PowerCap ip battery / cell replacement

[flintandsteel]

I recently bought a second hand PowerCap ip as an affordable intro into using a much needed respirator.
I was diagnosed with COPD (damaged lungs) and while I've used those tight fitting muzzle type masks with filters they have limitations, particularly as regards long term comfort or wearing glasses.

The battery on the PC ip is the 8hr type but I find that JSP no longer do this particular battery pack.

I read somewhere on this site (can't find it now) about renewing battery cells.
The battery works ok, but maybe only about 4 hours instead of 8, it's a bit tired. Also if on charge (not quick) then I'm without a respirator in the meantime.

Does anyone have advice on replacing the battery cells or rigging a compatible power supply?

 

[SimonT]

If you youtube it theres loads of videos on replacing battery cells, ive done it myself on drill batteries before now

 

[flintandsteel]

Right
I was hoping with the long discussion I'd previously found that someone might have done one of these.

 

[chipmunk]

My old Powercap wasn't rechargeable and came with a battery box for replaceable batteries and I use rechargeable C cells in it.

I'm sure you could use one of these...
http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/4-c-battery-box-hf95d

and an in-line switch in place of your existing battery box and have one set of cells in and and one set on-charge.
High power C-cells here...
http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/atc-nimh-high-capacity-rechargeable-3900mah-c-batteries-2-pack-n64kq
You might want to put them in a box with a new connector but it shouldn't be too hard to do.

or alternatively pull your existing battery box apart and replace the cells using the right sizes from here...
http://www.maplin.co.uk/c/batteries-and-power/rechargeable-batteries

HTH
Jon

 

[Dalboy]

What voltage does the cap run on. each battery is normally 1.2volts

 

[flintandsteel]

The charger is rated 6v, 350ma, 2.1va
Yes if I could get a connector to match, the idea of rigging a new back up pack makes a lot of sense.

Must say I quite like the setup. Light and comfortable. Can wear my specs and while there's a little fan noise (not much) you can't hear it when there's machinery going.