Description
Over the past several years, I’ve used many different cell holders for testing batteries. I’ve tried many options from the cheap leaf spring cell holders to expensive aluminum-framed universal cell holders, but none of them got everything right. So I designed my own to try and get as many things right as possible.
This is aimed at product designers looking to verify cells from a manufacturer, people hoping to expand battery lab testing channels while keeping costs low, or for people like me that just like getting their own accurate data without breaking the bank on proprietary cell holders from large organizations.
Features
- 4-wire contact for accurate voltage and internal resistance measurements
- Fixed position frame – don’t need to adjust every time you put a new cell size in
- Installation guides to center the cell before it is clamped in at the terminals
- Airflow channels through cell holder base for easier cooling without affecting adjacent cells (not shown in 3D Design for the printed version – using 0 top and bottom layers with hex infill)
- Single connector connection to test equipment – easily swap between equipment and cell holder configurations
- Push Release for spring-loaded cell contacts – don’t need to push on the cell when installing
Versions
- 5A 3D-Printed with PETG filament
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- Best for low-current, ambient temperature testing only. Ensure cells will not heat above 45C under applied loads
- Max temperature 45C
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- 5A With Push Release 3D-Printed with PETG filament
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- Includes a tab at the end that you push to release the spring loaded cell contacts for easier cell installation and removal
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- 15A made from fiberglass (PCB material)
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- Includes larger cell contacts, thicker 16AWG wires for current path and equivalent traces through PCBs
- Max temperature 90C
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Connectors
To connect to this cell holder, a connector with screw terminals is included. Supported wire gauge of the included connector is 12-24AWG.
When using screw terminals, please install wire ferrules on stranded wires to prevent accidental short circuits and loosening over time.
Connectors have 5.08mm pitch.
Additional connectors that fit the connector on the cell holder are available here: link
Compatible models also available from other connector manufacturers. These seem to fit based on the images and specs, but have not been verified. There may be issues with increased pull-out force, not clipping in correctly, etc.
- TE Connectivity 796634-4
- Amphenol TJ0451530000G
- Molex 0395300004
- Phoenix Contact 1757035
Dimensions
18650 3D Printed Version
Base: 150x40mm (push release adds 27mm when fully pushed down, total length required 177mm)
Height: 35mm (40mm with push release)
Mounting holes (M3): 138x31mm, 5mm depth
21700 3D Printed Version (5mm longer than 18650 version)
Base: 155x40mm (push release adds 27mm when fully pushed down, total length required 182mm)
Height: 35mm (40mm with push release)
Mounting holes (M3): 143x31mm, 5mm depth
