I want to buy some new Lipo for my Arducopter. The existing I am using is 3S 2200 20C.
I was thinking to go to 3S 2200 40C.
But using eCalc (see below), I did notice the hovering time for a quad is increased with only 0.1 min.
I am interested for hovering in principal (for aerial pictures) and not acrobatic.
Is worth to go with 40C (more expensive) or should I continue with new 20C?
I am well content with 2 x 3S 2200 20C in parallel, this is really a big difference.
Replies
It's also widely recognized that the C ratings for batteries are grossly inflated and should not be taken literally.
It's mostly useful as a comparison of two different batteries from the same vendor. Higher C rating has lower internal resistance, and might cost more, weigh more, have heavier wire gauge, or be better matched. Beyond that, I wouldn't assign any actual units. (I don't think they can actually run at max C discharge without damage.)
OK, thanks for all reply. I had under impression that C factor could increase the time, but I was wrong.
My battery is warm (normal) after 7-8 min of flying at 25 deg C, but never hot.
I will stay on 20C and for longer time I put 2 in parallel, or I will go for a higher MAh.
So eCalc was correct.
My copter hovers @ 17-24amp depending on weight. Flying aggressively, hard turns @ full throttle, rarely spikes above 35-40amp. So my max burst current draw is only 2/3 of the lipo's max continuous rating.
The closer your draw is to your C rating, the harder your lipos have to work. A V8(High C) motor is overkill if you're grocery shopping. But a V6(Low C) has to work so much harder when towing a trailer, or racing on the track. The lipos get hot fast.
Sounds to me that you're looking for a daily commuter.(AP) If a 2200 20C keeps you in the air, isn't too hot after flight, and performs to your satisfaction, a 44amp discharge is more than enough. However if they are getting hot, a higher C would help.
If you want longer flight times, you need bigger/more(parallel) batteries.