In September 2017, Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd. finalized the purchase of a lot of Sony’s battery operations, including the cells we use.
Murata branded VTC cells are starting to become available to us and this was a test of the Murata VTC4. I’m happy to say nothing has changed, the VTC4 is still a decent cell. It even has the twin “dimples” on top of the cell, just outside the top contact, that all 18650 Sony VTC cells had.
The two cells I tested delivered 2161mAh and 2164mAh at 420mAh (0.2C) down to 2.5V.
I do not have the Murata datasheet but Sony rated the VTC4 at 30A continuous. It reaches over 95°C at that discharge level though, in my tests and in their tech info document graphs, which is too high in my opinion. That sacrifices cycle life for a higher rating. At 23A this cell reaches the same average temperature most cells reach at their rating.
I am estimating this Murata’s ratings to be 23A continuous and 2100mAh.
Two cells were donated for the purposes of testing by IMRBatteries (http://www.imrbatteries.com). Thank you!
Ratings graphic: https://imgur.com/a/33ETRqs
Test report: https://bit.ly/2K4bGNp
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These tests only note the estimated ratings for these batteries at the time I tested them. Any battery that is not a genuine Samsung, Sony, LG, Panasonic, or Sanyo can change at any time! This is one of the hazards of using “rewrapped” batteries or batteries from other manufacturers so carefully research any battery you are considering using before purchasing.
Misusing or mishandling lithium-ion batteries can pose a SERIOUS RISK of personal injury or property damage. They are not meant to be used outside of a protected battery pack. Never exceed the battery’s continuous current rating and keep the plastic wrap and top insulating ring in perfect condition.
Any rating in my ratings tables can change at any time as different grade cells appear on the market, we get swamped with fakes, or new information becomes available to me. Please, never assume that the ratings in the tables are permanent and will never change! Always download the latest version before considering any cell purchase.
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