Simple DIY Powerwall using $1 LG 18650 eBay Cells

[@darthvader8433]

For info, brass is an alloy of copper and zinc. It's electrical conductivity is about 28% that of copper. That means for a given current (Amps) and length the brass needs to have about 3.5 X the cross sectional area! Your battery systems are very interesting, but when you have high currents through brass you will lose quite a bit of energy through heat unless you take into account the need for a far greater size of conductor using brass. I can see that brass rod is very easy to source (easier than copper rod) but remember that you need to scale up the cross sectional area in relation to copper. This is important because if you are going to the trouble of collecting electricity, storing it, recovering it then converting it to AC, every inefficiency means you need more solar collection and more battery storage.

[@cruiser97eric1]

I would have used stripped copper wire instead of brass rod.

[@darthvader8433]

D'oh. Yes, good thinking.

[@robertrandolph6762]

What size copper wire would be recommended for the loads in this type of setup? I likely would have ditched the brass rods idea myself, but wouldn't know what size wire to use. I would assume that 14 gauge OFC wire would suffice, but perhaps my estimation isn't accurate?

[@larsonfam3861]

Robert Randolph of your trying to reach the electrical capacity of household wiring,.... then the equivalent materials would be my choice.

[@deg1647]

16mm is your household incomer some 25mm 16mm should be good unless u plan maxing

[@jay-rus4437]

The more I watch your videos the more I appreciate what you share with us. Ive been watching Will Prowse for quite some time now, but have only recently began to watch your vids. Will does a great job teaching how to design and build a solar system, then add learning from you on how to build battery packs and we will have a solid foundation from start to finish. Ive been struggling with the cost to build vs buy, especially considering SOK batteries. Super solid design, new cells, completely serviceable, heavy duty BMS, and $570 for a 100ah. It is also a US company that builds the batteries here as opposed to just being the middle man for a Chinese built batteries.

[@PatricksDIY]

12:41, The way I put mine together was I installed the "caps" on each cell individually, then i slid them into each other to make the pack.

[@cnielsen2006]

Used these for my electric bike battery (52v). Battled with similar issues but worked it out. The system works well and and I like that I don't have to heat up expensive 18650 cells. 1. For pressure fitting the caps to the cells simply do one row at a time and tap with 2x4 & soft mallot - Key to knowing when it was tight enough was using a single cell with caps in place as a reference. 2. The key for servicing bad cells is to rotate the caps on one end such that interlocks go in the same direction! That way you can easily separate the block at the nearest rows/cols, drop in a new cell, interlock to the blocks and reconnect only the nearest wiring. You'll notice that other videos show the tabs and slots of the edge connectors going in opposite directions on some edges of the finished battery assembly

[@DIZZYDAZZLER2011]

I commented before watching the complete video but this guy is speaking the absolute truth the vruzend kit is crap!

[@VoltageGoat]

My favorite part was that you were beat by the clips that didn't work for you. Kudos for including that in the video. Loved it.

[@MilitantPeaceist]

I would imagine if you capped each cell individually, made sure they are connected as a single cell & then interconnect them into the pack, it might keep those random cells in line.

[@jehugarcia]

+MilitantPeaceist good idea

[@LucasGarrow]

Or just send it back and get your money back. Too unreliable, and if there isn't sufficient surface contact, you risk overheating.

[@joepro3562]

I appreciate the effort you made to show us this product from India. It's not bad because it's Indian, it's bad because the manufacturer cut corners to earn a higher profit. I honestly wouldn't trust any cheap spring loaded connections on a bank of so many batteries/cells even if you did get it to work. One bad connection means the whole unit is down. Unless they're using a tried and true spring connection all you have to understand is how many times you've had to reset a battery to get something to work. Handling a connector with oily hands, dirty conditions and/or corrosion will cause a connection to go bad. It's no big deal if it's a TV remote, a watch or a flashlight, but for a whole house power backup where one bad connection could cause all your refrigerated food to spoil or your furnace to fail and all your plumbing to freeze.....

[@LasVegasVocalist]

I like the cell packs you made yourself with the Buss-Bar and Soldering. I personally love the battery packs you did some time ago and were huge. I know it took many hours to build but fortunately you only have to do it once.

[@donfletcher8853]

I really enjoy your feed. I'm a retired electrical engineer, so your topic is of great interest to me. I agree with Darth Vader that brass and high current don't mix well. Easiest thing to do is just get some solid copper wire, 14 gauge would do, go to 12 if you are cautious, strip any insulation off or just use the ground which is normally bare. Also a good idea to have your connection physically supported so that all the strength isn't just the solder joint. Keep up the good work. If I can be of assistance, let me know.

