Sony VTC5 Battery Review
These cells were acquired to test through generous donations, and I am grateful for the support. To avoid any confusion with eGo-type batteries, I use the term "cell" here to refer to individual units such as 18650, 26650, etc.
Disclaimer
The statements, conclusions, and recommendations I present based on these tests reflect my opinion. It is highly advisable to thoroughly research any battery pack you are considering before purchasing.
Testing cells at their maximum limits poses significant risks and should never, under any circumstances, be attempted by individuals who have not extensively studied the associated dangers and how to mitigate them.
A note regarding current ratings and my testing
If the cell displays only one current rating number or explicitly states "max discharging current," it can be inferred that the company claims the cell can handle discharging at that specific current level in any manner, including continuous discharge.
Why Sony VTC5 Battery is Popular
The Sony VTC5 battery is an exceptional 20A continuous cell that surpasses its 2500mAh rated capacity and aligns with its nominal capacity of 2600mAh. It was procured and exhibited an appearance and performance identical to genuine Sony VTC5 batteries. The VTC5 delivers hits as powerful as the Samsung 25R5 while operating at slightly cooler temperatures. Due to its higher capacity, the VTC5 lasts longer than the 25R before requiring recharging.
Knowing the potential risks is essential when operating your mod at higher pulsed current levels. These tests demonstrate the cell's performance at these levels. If the mod is used at such levels, there is a risk of overheating and potential venting of the vape battery in case of a malfunction or accidental button press on your mechanical mod.
Sony VTC5 18650 2600mAh 20A Battery Review
At a continuous discharge rate of 10A, the cell delivered an impressive capacity of approximately 2480mAh, surpassing its 2500mAh rating. Consequently, I have confidently rated this cell at 2600mAh. This rating aligns with the nominal capacity of the Sony VTC5 battery, similar to the Sony VTC4 battery, and my findings consistently support this assessment.
- The temperature at 15A is continuous and was recorded at 68°C, significantly below the average temperature for a cell operating at its constant discharge rating (CDR).
- At 20A continuous, the temperature rose to 82°C, reaching the upper limit of the average temperature for a cell operating at its CDR.
- During 25A continuous discharge, the temperature reached 96°C, significantly exceeding the average temperature for a cell operating at its CDR.
- At 30A continuous, the temperature rose to 107°C, which is excessively high and far beyond my 100°C safety limit. Setting this current level as the CDR would be inappropriate.
- At the specified 35A continuous discharge, the temperature rose to 116°C, significantly surpassing my safety limit of 100°C.
I am establishing a CDR of 20A for this battery cell since its operating temperature at this current level is at the upper limit of the average for a cell operating at its CDR. While using any cell near its maximum rated current level causes damage, I expect this cell to exhibit a decent cycle life at 20A continuous.
Pulsed discharges have been included in the tests; however, I still need to define pass/fail criteria for pulse testing. The shots were conducted with a 5-second on/30-second off cycle, down to 2.5V. One chart presents the complete discharge at each level, while the other chart focuses on the initial 5 minutes to facilitate observation of voltage sag at different current levels.
