Looking for entry level DIY ideas

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around safe and useful DIY projects involving previously used lithium-ion batteries, specifically those from a bicycle hub motor. Participants explore potential applications, safety concerns, and the challenges of working with such batteries.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses interest in safely repurposing lithium-ion batteries and seeks project ideas, mentioning potential uses like portable battery packs, electrical conversion of a bike or moped, and expanding a UPS system.
  • Another participant notes that batteries are typically rated by output voltage and energy storage capacity, asking for specific details about the batteries in question.
  • A third participant provides a link to a product that resembles the batteries being discussed, suggesting they might be around 20Ah based on dimensions and wrapping.
  • A later reply raises safety concerns about suggesting DIY projects for beginners with moderate-sized lithium-ion batteries, citing the risks of battery fires and recommending finding standard products that utilize similar batteries instead.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of safety when working with lithium-ion batteries, but there is no consensus on specific project ideas or approaches for repurposing the batteries.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the specific ratings and characteristics of the batteries, and there is a lack of detailed information regarding safe DIY practices for beginners.

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TL;DR
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?
 
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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?
 
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.
 
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