[@crispygaming6393]

Love Diy, it's awesome when anyone learns it, no matter what the qualification... I will say though, hats off to all the qualified Electrical Engineer's, it's a loooooong road, especially in the beginning.... 1st year study... I'm surprised I chose this field, I could have done anything at all, especially if you hate electric shocks like I do...xxx

[@JOHNMORIN100]

Hi I think your an exceptional person it is obvious that you care and are truly faithful to the cause of solar cars and self sufficiency We live in Milo Maine Milo has much cold weather I have 10 L16 battery's hooked up and configured for a 12 volt system my batteries are 12 years old I plan to make a new battery wall much like you have done we like how you take time and patience explaining everything thanks for all your good works and helps

[@polysquare]

The poor solar inverter is probably trying to track the maximum power point of it's input. Which for batteries with a simply-modeled constant internal resistance, would mean "enough amps to pull the battery down to half of it's open-circuit voltage" (Maximum power transfer theorem). It won't reach that power point since the batteries can supply much more than the inverter's sticker "1000W", but the inverter will peg itself at 100%, 100% of the time trying to reach it. Hopefully, the controller in it has reasonable power and temperature limiting. Interestingly, it's product page specifically says not to connect it's input to batteries.

[@jehugarcia]

+gWikiY yeah it will probably die pretty soon unless we can throttle it back to its continuous rating

[@jorgeruiz4970]

jehugarcia Hi Mr Garcia My name is Jorge Ruiz I just wonder where can I order some cells from you I. really appreciate it if I'll have a place to go and order them thanks if you can..

[@jorgeruiz4970]

jehugarcia I do have some 18650 from LG the pink ones what do think can we have more pinks From LG?

[@awo1fman]

I'm really glad you showed the Vruzend system. I was looking at those and tempted to buy some. But that's a serious design flaw to not have actual springs on the contacts to make sure they have enough give to bounce back and make a good connection.

[@saulgonzalez76]

hey Jehu, i did had a hard time to get this as well but i did got to actually get them working. what i did instead of making the hole 5 x 10 configuration i did them 9 by 9 or a small portion of them untill i had the hole pack that i need and then put the small packs to make a bigger one, hopefully i did explain my self., it is hard to get them into place at first but they will. GREAT VIDEOS, YOU INSPIRE A LOT OF US ! KEEP'EM COMMING !!!

[@zippytechnologies]

And this is why we train for years in the military as electronics technicians... Lots to learn...

[@flitsies]

What about if you only did one line of cells at a time with that quick connect system, make sure each line of connectors work before moving onto the next line.

[@DNash-bl4do]

I like that you let us see what doesn't work. Being so ADD, doing it wrong seems to be the best way for me to learn.. Best lessons are my mistakes.

[@TheJunkyardgenius]

Hey jehu love the videos. I live in Scotland and I'm making many changes to the way I live. I thought about solar and turbines on my property, electric cars and a tesla power wall or diy version like yours. my experience gives me the confidence to do most things myself but I hit upon an idea. With solar or wind we have 2 options, grid tie or battery storage, but there is another option to all of this. now where I live it's free to charge your electric car, the government is trying reduce its carbon footprint so they the local councils have been installing chargers free to use all over the cities. so say I bought a new Nissan leaf with a 30kwh battery pack. now I only drives about 10 miles a day so most of my pack is still charged after my days driving. I thought why don't I use my car as my home power. I typically use about 5kwh energy in my home over 24 hrs which I know is not a lot but we don't need ac and most things in the house are energy efficient appliences, lights etc. I could plug my car into an inverter and power my home for several days until i need to charge my car up again for free. so my fuel costs are zero but also my home electrical costs are free too (sticking it to big energy companies that have been robbing us for years). what do you think of my plan and can you see any flaws or issues I have missed?

[@stephenspreckley8219]

Go for it laddie! While you're at it, you can charge up a wee battery pack at your home from the car so there's power there when the car's away on the low road, or the high road. Lol

[@Zebsy]

+Stephen Spreckley Sounds like a great plan!

[@lordovravens]

"sticking it to big energy companies that have been robbing us for years" by using elctricity that will be paid to those companies by the taxpayers.

[@magicmavis]

You're not really sticking it to the energy company, because they still get paid for the energy you will be using. No, you'll be sticking it to the council. Actually, you'll be sticking it to everyone in that area who pays their Council Tax, who pays the council energy bill, which will include your usage.

[@deg1647]

jeeez if the world worked like that no one get anywhere... brilliant idea

[@craigdavies614]

I have bolted the Vruzend kit together,see the diy18650 battery kit threads on Endless Speed and pedelecs forums.I cut the posts that surround the bolt in half to make room.Because of the lack of spring I'm thinking of replacing the spring and bolts with brass bolts.

