Saving a MacBook Air with exploded accu

Don’t try this at home - but I did

Sep. 14, 2017 - Willem L. Middelkoop

Last night I had a nasty surprise: my original MacBook Air was swollen due to an exploded battery. I immediately had to take action, for reasons of safety and to preserve this piece of modern computer history. Don’t try this at home, but if you do... read along for some practical tips.

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The keyboard and casing is deformed

MacOS X correctly concluded that there are no batteries available, it works fine using a Power Adapter.

Once removed the deformation in the battery pack is clearly visible

Opening the MacBook Air is possible by removing the bottom lid.

I disconnected the battery from the logic board using a plastic tool (that does not conduct electricity).

Swollen and cracked. I carefully looked for any leaks.

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