesting.

[moto]

So slightly off topic but I checked the pricing on the Speedcells. They're pretty expensive!

From what I see its just looks like an 8 pack of lithium nanophosphate like batteries. Whats stopping us from making these ourselves? I'm wondering if anyone has tried? I saw some batteries on the site below. Anyone know why these couldnt be substituted? I'm sure shrink wrap could be found for relatively cheap.

A123systems.com

Just be carefull.

We worked with a few others that have tried to build their own. An improperly assembled, in correct application or defective A123 battery pack  can overheat, vent and cause a fire.
That is not a good thing for a bike that has the battery under the fuel tank.

If they are done right, these Speedcells last a long time. There are some that are on their 5th year that are still going strong. So far we have not seen the same level of success with the do-it-yourself batteries. Not to say it can't be done.

Just be carefull. Saving some money is one thing. On typical lead acid batteries, an incorrect application or defective one will just drain and die. An improperly assembled, incorrect application or defective A123 cell can overheat, vent and cause a fire.

-M

[EEL]

Totally agree. You need to get an overcharging shutoff to make sure you dont damage the cells. These are available out there.

Also important to buy geniune A123 cells. The Nanophosphate technology used by A123 actually makes them more flame proof than their competitors. Tests show flame protection up to 80C.

Better to not buy the chinese knockoffs.

[Drunken Monkey]

I love DIY electronics.

But I wouldn't contemplate trying to make one of these myself.

There's a lot of power stored in these, and by extension, a lot of potential for mayhem.

[junior varsity]

oooh! Mayhem! The forceful removal of defense-related appendages from an opponent's body!

(Original definition dealt with the crime of wilful maiming or dismemberment of another, the more commonly used 'disturbance' synonym is a substitution for 'havoc')