[@robxavier]

I can't believe that someone actually gives your videos negative ratings. Instead of giving positive feedback or adding something that can make your project easier.

[@ahaveland]

They are likely bots and not humans. Every video has a few regardless of quality.

[@lasersbee]

rob xavier... The Dislikes are no doubt from people who don't understand the video and is way over their little heads....

[@FireballXL55]

Yes Mark Williams and most likley you have at least 1 in your house very often left on a bed or soft furnishings and do you leave that out in the garden when you are not using it.

[@robxavier]

FireballXL55 i keep forgetting that everyone who has no clue about safety is watching too....lol...use your own common sense folks. always add heat sinks or fire proof casing or walls.

[@fidelcatsro6948]

ungrateful cats !!

[@freetrailer4poor]

If you get a 10A-30A 36V-48V converter you can use the batteries with a regular 12V, 24V and maybe even 48V inverter. Adam Welch shows another way to use them 7s4p. Grid-tie inverters are not suppose to be used with batteries?

[@thomashardin911]

For the VRUZEND kit, try to assemble 10 10 cell sets, then wire them together... would that help me to not have the "contact problem" that you had when assembling a full 100 cell set?

[@brettoberry3586]

Jehu: Your bus is the boss! Appreciate that you share your skills...

[@peterattigan8160]

put a top and bottom on 1 battery at a time then link them together

[@jehugarcia]

+Pete Rattigan Yeah I'll try that

[@RoccosModernLifestyle]

My thoughts as well!

[@randybutera7059]

YES, I was screaming: Making smaller sub-assemblies is what the manufacturer and every other KZbin video shows

[@sieve5]

+jehugarcia Please do a quick video explaining what you guys are talking about... Learning how electronics work so I want to see exactly what you are talking about.

[@peterattigan8160]

Sieve5 what we are talking about is simply assemble one battery with the caps make sure it has connections on both sides then do another and clip them together then another and so on and so on till the whole pack is built. And if you want to learn about electronics www.ISCET.org is an exeunt resource. I have a little pull with them.

[@thecombatengineer7069]

What up Jehu...I'm late to the party but finally got some LG BMS boards. I'm doing a full inspection of them and I'll find their limits and a safe way for all of us to use them in our builds. Check out the videos and if you have any specific load tests you'd like to see, comment them in. Thanks for all the work you've done and the progress you've made for the DIY 18650 movement!

[@ahaveland]

Pity that the 'quick' interconnect frame idea didn't work out, but I'd still go with soldering every time for reliability. Small neodymium magnets may be useful as another method of quick connection, but would be more expensive than would be worth it. Also working with so many magnets in close proximity could get chaotic - like herding cats! I use hard drive magnets to connect groups of cells together for bulk charging before and after measuring capacity with an Opus, and for that they work well.

[@applefanXXX]

Keep in mind that the coating on the magnets is very thin and may not be able to handle the sustained high current draw from these batteries.

[@ahaveland]

Good point, but although the skin may be thin, it is also wide and the body of the magnet conducts, otherwise it wouldn't have been able to be electroplated. It's not a problem for charging currents of a few amps. Edit: also, if the magnet overheats it'll demagnetize and probably disconnect, a win-win!

[@Poepad]

The reason for the quick assembly is solder the batteries is a bad idea. It shortens their life. If you look online, J, should have done them in rows 5 at a time.

[@tomsims6237]

2 problems I saw the springs were any good second issue is the shape of each connector was slightly off so that some of your batteries were cocked at an angle amplifying the spring issue if the connectors were in the shape of a Z to allow a series type of connection to be made without wires that would be nice and this would still allow for any shape as you could connect at any 90 degree point then just need wires for the end point and parallel connections

[@freetrailer4poor]

I forgot to mention this is a great video as it gives a warning to a product that must work 100% of the time. If you build a battery that fails to make connection, you can get a unbalanced cell and not only will it put a lot of pressure on the bms it could cause a fire or explosion.

[@ALOHAAK]

Aloha from Hawaii blessed to have found your channel. This is life changing.

[@andrepacheco6067]

Wow man you should be a shop teacher! I would never miss a class! Seriously! Converted VW, awesome idea!

[@TomWolf1974]

Jehu, here is Micah demonstrating the VRUZEND kit.

[@longdang3991]

I love the idea of just connecting all these batteries as is in parallel and using a 36volt inverter. However, I'm having a hard time finding quality inverters that can power full house (greater than 5000watts continuous). There are many good solar chargers that can charge at 36 volts, but virtually no big inverters that take 36vdc input. I was only able to find AIMS 5000watt at 36vdc, but am wary of a Chinese inverter for full house.

[@carlostorrez260]

Long Dang did you figure out a inverter yet? I bought an AIMs but it was 12v not 36 volt so I can’t return!

