Bench Test Results: Radio Shack 20A 2500mAh 18650...accurately rated but 25R performs better

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Mooch

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  • May 13, 2015
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    These tests below only note the ESTIMATED ratings for these batteries at the time I tested them. Any battery that is not a genuine Samsung, Sony, Murata, LG, Panasonic, or Sanyo can change at any time! This is one of the hazards of using “rewrapped” or batteries from other manufacturers so carefully research any battery you are considering using before purchasing.

    Misusing or mishandling lithium-ion batteries can pose a SERIOUS RISK of personal injury or property damage. They are not meant to be used outside of a protected battery pack. Never exceed the battery’s current rating and keep the plastic wrap and top insulating ring in perfect condition.

    Testing batteries at their limits is dangerous and should never, ever, be attempted by anyone who has not thoroughly studied the dangers involved, understands the risks, has the proper equipment, and takes all appropriate safety precautions.

    If the battery has only one current rating number, or if it only says "max", then I have to assume the battery is rated at that current level for any type of discharge, including continuous.

    41CC31E1-6564-4E07-9EC1-642374B6BC8C.jpeg D228BAEC-9D31-4BAB-8E59-3D7B5210283B.jpeg 4FCFBA89-5541-4B14-BCAF-4769C90B1B6A.jpeg CABA7CCB-65B3-4FA5-AE0F-715C81E84E21.jpeg


    Bottom Line
    While this cell is accurately rated it is not a great performer. But it is certainly an option if you need a 20A cell and no other better performing cells, like the Samsung 25R, are available.

    The two I tested showed a bit of inconsistency in performance between them but it wasn’t bad.

    These Radio Shack cells use a paper ring as the top insulator. Do not let eliquid, or any liquid, get on the top as it could weaken the ring and/or cause rusting underneath.

    The two cells I tested delivered 2712mAh and 2713mAh at 500mA (0.2C) down to 2.5V. This is good performance for a cell rated at 2500mAh.

    I am ESTIMATING this Radio Shack’s ratings to be 20A continuous (about 60W) and 2500mAh.

    Two cells were purchased for the purposes of testing by me.


    Continuous Current Discharge Graphs
    B01D40B2-494B-4A8A-A37B-628938804208.jpeg 7CDB5F69-AB04-42ED-B5EF-8A3440E5DAA4.jpeg


    Ratings Graphic
    5B36D1B0-01D6-46F0-BD96-BB6833EB595B.jpeg


    Performance Specs
    - DC Internal Resistance = 29.0mOhms (milliohms) average for the two cells.
    - Total energy delivered down to 3.2V at 10A continuous = 6.4Wh
    - Total energy delivered down to 3.2V at 20A continuous = 4.2Wh

    I want to work for the vaping community full time! If you feel what I do is worth a couple dollars a month and you would like early access to battery availability and testing news and a say in what I test then please consider becoming a patron and supporting my testing efforts: Battery Mooch is creating battery tests and educating vapers | Patreon.

    To see how other cells have tested check out this link: List of Battery Tests | E-Cigarette Forum
     
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