18650 Cells Bulk
I acquired these cells for the sole purpose of conducting tests. To avoid any confusion with eGo-type "batteries," I use the term "cell" here to refer to individual units such as 18350, 18650, 26650, and so on.
Although the test results provide concrete data, the conclusions and recommendations I draw from these tests are solely my subjective viewpoint based on my criteria for establishing a rating. It is highly recommended to conduct thorough research on any cell you are considering purchasing before making a final decision.
Attempting to test cells at their maximum limits is highly hazardous. It should never, under any circumstances, be attempted by individuals who have not extensively studied the associated dangers and methods for minimizing them.
18650 Battery Cells
If the cell displays only one current rating number or explicitly states "max discharging current," it can be assumed that the company is indicating that the cell can be discharged at that specific current level in any manner, including continuous discharge.
18650 Lithium Cells Conclusion
The Imren Battery is incredibly overrated and now utilizes a different cell with a rating of only 10A!
During my previous testing of this cell, I rated it at 17A, noting its resemblance to a lower-grade LG HG2. However, they are employing a Panasonic cell. While I don't have all the necessary compartments for a direct comparison, I have only observed the triangular top contact on a few Panasonics.
This Imren cell is one of the most exaggeratedly rated cells I have ever encountered and should not be used beyond 32W/10A. At its 40A rating, the voltage drops significantly and only delivers a few mAh before reaching 3.2V. For optimal performance, it is advisable to stay below 20W/6A.
Exceeding this limit will result in poor performance. If the mod malfunctions or accidental button presses while vaping at approximately 65W/20A, this battery can reach dangerously high temperatures (around 116°C) and potentially vent. My advice is to refrain from using it altogether.
Comments
- At 10A continuous, it achieved a capacity of 2807. This performance is disappointing for a 3200mAh cell at 10A, but relatively good for a 2900mAh cell. Therefore, I am rating this cell at 2900mAh.
- At 10A continuous, the temperature rose to 66°C, around the average temperature for a high-capacity cell operating at its constant discharge rating (CDR).
- At 15A continuous, the temperature rose to 92°C, an extremely high temperature indicating that we are operating well above its CDR.
- At 20A continuous, the temperature rose to 116°C, significantly exceeding my safety limit of 100°C. This indicates that it should not be used at this level in case of a mod malfunction or accidental button press.
I have included pulsed discharges, but I still need to establish pass/fail criteria for pulse testing. The shots were conducted with a 5-second on/30-second off cycle, down to 2.5V. One chart displays the complete discharge at each level, while the other chart zooms in to show the first 5 minutes, making it easier to observe the voltage sag at different current levels.