[@MikeGrayM70]

Maybe VRUZEND can take your feedback an make a better version 2. I have Micah's book on my reading list! :)

[@richardjohnson3802]

When I parallel batteries I connect all + and all - the same as you. The difference is I connect my positive terminal on the the first packs rail and my negative terminal on the last packs rail. The reason is, I realized during charging and load the first battery in the string was getting taxed more than the last. When I rewired it, it balanced the load equally across all packs.

[@autopedro2]

Great video Jehu. Your traditional battery pack system, soldering them toguether seems like the best way. Thanks for shearing.

[@regularguy8110]

Bumped into something similar in $ store flashlights for the fishing box. The contact tab is cheap metal and no real spring tension. A shim under the tab keeps it in contact but on a volume scale would take way to much time. Good video.

[@ahmedsamipc]

Your right jehu .... I bought like these kits and I face the same problem in addition difficult connection of each cell holder individually. I already email them but they ignored my suggestions. I have new idea about these old black cell holder and I want your opinion? If you can help me to develop new method to how connect cell each other without soldering and welding.

[@Armand79th]

Ahmed Sami, not worth the effort.. Soldering with individual fuses is still the best method and has zero impact on battery life.

[@hacenezioune5720]

Ah, by the way thanks for the book I just got it and read half of it already.. really amazing, a treasure! Thanks again.

[@xyzbruh8086]

You should try doing each sell individually and checking it before you put them all together

[@zvpunry1971]

Checking would require to make sure that there is not only a connection, but also that the contact resistance of that connection is low. That checking would require you to put a significant amount of current through it. And if it has a low contact resistance at the time you checked it, it doesn't mean that it stays low. Corrosion, vibration and what else can influence that. And when the contact resistance isn't low, it will heat up under load and that will further degrade the bad connection. I wouldn't trust that system! I would trust good spring-loaded contacts only for applications that don't have to deal with high currents or high voltages. Everything else should have permanent connections (screw terminals, spot-welded or soldered connections).

[@jasondutchman6736]

I thought that at first, but the problem with that, is considering how tight they fit together, aligning them so they would connect would be a nightmare and could cause them to loosen up and lose contact.

[@CookieManCookies]

That wouldn't work, as he said. The springs are not springy, they bend inward and stop connecting during the build. The springs need to be replaced with something less bendable.

[@AlamBarzakh99]

Cheap springs used, it would cause problems within near future

[@bcmasur]

aluminum duct tape and disc magnets, perhaps 8mm x 3mm size, I think that works great. No soldering ever needed, reusable, cheap... The magnets can lose magnetism if passing too much current so make sure your distribution is good.

[@FroztiProductions]

I like the solder method but what if a middle cell goes out do I just cry? Lol

[@eptothefrep]

@Lawrence Landen @Cairo Tristan Weird how you both joined KZbin at the same time.

[@haciendadad]

FYI, there is a new VRUZEND Kit 2.1 that uses bolts exactly as Jehu suggested.

[@richardbennington6289]

OK, These are fun to watch. HOWEVER, THIS IS DANGEROUS! I'm an electronics engineer. PLEASE DON'T do what this guy is doing, unless you know how to solder, design with proper wire sizes and insulation, fusing, prevent explosions in batteries from burning your house, and all the rest. There are SO many safety things wrong here to even start!

[@kevincai96]

Here's some tips for all you "experts" who think you know better than electrical engineers: 1. Don't solder lithium cells, spot weld. Heat damages lithium cells 2. Always individually fuse packs! Or expect a housefire... 3. Don't connect batteries to an MPPT inverter without some form of current limiting (MPPT is meant for solar direct connections) 4. Don't use power rails that are close enough to arc 5. Don't go without a BMS. Easy way to have cells out of balance and overcharge/undercharge due to internal resistance being different across individual cells 6. Don't charge at higher than what the packs can handle

[@SgtRudySmith31bRet]

Richard do you have a video on how to do this properly?

[@Ecoenergy]

The tabs on the Indian knock offs are supposed to sprung loaded, I have used something similar from a German company a couple of years ago for specific NiMh cells and they worked a dream. there was about 10mm of travel on the springs.

[@LasVegasVocalist]

Something else to note with your Grid-Tie unit: If you plug that into a wall outlet in your house and you have a smart meter installed on your house's power box, the power company will know that you are back-feeding power into the grid and may send you a letter. On some meters, they won't know unless you are generating more power than you are using and truly back-feeding power to the grid. So size your systems to just supplement your power needs. I''m not sure how a real PowerWall works but I'd imagine that it has an "Islanding" feature that in the event mains power fails the powerwall also shuts off and will NOT feed power to the house or connected load.

