Why Keeping Batteries and Drone Cool is Important
When batteries and drones get too hot, the drone can initiate a “Force Landing.” A forced landing can potentially cause damage as the drone will land in its current location without any override option available. Some error messages that can accompany high temperatures are:
“Battery Connector Overheated. Replace Battery and clean or replace battery interface board on aircraft” and
“Cable Distribution Board Power Connector Overheated”
“Battery Voltage Too High”
“Battery Output Too High"
Solutions to Keep Battery Cooled
The best way to keep the battery cool is to use an Air Conditioner to blow cool air around the batteries to keep their temperatures down
Fans can also help but in high heat and humidity sometimes fans alone are not enough
The goal is to cool the batteries down, NOT to freeze them, do NOT use ice as a method to cool the batteries, this will make them swell
Also, do NOT submerge the batteries in water, this will cause permeant damage
You want the batteries to have an internal temp around 80-90°F when going into the drone, at this initial temp, the batteries normally exit the drone at around 115-125° F. Internal temps above 140 degrees have been known to cause auto landings
Have batteries in rotation so that more than just 2 batteries are being used
Tip: Keeping batteries cool not only helps prevent forced landings but also extends their lifespan.
How to Check Internal Battery Temp
Checking battery temperature periodically can help you understand how well you are on your heat management techniques.
To check the internal battery temp:
Click on the gear icon on the top right-hand corner.
Click on the battery category.
Now you can see the internal battery temperature, remember you want to keep this below 125°F.
Equipment Failures That Lead to Increased Battery Temperatures
Split Terminal
Make sure the battery terminals on the drone are clean and in good condition, having bad terminals will increase the temperature of the power distribution board and can lead to failure or a “split” terminal. A split terminal can damage the terminals located on the battery.
Worn Out Battery Buckle
Ensure the battery "clicks" into place when inserting it into the drone; a loose battery increases the risk of a poor connection and overheating. If you do not hear a click, make sure the black gaskets around the battery clip on the drone isn’t popped up. A worn out “Battery Buckle” (shown below) on the battery can also cause the battery to not “click”.
How to Keep Drone Cool
Props
You don't want to overwork the drone. Chipped up or loose props will decrease the aerodynamic efficiency and cause the motors to work harder, using props in good shape will help decrease the temperature of the whole electronic system.
ESCs and Motors
Keep the motors, ESCs and Heat sinks clean, if they are dirty, they will not dissipate heat as efficiently. ESCs and motors can be rinsed off with water during the day to help decrease their temperature. Check motor bearings by spinning the motors, if they “catch” or are hard to spin, that motor might be bad.