Hydraulic Press + LiPo batteries = Explosions and Fire

Lithium Polymer batteries have become very popular in many applications thanks to their high capacity and comparative light weight, making them ideal for radio controlled applications and many personal electronics where physical space is at a premium.

LiPo battery cells do have one relatively big drawback in that they can burst into flames if they’re overcharged, causing property damage and injuries. However, if they’re charged correctly and handled with relative care, LiPo batteries are safe and reliable sources of power for their intended applications.

Of course, using a hydraulic press to flatten them to oblivion is NOT handling them with care, but when has that stopped Experiment at Home, the YouTube channel that decided to do just that! As you can see, the battery packs do not react well to the tons of force, erupting into intense flames when the pressure is applied. Of course, they was the plan, and it makes for some great footage.