[@jehugarcia]

Its my understanding these grid tie units have that built in, if the grid goes off the inverter goes off, i gotta test that.

[@tr1hollywood]

LasVegasVocalist from my understanding that's correct all grid tie inverters shut off if they main goes down. Which kills it for my idea unless I mod it with a main shutoff befor the meter.

[@tonyb.4824]

Most places will not allow you to have a disconnect before the meter. There is a point of demarcation that the utility will say that you are responsible for everything after this point, usually the down-stream side of the meter. With smart meters, they do not want power interrupted to "their meter" unless it is by them. Those power lines can also communicate at a freq much higher than the 60 hz power.

[@tr1hollywood]

Oh sorry I was meaning befor the meter meaning the power I make befor it hits the meter then the main not between the main and the meter.

[@tomsims6237]

to put solar power into the system before the meter they would love that then you get billed for your own solar power and they get free power from you and do not see you ever producing it that seems like a win win for the electric company the key is rather the meter is counting that power and no it should not count any power produced by you as you use rather its solar or a bedini motor unless its fed back into the system then they have to pay you for the power that you put back in how ever if you want to have an off grid solar power system you should be allowed to do so

[@NYangryguy]

I love that little mpt 7210a I have one on my diy lifepo4 solar generator I can charge up a variety of different voltage batteries with it and 2-12v panels in series. Obnoxiously loud though.

[@MikesDIYTeslaPowerwall]

I never liked the VRUZEND idea for two reasons, 1: how to do you fuse the cells because looking at the unit they are directly connected together which is unsafe and 2: the cost is alot higher vs the normaly way.

[@nickflynn666]

You bolt the connections on in the configuration you want. You can use fuse wire to give a tesla style individual cell fuses. Nothing is directly connected.

[@richardrice1081]

If you are stuck with those, maybe bore out the plastic with a Dremel to increase the diameter of the hole by even 1 mm so its not so tight so that the batteries have a little bit of movement then when you put the packs together the spring has a chance to work since the battery can now actually move. Just a thought and it might be an easy fix for you.

[@jasonflt]

not a $1 anymore more like $1099.99. Em i missing something here for about the $1 ebay batteries? please let me know

[@Waltkat]

Good idea with the battery power strip. I have a suggestion; instead of using brass rods, which are expensive and not very good at conducting electricity - use 12 or 14 gauge copper bus wire. Available at any Home Depot, Lowes, Orchard Supply, or electrical supply house. About the VRUZEND battery system; try assembling a 5-cell (or however needed) one row at a time then joining each individual block of 5-cells together to whatever width needed.

[@JOHNDANIEL1]

Wanna know how to increase your range with a cheap adaptation? replace all real glass with 1/8" Plexi on the VW

[@OffGridOverLander]

That is both illegal and unsafe for road use

[@thomashowl6488]

I don't doubt about unsafe, but definitely illegal.

[@Wheelieking619]

Lexan is a better choice ,looks like plexy but is super tough

[@ChrisJ85]

You've gained a new fan in me! I'm interested in how to make this a reality for my home!!

[@RM-hq5ph]

that kit may be for bare cells. no wraps

[@MrNickmand]

HyperGro DWC the co creater ebikeschool.com showed it of with wrapped cells

[@nicholasbodley2238]

Nicholas Pihl Word missing? "showed it of" what? Puzzled...

[@ssdd5614]

Nicholas Bodley off not of

[@thespasticmindofastonedguy3266]

HyperGro DWC that was my thought. Remove the shrouds on the cells.

[@C-13770]

rick epocnt they work fine with the covers. You have to put them togeahter one at a time.

[@DavidJJJ]

Interesting, can you please try Battery Blocs? I have some and they work really well.

[@dorsai]

Indian product looks like a good approach, just poor material/quality control.

[@Onlyindianpj]

Andrew Van Der Plaats Different assembly approach is required

[@marktheamerican4162]

Great Job showing us who Follow you’re wisdom in electronics in real time issues that arise ! If you get stumped we’d be really lost !

[@jd-uo8hc]

I find it intriguing that you state your holding a pack you just made and it has cells that are not making contact and it requires taking apart to fix.... yet.... YOU DON'T TAKE IT APART. YOU JUST HOLD IT AND SAY HOW ITS NOT WORTH IT.... remember that time you made an error and PayPal held your customers funds....

[@takiuddin93]

Great setup tutorial. Can you please also show how to charge Li-ion with BMS?. Like what should be my safe input current?

