I thought I would share some tips I have learned when flying a Drone during the summer months. I hope they help.
Keep in mind, Drone manufacturers typically include an operating temperature range in the specs of their product. Know what your limits are. For example, the DJI Mavic 2 Pro lists an operating temperature range of 14° to 104° F ( -10° to 40° C ). With that being said, Most drones are built to withstand high temperatures — up to 104° Fahrenheit (F) in some cases.
DON’T LEAVE YOUR DRONE, BATTERIES, EQUIPMENT IN A HOT CAR
The interior of a parked car will heat to a much higher temperature than the outdoor temperature and quickly. Prolonged exposure to high heat will reduce the life of the LiPo battery used in many UAVs. Additionally, internal wires and plastics in your equipment could be susceptible to melting.
BE WARY OF ELECTRONICS OVERHEATING
Most drone pilots use an iPhone/iPad to fly. iOS devices have a normal operating temperature of 32° to 95°F, High temperatures can cause iPhones/iPads to shut down. Cameras will also overheat during flights. This could lead to a big disappointment if your camera shuts off mid-flight, causing lost footage. Try using a sunshade and always allow these devices to cool to a normal operating range before using them again.
SHORTEN FLIGHT TIMES AND TAKE BREAKS BETWEEN FLIGHTS
The best way to prevent overheating of your drone, electronics, or drone camera is to shorten your flight times. Hot weather can cause your drone’s motors to work harder to generate more lift. This can lead to shorter flight times, so plan accordingly. Allow your equipment to cool to normal temperatures in-between flights.
HUMIDITY IS BAD
Hot weather is often accompanied by high humidity. Humidity can cause your drone to become damp with moisture and we all know that water causes DAMAGE. Always check the humidity before flying and ensure you wipe down your drone before and after each flight.
STORE YOUR BATTERIES IN A COOL PLACE UNTIL FLIGHT TIME
The most dangerous part of the drone getting hot is the lithium-ion battery. Once a Lithium-Ion battery starts to heat up, it gradually expands over time and slowly lets out chemicals and toxic fumes. Eventually, the battery will explode and catch fire, causing your drone to drop out of the sky. Be sure to keep your batteries in a cool place until it is time to use them.
SUMMARY
A basic rule of thumb is to find ways to keep your equipment and yourself as cool as possible. Fly in the shade when possible, use a Sunshade on your screen, and allow your equipment to cool down to a normal range in-between flights.
Follow these tips for flying a drone in hot weather this summer, and you should have an enjoyable flight. Most importantly stay safe and ensure you are following all drone rules and regulations.
Michael Hill is the Founder / CEO of Uncrewed Aerospace, an award-winning Drone Technology Company, that helps clients integrate Uncrewed Technology & Ai on the land, in the air, and at sea. Follow our work at www.uncrewedaerospace.com #TheDronePro