Re: All about Batteries
Posted: Wed Oct 28, 2020 2:39 pm
I have studied data and spec sheets on LifePO4 batteries. Yes it is true that they overshadow lead acid batteries.
But when you compare them with GEL batteries the advantages shrink by considerable amounts.
Comparison were done between 100Ah batteries
Few things to keep in mind when changing over to LifePO4. Your current chargers might need replacement. Not all intelligent chargers can produce the higher charge voltage needed to be effective.
LifePO4 batteries are known for their short charge times. The trick however to achieve that is to charge at 50A to have a full charge in two hours.
Normal charging is at 20A. Very few 12V chargers available in that range. If you charge at the normal current rate of Lead Acid and GEL batteries the charge time will not differ much.
Excample. LifePO4 charged at 10A = 10hr charge time.
15A = 7hrs
20A = 5hrs
50A = 2hrs.
100w solar panel output at 12v with calculated losses is around 5.5A.
LifePO4 scores in longevity, weight, discharge rate and that is about all.
But when you compare them with GEL batteries the advantages shrink by considerable amounts.
Comparison were done between 100Ah batteries
Few things to keep in mind when changing over to LifePO4. Your current chargers might need replacement. Not all intelligent chargers can produce the higher charge voltage needed to be effective.
LifePO4 batteries are known for their short charge times. The trick however to achieve that is to charge at 50A to have a full charge in two hours.
Normal charging is at 20A. Very few 12V chargers available in that range. If you charge at the normal current rate of Lead Acid and GEL batteries the charge time will not differ much.
Excample. LifePO4 charged at 10A = 10hr charge time.
15A = 7hrs
20A = 5hrs
50A = 2hrs.
100w solar panel output at 12v with calculated losses is around 5.5A.
LifePO4 scores in longevity, weight, discharge rate and that is about all.