[@patphillips4080]

There is an updated version of the vruz connectors, 2.0, available that addresses the non contact issue

[@zenvent]

For $1100 I can get 50 of these packs, 4.4Ah at 36v. In a perfect world each pack is roughly 4.4*36/1000 = 0.1584 kwh. Multiply by 50 and we get 7.92kWh of power (ignoring conversion to ac). The average US house uses somewhere between 30-50kWh of energy per day, so to cover 'most' of my power needs I'd want 4x the amount of cells, which then gets me to 31.68kWh for $4400, just for the batteries mind you. Two Tesla power walls would (28kWh) would run $11,700, so it seems this project is a fair bit cheaper, however I wonder if it's still worth it? After the labor, cost of installation, inverters and other parts... I wonder how far off the Tesla power wall actually is. Please correct me if I'm (or the math) are wrong, I really want to be convinced to go this route and kickstart my project. I currently have about 200 18650 cells and am considering the alternatives.

[@jehugarcia]

+Zii sounds right.

[@Deiphobuzz]

30 to 50kwh a day?! Jezus, average family homes here use less than 3000 a YEAR. thats less than 9kwh a day.

[@zenvent]

Deiphobuzz In case I forgot to mention I'm an American. Maybe we use more power than where you're from? I used government sources for my data. www.eia.gov/tools/faqs/faq.php?id=97&t=3

[@robertwittmer8116]

Zii a

[@twotone3070]

In the UK. Since 2011 I've been using on average, 9.5Kwh per day, but then when It's cold I put on sweater and when It's hot we just enjoy it. I'm not trying to change the environment by heating it up or cool it down.

[@rogerstarkey5390]

+Hypergro DWC Good suggestion! Jehu, try taking the wrap off some cells and see if they slide freely into the bracket!

[@SreehariVariar]

The one time something made in India featured in one of the vlogs I follow. :(

[@fidelcatsro6948]

and it failed!! tesla should open a factory in india and make electric marutis!!

[@bullguy112]

It failed but i appreciate jehugarcia for not complaining or insulting

[@SPharaoh]

The animals of India and Pakistan. Same people but HATE each other because the colonial England told them so over 100 years ago. I'm sick of their bullshit wars over nothing. Y'all don't feel embarrassed a little? 👏👏👏👏

[@BuiltByRik]

Great stuff mate. I want to do this one day and when I have learned enough I will. No hurry. Thanks for showing us and the advice. Rik

[@AliYassinToma]

1 dollar for a battery is soo expensive ... buy broken laptop batteries and grab ur voltmeter and start testing for i buy 10 dead laptop batteries for 1 dollar i tested them all balanced them buy soldering them to each other for like a week ... after 1 week they all balanced ... now im watching to see what i need to buy ... every laptop battery have 6 cells for me every laptop battery had 1 "not good" cell so 5×10=50 cells ...i might buy 10 more to have 100 cells

[@Slickasv]

Ali0The0King where do you buy these laptop batteries?

[@trwsandford]

Good tip on the book! Yes, I learn from reading... and having a printed reference is invaluable.

[@sinaiyicus]

They dropped the ball. didnt use spring steal.

[@fidelcatsro6948]

true!! never used proper tensioning spring, china will copy that and make a better one soon and sell it for a fraction of the price!

[@FelixRisingOriginal]

Chinese quality?

[@stephenspreckley8219]

Chinese quality, that's an oxymoron! Just like an "honest politician"

[@kkolkokli]

+hahn soar that's made in India LOL shitty Indian quality worst than Chinese

[@nicholashenton3913]

steel

[@JimmysTractor]

I've gotten the black plastic clips for 4.2 cents per cell buying 10 5X4 for $4.19. slightly more for 3X1 and 2X1is the highest buying 100 2X1 for $6.80. Even with brass rods in small retail packs you are not even close to 1/2 the cost of the springs that will likely short causing a very unbalanced pack. Take a grinder to the tabs and see if they are even nickel.

[@Deebz270]

The designers/manufacturers should use propper springs in each cell connector block. . But I agree with you, soldering is by far the most efficient and *safest* measure. Remember, a bad connection leads to poor current transfer, which generates *heat.*

[@donnorparty]

Awesome Channel! I would be interested to see a test of the voltage drop along that bus bar under a heavy load. I'm not sure if li-ion cells are as sensitive to charge imbalances as flooded lead acid in parallel strings.(most likely not) it would take longer cables but you could connect the load to opposing ends of the bus.

[@joshuawilder848]

Could you please show us how to add the additional batteries to make the 48v system you mentioned in another video? Would you connect both the negative and positive of the additional 4 cells of batteries to the negative side of the power strip you build in this video? An illustration you put up looks like that and I wanted to verify. Thank you.

