The low-down on managing LifePO4 batteries

Batteries
1

This video caused a bit of a stir.
But I respect the honourable Mr Prowse and I take note (and generally agree with him)

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2

This video prompted me to dig out my stash of LMC battery packs. (Yes I know these were not the subject matter but the self discharge issue is what gave me the skriks!)
And yes I’ve noticed cells going short circuit (or with unacceptably high self discharge rates)
The message I have got now is to keep Li-Ion batteries charged. It’s like they lose their polarization. I’ve read that during the manufacturing process the initial charging of these batteries is a delicate procedure

3

Ideally you should keep them at 40% SoC, so charge them to 3.8V, then you should be closer to 40% than 0 or 100%.

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4

This is the sequel to the previous video where he specifies the voltages of LiFePO4 batteries for SOC and storage etc.
PS: @plonkster He refers to the 3.55V for Victron batteries as an exception… You referred to this here: Do I keep my BMV? When is the BMS good enough? - #118 by plonkster

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5

Victron branded batteries, 14.2v for their Winston Cells, are different, different electrolytes, BMS also not the same as the rest, is what Will spoke of in the video.
Was here: https://youtu.be/K9Tfivf5bAI?t=1008

The post you linked to, is for Lifepo4, the generally used cells in most other brands.

Between Andy and Will, the trove of information is immense. Their experiences and advices, dictates my settings.

Since Will made these vids recently, my SOC is now 10% SOC … there is no LS.

EDIT - To Note: Brand name banks, that can affect warranties. So better people check their warranty documentation.

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I wish I could get to that. I have to really come up with ideas for the batteries to get a good workout every now and then.

(careful what one wishes for…) :laughing:

7

Because of that statement, Gauteng (or only my neighborhood) will now see a whole week of rainy weather and some loadshedding as well.

It just works like that with me. When I water the grass/garden, that same day it usually rains.

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8

No longer using Winston as upstream supplier… just so you know.

But in general, LFP cells don’t mind voltages up to 3.8V per cell, and most batteries that aren’t Pylontech will allow you to go to 3.75V typically. It is not the best for the battery, but anything between 3.45V and 3.55V per cell is generally acceptable. And that is 14.2V in a 4s pack.

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