Mac Battery Safety

Warning

  • This device contains a built-in lithium-ion rechargeable battery with soft battery cells. Battery safety is the number one concern when repairing a device with a built-in lithium-ion battery.

  • Only technicians with the knowledge, experience, and tools required to repair electronic devices should replace a battery.

  • Improper battery replacement, improper handling of parts, failure to discharge the battery before repair, or failure to follow the provided instructions could cause battery overheating, swelling, venting, leaking, or a battery thermal event. These events could result in fire, injury, death, data loss, or damage to the device, parts, or other property.

  • To avoid these potentially harmful events, follow the battery safety guidelines and work in a safety-focused workspace with the tools listed below. It’s important to be prepared for all possible outcomes.

How to set up a workspace for battery safety

Tools

  • Clean, dry, untreated sand (8–10 cups)

  • Sand container (wide-mouthed, quick pour, nonbreakable plastic container with a flip-top lid)

  • Heat-resistant gloves

  • Safety glasses with side shields

  • ESD-safe cleaning solution

  • Fireproof enclosure

Workspaces used to repair Apple devices should meet the following criteria:

  • Nonflammable and electrostatic discharge (ESD)-safe work bench

  • At least 2 feet away from paper and other combustible materials

  • Sand container within reach (2 feet) on one side of the workspace, not above the workspace

  • Adequate ventilation

  • Within 20 feet of a fireproof enclosure. Don’t store combustible or flammable materials in the enclosure. Ensure that the enclosure remains empty.

How to handle a battery thermal event

  Warning

A battery thermal event is a rapid chemical chain reaction that occurs inside a battery cell. The energy stored in the battery is released suddenly, which can cause outgassing and fire. A battery thermal event can be triggered by physical damage to the battery, improper replacement or repair, or temperatures outside the battery’s operating range.

Act immediately if you notice any of the following signs of a battery thermal event:

  • The lithium-ion battery or a device that contains one begins to smoke or emit sparks or soot.

  • The battery pouch suddenly and quickly puffs out.

  • The lithium-ion battery or a device that contains one begins to emit hissing or popping sounds.

Do smother the battery or device immediately with plenty of clean, dry sand. Dump the sand all at once. Timing is critical — the faster you pour all the sand, the sooner the reaction will be contained.

Do contact local fire authorities if further assistance is needed.

Do leave the room for 30 minutes after the reaction is contained. Ventilate the area. Don’t return until the area is clear of smoke.

Do wait 30 minutes before touching the device. Wear the heat-resistant gloves and safety glasses with side shields to remove the device from the sand. Then place the device into the fireproof enclosure. Leave it in the enclosure for at least 2 hours.

Do wipe the affected area with water first. Then wipe the area with an ESD-safe cleaning solution.

Do dispose of the damaged battery or device (including any debris removed from the sand) according to local environmental laws and guidelines.

How to handle batteries

Warning

Fully discharge the battery before you begin a repair. A discharged battery is less susceptible to a battery thermal event. If you can’t determine the battery level, don’t repair the device.

Discharge the battery

The following actions will help to discharge the battery:

  • Disconnect the power cable.

  • Increase display brightness to the highest setting.

  • Turn on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

  • Open the FaceTime app or Photo Booth app to turn on the camera.

  • Play a video from the local drive or a streaming service.

Use a battery cover

Avoid damaging the battery by performing the following actions:

  • Immediately after removing the bottom case, follow the instructions to attach the battery cover and disconnect the battery from the logic board.

  • Always keep the battery cover on the battery when it’s exposed.

  • Only remove the battery cover immediately before you install the bottom case, unless otherwise instructed.

Best practices

  • To avoid noxious fumes or a battery thermal event, don’t puncture, strike, or crush a lithium-ion battery or a device that contains one.

  • Keep your workspace clear of foreign objects and sharp materials.

  • Be careful when using sharp tools near the battery.

  • Don’t leave loose screws, extra screws, or small parts inside the device.

  • Don’t use tools that conduct electricity.

  • Don’t throw or drop the battery.

  • Don’t expose the battery to excessive heat or sunlight, or temperatures outside the battery’s operating range.

  • Handle and dispose of waste batteries in accordance with local laws and regulations.

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