Dc Voltage reduction LiPo battery

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the challenge of reducing the voltage output from a LiPo battery for use in a racing motorcycle's water pump control system. The battery outputs 15.2 volts, while the water pump control system requires a voltage between 12-13.5 volts. Participants explore potential solutions to achieve this voltage reduction.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests using diodes in series to reduce the voltage, noting that this method is likely the easiest solution.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of knowing the current draw of the water pump, recommending diodes rated for at least double the maximum current draw of 12 amps.
  • A later reply provides a link to a source for purchasing diodes, though it does not specify which diodes would be appropriate for this application.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that using diodes is a feasible method for reducing voltage, but there is no consensus on the specific type or specifications of diodes to use.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not resolved the specific calculations or criteria for selecting the appropriate diodes, and there are assumptions regarding the current draw and voltage drop characteristics of the diodes that remain unaddressed.

oldboyonrgv
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Hi
I have what seems to be a untractable problem
On a racing motorcycle I am using a total loss ingition/datalogging and water pump system. To power this I am using a 5000Ma 30C LiPo battery (used because of it light weight and small size). The measured battery output is 15.2 Volts. Both the ignition and datalogger are fine at this voltage as their parameters are 8-16VDC, however the control system for the waterpump is specified 12-13.5VDC. Sure enough when I connect this into the circuit the conroller has all sorts of issues.. Do you guys know of an elegant way to reduce the input voltage to an acceptable level?

I have though of using a couple of diodes in series, but to be honest I don't know which ones to buy!

Any help would be greatfully recieved.
 
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The first thing you need to know is how much current the water pump draws. This will tell you how much current the diodes must handle. When buying diodes I'd buy ones for at least double the amount of current the water pump draws.

The diodes are probably the easiest way to drop a little voltage.
 
Sorry - Yes max current draw is 12Amps, if the diode solution is the best way I really need to know which ones to get... or some way of calculating the value for them..
 

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