Here's a long shot, but you guys are pretty smart. If we can figure this out, maybe it'll help the other members testing batteries right now too.
My Turnigy Reaktor (iCharger 206B clone) can use regenerative discharge to a lead acid battery for up to 20A/300W, but I'm thinking about using a bank of power resistors instead. The primary advantage is not having to take care of a lead acid battery.
I intend to log discharge data to my computer to test batteries, and from what I understand, using fans and bulbs as resistive sources doesn't work because their resistance changes...or something. Whatever it is, I found a couple posts that says it's only good for discharging batteries, but not for testing.
Only one lithium ion cell (4.2V) will be used. As I understand, the 20A limit applies no matter what, so the 300W limit won't be reached with one lithium ion cell. I'd like to discharge at 10A and 20A, although I'd happily go over 20A too if it can be done.
First question is about the balance leads. The manual says they have to be used, so do I use the last two wires of any balance cables? I've done this with a regular discharge, so I think this would work here too.
Next question is simple, but answer isn't. What power resistors do I use to achieve the maximum discharge capacities of this charger? If it helps, I'm looking at these resistors, but am open to others.
I'm trying to use this guy's iCharger Extended Discharge Tool spreadsheet.
The iCharger manuals can be downloaded here.
These resistors will need to be kept cool, and I'm not asking for help with that, but here's my plan if you're curious. The resistors will be glued to 2"x3" hollow aluminum tubing. Plastic tubing will be run into the ends and sealed with a plate and sealed with GE Silicone II. The tubing will have water run through it with an aquarium pump drawing and discharging water from a 5 gallon bucket filled with chilled water. Why this way instead of a big heat sink and fan? All I need is the rectangular tubing, so this costs me very little. Quiet cooling and huge heat capacity is nice too.