[@dedan1]

I really wish i had this channel when I was a kid

[@shotokankaratedo6155]

Great book! Not liking white cap holder, but as you mentioned black cap holders better! Cheers

[@m_mitch]

The Vruzen video shows people putting them together in 4's or 6's. Then gently hammering a block of wood onto the top of each pack. Then assemble each 4 or 6 cell pack. That seemed to work easily and well.

[@7sonero7]

U have more patience than me ... after the first try I would have returned or thrown away..... valiant effort ... :)

[@adolfobatista6514]

Do you have a video on a step by step process of how you put the system together. Basically a video showing from step #1 to a finished product.

[@ProlificInvention]

Hey jehugarcia, what do you know about Ni/Fe batteries? They are also known as Edison batteries. In my opinion they are a far better solution than any lithium battery for home energy storage. They are ideal for solar and wind because of the amount of charge cycles they are capable of as well as safety over lithium batteries. Yes the volume is larger, but the benefit is a long lasting and rebuildable power source of any output requirement. Non polluting, we need American manufacturers to bring the price down as they are relatively inexpensive to produce. I like your videos and am a fan, thank you and keep making them.

[@MrNigel1340]

Fascinating video, have learned a lot watching you, what gauge is the fusible wire link please, regards Doc Cox

[@seanqwade]

Thank you so much for this video. Been wondering about those connectors, will not waste my money on them. You saved me some money and folks that save me money and or time are my favorite type of folk.The springs are made form a non spring metal, not properly heat treated, useless cheap wire. The E bike guy, the one that gave you the book, sells those connectors. He also did a video on them, I think those connectors will hurt his reputation and he does put out some good 411, sometimes. One thing I knew when I saw his video there would be no way I would use those in a situation that was kinetic, like E bike battery pack.Thought they may have some use in other situation that were static. Again thanks for saving me time and money. Also have you done a video on charging a power wall with generator. I thinking about this for RV or in a van (94 Doge extended high top), I do not think solar is the way to go there. Sure would like to hear your thoughts on this. Also I want to build a UPS to power my computers in the event of power outages. I want to keep it charged with household electric current. I have nothing against solar power, I live in an apartment complex. PS I am writing you from an old lap top 1.5 GHz CPU , one core and 4 GHz of ram and that's max out and Lumbutu, That OS kicks ass on old computers, it falls in to the category I call Dang, Double Dang. You know how you know you are an engineer by birth not necessary by training, numerous visit by zoning enforcement over a life time. My first visit I was 12, my last I was 64 and lots in between. Some were good, some were bad and some where Oh LA LA, I have access to all city equipment and operators of said equipment, naturally I did show them my appreciation. Have a blessed day, Sean PS nothing again code enforcement, I once live in Tennessee, OMG

[@mikejf4377]

I like the video, you did not give the link to the book that you showed for building the battery packs. Thanks for all your good information. Mike J. F

[@caseyl3631]

Love the channel, enjoy the effort and i don't mean to be a troll here but i don't get it. I was thinking the batteries would serve to power my house when the grid goes out, this deign will not do that. That grid tie inverter requires phase from the grid and will shut down when the grid goes out. its called "island effect" protection its for safety of line workers fixing the outage. if i cant operate without the grid i don't need the batteries, just hook the panels right to the inverter and save yourself the trouble. IF you want battery backup during grid outages, you NEED to disconnect from the grid or you might kill someone.

[@bwillan]

I saw the video for the plastic connectors, and the guy there build the cells in strips of 5 and the connected those strips to other strips of 5 to build your pack.

[@brannenthompson9662]

I've had an E-bike for a year and have collected 200 odd 18650 cells to make batteries , I have a question as my next projects a powerwall, can you plug an inverter into the mains supply or only run electrical items off the inverter? love the channel and I've found a briliant hobby. thanks

[@jehugarcia]

There are different types some you can others you can’t

[@StevenCastano]

Soooo... I'm getting started on 2 things. 1, a smaller portable power pack that is hopefully a little more versatile. As in, I'd like to be able to charge it in the car, with solar panels, pre-charge it from just a regular AC connection, etc... maybe make it fit in a toolbox like I've seen others do, even have some external connectors so I could maybe make one with all the chargers, inverters, etc... then have a few boxes as "expansion packs"... Then, I'd like to build a bigger one as a UPS/solar battery bank for my house... The question IS..... What's an optimal voltage? Should I disassemble these all and make them into 12v packs for more compatibility, or should I leave them at 36 like you've done and just find charges and inverters that will work on AC charge, step up converters, etc... and save a TON of time not having to disassemble and rebuild packs?? 12v would be easier, but I've heard with voltage drops you can't run the DC power lines very far, so 36v might be better. Maybe pairs of 2 36v in series for 70v? I don't know! What are your thoughts?!?!

[@getenlightened]

12v inverted requires more amps, so it's easier amp wise to invert from 36v. For this reason, I'm going to keep them at 36v.

