Kiribati container NiMH battery charging

How to charge NiMH nickel metal hydride batteries?

Unfortunately charging NiMH nickel metal hydride batteries is not as easy to achieve compared to other types of cell or battery. The NiMH cells, like NiCds require charging using a constant current. The rate of charge is normally specified on the case of the cell and this rate should not be exceeded.

Do NiMH batteries overcharge?

As a result, NiMH batteries have high tendency to overcharge, especially when relying solely on stopping voltage or current as the cut-off mechanism. Proper charging of NiMH batteries is critical to maximize battery capacity and optimize battery performance in various products.

How long does it take a NiMH battery to charge?

Calculate how long to leave the battery on the charger with (C x 1.2) ÷ C-rate. Plug the battery’s capacity into the equation and multiply it by 1.2, or 120%, since NiMH batteries require more power to charge than what they output. Then divide that answer by the charger’s C-rate to find out how long it will take for your battery to fully charge.

Can NiMH batteries be trickle charged?

As NiMH batteries are intolerant to overcharge, trickle charging tem has to be undertaken with care. While NiCd batteries may be trickle charged at a rate of around 0.1C, this is considered too high for NiMH batteries and it is generally accepted that for most NiMH batteries trickle charging should be accomplished at a rate of about 0.05C.