Best Practice for use of NiMH cells.
Equalise cells before charging if they have been stored (with charge) for more than 2/3 days. If any of the cells in the pack show that they do not need to be equalised (i.e. the light does not show or goes out straight away) then remove the pack from the equaliser and charge for a short period (approx. 5 mins. should be adequate). Then carry out the equalising process.
Never exceed the manufacturers recommended fast charge rate. This should be 1C max., even if the manufacturer states higher. (C being rate of charge based on capacity of the cell, e.g. a 4200 mAh cell = 4.2 amps)
Disregard any charge rate recommendations by the 'matcher' if it is more than 1C.
Use a maximum Delta-Peak setting of 3mV per cell (6-cell pack = 3mV x 6 = 0.018V).
Never repeak cells after main charge.
Use a temperature cut-out as an additional safety feature set at 42 deg. C max., located on the hottest cell (usually middle cell). If charging on a cold day then consider reducing this to around 35 deg. C.
Allow cells to fully cool to ambient temperature before further charges. Be aware the centre of the cell cools slower than the outer casing. Do not put them in water to cool down; in an emergency cover the cells with a damp/wet cloth if you have to quickly cool them.
Kirkcaldy Radio Control Car Club will always have a damp cloth for emergency use located at the end of pit tables during ALL club race meetings
Store cells with some charge (30/50%).
BRCA Electric Board 16.11.07