[@KehindeAdeoya]

How do I get these batteries on eBay? I have tried searching but could not. Please help. Your tutorial is the best on powerwall

[@obsoletesuperman]

can you drill a tiny pilot hole in the middle of the plastic part, centered over the cell, the run a tiny machine screw to push it to contact the "spring" tab to the cell? once it's got contact, add some liquid electrical tape.

[@KetansaCreatesArt]

I think the side clips that attach each other have uneven inserting glitches, which all together are pulling out the contacts. Try filing the clips that go inside other heads slot, and make them all short.

[@DarkSideSixOfficial]

I think it is the solution, however, it's just the quality. The idea you mentioned with screws every 4 cells to tighten and even the pressure is good, but i think just better quality springs should solve the issue. Did you try putting the cells in a with a bit of room, and then when they're all together, tighten them onto the springs?

[@shawnr771]

as an added safety you should install in line fuses. Should an accident happen it would isolate various parts of the system

[@freeworld7680]

I hope you have a detailed DIY TUTORIAL SO EVERYONE CAN FOLLOW!! And that's the buyer comes next..,

[@traetuusplays8987]

Now you know in the future before doing this project with these materials you ordered. Pry all the springs out as far as they will come then insert the batteries so tension is kept along the entire travel distance when the battery is inserted

[@JimmysTractor]

looking back at the assembly video, I see that they are not supposed to be assembled all at once, but in rows. I take back what I said as far as bad connections. 2 things, I would not go over 5amp draw per cell because you are limited to the current the springs coil can carry and for me, the price is almost half what I pay for my cells.

[@EnlightenedSavage]

I think there's two things that you could do with that system. First remove the plastic wrap from the outside of the battery. I think that the extra room around it would allow the retainers to slide on the battery easier. Secondly i would also push each battery in individually instead of as a group.

[@KrowezOnline]

The other video's i've seen on this have all been positive, It's refreshing to see this side. I still think i'll be buying one kit just for testing. As I would prefer to avoid soldering.

[@spikekito8272]

Is there any info on the BMS? Data sheet / schematic/ or something? I would like to know what the max cell balancing current is? Also does the BMS disconnect the battery in case of short/open/high temp to prevent meltdown? If it has good specs I was going to use the pack as-is with the BMS.

[@loungelizard836]

thanks for the honest review. l was considering Vruzend. I think the product would be fine for small packs and low power apps.

[@epochdoc2259]

great info again. thanks for the heads up. for a self taught engineer, i still think that your a maddd genius. thanks again.

[@0xleomaybe]

hey mate. friend is over we were watching your video - had a good idea... why don't you use a cotton bud and apply (conductive) vaseline to lubricate the springs + ensure contact?

[@Verb130]

I love your DIY development in the use of batteries, but when choosing brass rods as a conductor, consider the following table: Material IACS (International Annealed Copper Standard) Ranking Metal % Conductivity. 1) Silver (Pure) 105% 2) Copper 100% 3) Gold (Pure) 70% 4) Aluminum 61% 5) Brass 28% 6) Zinc 27% 7) Nickel 22% 8) Iron (Pure) 17% 9) Tin 15% 10) Phosphor Bronze 15% 11) Steel (Stainless included) 3-15% 12) Lead (Pure) 7% 13) Nickel Aluminum Bronze 7% * Conductivity ratings are expressed as a relative measurement to copper. A 100% rating does not indicate no resistance. I think you'd be best using copper wire stripped from standard household 14/2 or 14/3 wire cable. After that consider maybe aluminium rod in lieu of brass rod since aluminum is much more conductive then brass. Some things to think about.

[@nickbelsaguy8836]

Can you do a video with more explaining on everything for like a beginner and have a full parts list

[@Research0digo]

For anyone just tuning in to DIY battery to electrical stuff; when Jehu says power from solar to battery to house, he mentions an inverter. You need one because batteries create DC current, and the current used in US buildings is AC. (direct vs alternating). Other country's use DC almost exclusively. When you go camping, or are traveling in an RV, everything runs off the battery or a generator, will be DC current. That's why you have to buy RV/camping appliances. An inverter takes you from battery to outlet. : )

[@cigomba]

I really appreciate this. I had no idea what that was exactly. And now that you've explained it it makes complete sense. I'm just getting into the electrical DIY hobby and it's awesome. Can't wait to start building my own stuff!

[@jakedjo]

if I have a 72 volt Li-Ion charger (20 series) can I charge these battery packs with 2 in series. It would still be 20 cells in series but I am wondering how the BMS boards will handle this.

[@jehugarcia]

Jake Stephens I say yes, some people say no, but I see no reason why not, other than maybe the voltage being double and stuff