Misc. Looking for entry level DIY ideas

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on safely utilizing previously used batteries from a bicycle hub motor for various projects, including creating portable battery packs, converting a bike or moped to electric, or expanding a UPS system for a PC. Key considerations include the importance of understanding battery specifications, such as output voltage and energy storage capacity, which are crucial for safe application. There is a strong caution against DIY projects with lithium-ion batteries due to potential fire hazards, emphasizing the need for thorough knowledge and precautions. Instead of DIY, it is recommended to look for standard products that utilize similar batteries, such as used scooters or e-bikes, which could benefit from new batteries. Safety remains a primary concern throughout the discussion.
TechDIYaspirant
Messages
12
Reaction score
3
TL;DR Summary
I have two 1000w 48v lithium ion batteries that are sitting unused and want to put them to use.
I'm looking for a way to use these batteries that is safe and also useful. I've looked into buy inverters to turn them into portable battery packs but am out of my depth and don't want to create a device with serious potential fire hazards without thoroughly understanding the ins and outs and proper precautions.

The batteries were previously used to power the front hub motor or a 29" bicycle wheel used on a pedicab/cycle rickshaw.

I also have bike and a non-working moped that I've thought might make good projects at some point for electical conversion but those are both on the more advanced side. Also thought of expanding the capacity of an UPS system for my PC but don't really know where to start.

Any other good ideas about how to put these to use or suggestions on how to approach any of the above?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Welcome to PF.

AFAIK, batteries aren't usually rated in their power output. More common is the output voltage (which you list as 48V) and Energy storage capacity (usually in Amp*hours or milliAmp*hours). Do your batteries list anything like that? What are the manufacturer and model number?
 
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B081STBZ8F/?tag=pfamazon01-20

I'm pretty sure this is the model I have. at least the dimensions and wrapping are identical (though the connections differ slightly. I'm guessing they are 20ah based on this.
 
Well, to be frank, some of the other Mentors and I are not comfortable suggesting DIY projects for a beginner and moderate size Li-Ion batteries. A quick Googe Images search for Li-Ion battery fire returns way too many hits:

https://www.google.com/search?q=Li-...EAoAECoAEBqgELZ3dzLXdpei1pbWewAQo&sclient=img

Instead, try to find standard products that use this battery. Maybe you can find some used scooters or e-bikes or whatever that could benefit from fresh batteries.

Thread is closed for now. Please stay safe.
 
  • Like
Likes anorlunda, Rive and hutchphd
Some time ago I posted this Raspberry PI DIY Mass Spec using Raman Scattering. It's was something of a cumbersome project though, needing a 3D printer and special heat-resistant plastic giving of carcinogenic fumes during printing. To be blunt it was also not very mobile and interpreting the results was further cumbersome Recently though, I've been told that Arduino, and it's various sensor packages, has matured to the point where it's a usable alternative. Now I realize that a cigarette...
Thread 'Nonlinear rubberband type thing - "k" dropping fast as it is stretched'
What materials can I try in order to get a curve of displacement versus force that looks somewhat like this.. (of course, there would be a small kink around the origin where the ends of the rubberband are closer together than its length, which is not shown here). I am looking for something that will last at least 100 stretch cycles and is not messy, so for example liquid based colloidal stuff won't be suitable. Is there something one can whip up using silicone and some additive, say? Or...
Back
Top