Samsung Lithium-ion Batteries Declared Unsafe for Vaping Devices

Vaping brings relief to millions of people across the globe as it helps them to quit smoking, saves them money, and is generally an enjoyable experience. What some people tend to forget, however, is that coils need to be looked after.

Just like a car, they require maintenance and some vaping parts replacing, regular cleaning and users require some knowledge of how the products work to allow vaping devices to remain safe and usable.

Issues can arise when vapers use modified devices or parts not fit for purpose, so it’s best to stay clued up on not just your device, but vaping news.

Samsung’s Warning To 18650 Battery Users

Lithium-ion batteries from Samsung have now been listed on its website as “not intended” for use in e-cigarette devices. In fact, Samsung goes even further, suggesting that to do so would result in “fire or explosion”, causing “serious injury or property damage”. These batteries have been sold in error by vape wholesales and outlets for the best part of 2 years or more after the Samsung declaration as it was not well publicised.

While some may see this as a minor caution, it’s worth recalling the news stories that have surfaced in recent years, with 18650 batteries causing explosions and serious bodily harm. In some cases, non-genuine batteries were the culprits, but it’s worth bearing this risk in mind when choosing to use any lithium-ion battery.

The best 18650 batteries for vaping

Certain 18650 batteries are suitable for use in vape mods, like the Efest IMR 18650 available from Pure E-Liquids. With an impressive 2600mAh capacity, these batteries deliver excellent power to your device. It is compatible with most vape mod brands, but be sure to check each product listing before purchasing and thoroughly read the safety guidelines before using.

What To Do If You’ve Purchased A Samsung 18650 Battery

Many companies in the UK have sold these batteries without being made aware of the risks, including retailers like Amazon, but responsible vape companies have now made the decision to remove the battery from sale.

If you own a Samsung iNR18650-25R battery, we would recommend refraining from using this battery as per Samsung’s warning and dispose of the battery in an environmentally friendly way. Your local retailers may run battery take-back schemes, or you can visit your local recycling centre for safe disposal.

How To Use Lithium-Ion Batteries Safely

Despite Samsung’s warning about its specific battery, other brands of lithium-ion batteries such as Sony and LG may have a similar problem. According to Trading Standards EFEST is the only battery that Trading Standards has no known issue with, and is not investigating. If you recognise any of these symptoms, stop using your device immediately and quarantine the battery from any combustible materials, ideally putting it outside in soil.

• If your battery or its wrap is dented, discoloured, scratched or damaged in any way, do not use it.
• If you see smoke, leaking fluid or smell a foul odour.
• If the battery is hot to the touch.

If a rechargeable battery does catch fire, it’s recommended that you use a foam extinguisher, CO2, ABC dry chemical, powdered graphite, copper powder or soda (sodium carbonate), as you would extinguish other combustible fires.

When using lithium-ion batteries, it is important to be vigilant and stay safe:

• Always refer to the specific device instruction manual and charger instructions that came with your device and batteries. Keep this literature in a safe place for future reference.
• Do not use a different charger than the one that is specifically designed for your batteries.
• Ensure your batteries are inserted into the charger with the proper orientation, aligning the plus (+) and minus (-) terminals correctly.
• Do not leave lithium-ion batteries charging unattended. Supervision is required at all times and batteries must be taken off charge as soon as they are full. Do not leave charge batteries overnight.
• Charge batteries indoors, at room temperature.
• Do not cover lithium-ion batteries at any time.
• Always store and transport rechargeable batteries in a safe, non-conductive container.
• Ensure you properly dispose of all battery cells and chargers in accordance with local policies.

Why Do People Use Mods With Removable Batteries?

Vapers who have a penchant for cloud-chasing will be well-versed in the ways of removable batteries. Mods with inbuilt, rechargeable batteries produce great output and mean that you don’t have to always carry around a full spares and repairs kit with you.

Like any electronic device, these batteries will begin to deteriorate over time, despite how much you might care for them. This means that the devices themselves are disposable, which some vapers would prefer not to indulge in. Having a separate battery can give you higher performance and means that you simply need to replace your battery, not the whole device.