Samsung ICR18650-30B - Lithium-ion battery (3000 mAh, 4.35V)

The Samsung ICR18650-30B is a high-quality lithium-ion round cell in 18650 format. It was primarily developed as an industrial cell for laptop batteries and energy storage. The special feature of this cell is its chemistry, which has a final charge voltage of 4.35 Volt (instead of the usual 4.20 volts). Only when charged to this voltage does it reach its full capacity of 3000 mAh. It is an "Energy Cell" (designed for endurance) and not a "Power Cell" (not for extremely high currents).

Highlights at a glance

• High energy density: With nominal 3000 mAh this cell offers a very long runtime for applications with moderate power consumption, such as normal LED torches (under 1000 lumens), power banks or laptop battery packs.
• High-voltage technology (4.35V): This cell is designed for a higher end-of-charge voltage of 4,35V designed. This enables a higher energy yield compared to standard cells, but requires a compatible charger for full power.
• Unprotected industrial cell: This is a Flat-top Battery without integrated protection circuit (PCB). This makes the cell shorter (65 mm) and ideal for battery packs, but requires caution when handling (no short-circuit protection!).
• Moderate power output: The maximum discharge current is approx. 5.9 amps (2C). This is sufficient for standard applications, but not suitable for e-cigarettes (vaping) or high-performance torches in turbo mode.
• Brand quality from Samsung: Samsung SDI cells are characterised by very low series dispersion, high cycle stability and safety when handled correctly.

Important note on charging voltage

The ICR18650-30B is a 4.35V cell.

• Standard charger (4.2V): You can safely charge the cell in a standard Li-ion charger. However, the charger stops at 4.2 volts. The cell is then only charged to approx. 90% full (approx. 2700 mAh).
• Special charger (4.35V): To utilise the full 3000 mAh, you need a charger that can be switched to 4.35V (e.g. certain models from Xtar).

Features

FAQs about the Samsung ICR18650-30B

Can I use this battery in my e-cigarette?

No, better not. With a maximum discharge current of just under 6 amps, this battery is too weak for most modern vaporisers. If overloaded, the battery will become hot and, in the worst case scenario, will burn out. Use high-current cells (such as Samsung 25R or 30Q) for this purpose.

Will it fit in my torch?

Mechanically mostly yes (18650 format). Electrically only if the torch draws less than 6 amps (which is usually the case for torches up to approx. 1000 lumens). As it is a Flat top battery, some lamps require a small magnet on the positive pole or a spring in the lamp head to make contact.

What does "ICR" mean?

The identifier usually stands for a cathode from Lithium cobalt oxide. This chemistry offers a high capacity, but is somewhat more thermally sensitive than manganese (IMR) or hybrid (INR) cells. ICR cells should therefore never be overloaded.

Is it dangerous to use without a protective circuit?

If you know what you're doing, no. But: The battery switches itself off in the event of a short circuit or deep discharge not itself.

• Do not leave it loose in your trouser pocket with keys (risk of short circuit!).
• Do not discharge it below 2.75 volts, otherwise it will break.