Protected vs Non-protected Li-ion Batteries

[LarryDFW]

The most inherent danger is overcharging, which, if your charger has built-in protection, there's minimal risk there.

Unprotected are fine really. Just be careful not to over discharge them or they won't work anymore.

I have used hundreds of #18650's over the years in UV flashlights I sold.

I have found that the "chinese" batteries fail very quickly (protected & unprotected).
See FireMyLaser's comments above on protection circuits not working.

I switched to "brand name" UL tested batteries, and failures dropped by a factor of ten.

The UL 1642 testing is rigorous, testing for shorts, overcharging, heat cycles, pressure cycles, etc.

I am confident in Sanyo, LG, Samsung & Sony #18650 batteries.

They are the top quality manufacturers in the world.

I have abused many in RC trucks, and never even had one battery vent.
(Strictly for testing purposes, of course)

Larry DFW

 

[Scottyzedinosaur]

hey guys, i hate to ask, cause its such a noob question. and i plan on buying a charger from lighthound if the one i have isnt good enough.
but, i have a rayfoss charger. and the LED indicator turns red when the battery is charging, and green when the battery is charged. the batteries get slightly warm when theyre charging (that is normal, correct?), but when the light turns green, they cool off. does that mean my charger has over charge protection? i have a bunch of laptop 18650s as well, id like to know if its safe to charge them in my charger. it takes FOREVER, so id also like to know the standard charging time.
thanks alot!
Scott