LiFePO4 Batteries for Marine Applications |
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LiFePO4 Battery Showing Cells and BMS Electronics
LiFePO4 (lithium iron phosphate) is a lithium-ion battery technology that is safe, powerful and plug compatible with most lead acid battery charging systems. This battery technology offers many advantages over lead acid technology including high capacity storage, delivery of consistent high power, longer cycle life, less weight, longer shelf life and rapid charging.
LiFePO4 batteries are the safest type of Lithium batteries as they will not overheat, and even if punctured they will not catch on fire. The cathode material in LiFePO4 batteries is not hazardous, and thus poses no negative health hazards or environmental hazards. Our LiFePO4 batteries are plug compatible with lead acid batteries and will accept a charge from most lead acid configured chargers.
A LiFePO4 battery has two primary components, the LiFePO cells and the Battery Management System (BMS). Both are housed in a sealed battery case. The quality of each component is key to the longevity and performance of the battery. LiFePO cells are wired in parallel to form a module producing 3.2 volts. Four of these units are connected together in series to form a rated 12.8 volt LiFePO4 battery. The temperature, charge and discharge of each cell is managed by the BMS, a computer built into each battery. A common LiFePO4 battery is rated at 100 amp hours and is roughly the size of a group 31 lead acid battery. These batteries are also rated as to their maximum discharge capacity. 100 Amps max discharge is common. We prefer a higher maximum discharge rate of 150 Amps for marine applications for both house and start power.
LiFePO4 batteries are the safest type of Lithium batteries as they will not overheat, and even if punctured they will not catch on fire. The cathode material in LiFePO4 batteries is not hazardous, and thus poses no negative health hazards or environmental hazards. Our LiFePO4 batteries are plug compatible with lead acid batteries and will accept a charge from most lead acid configured chargers.
A LiFePO4 battery has two primary components, the LiFePO cells and the Battery Management System (BMS). Both are housed in a sealed battery case. The quality of each component is key to the longevity and performance of the battery. LiFePO cells are wired in parallel to form a module producing 3.2 volts. Four of these units are connected together in series to form a rated 12.8 volt LiFePO4 battery. The temperature, charge and discharge of each cell is managed by the BMS, a computer built into each battery. A common LiFePO4 battery is rated at 100 amp hours and is roughly the size of a group 31 lead acid battery. These batteries are also rated as to their maximum discharge capacity. 100 Amps max discharge is common. We prefer a higher maximum discharge rate of 150 Amps for marine applications for both house and start power.
Advantages and Features of Our LiFePO4 Marine Batteries
Charge/discharge cycles - LifePO4 batteries have an expected life of 2,000-4,000 charge/discharge cycles at a discharge to 90%. Lead acid batteries have an expected life of 300-700 charge/discharge cycles at a discharge to 50%.
Discharge profile - LifePO4 batteries stay at a voltage of 13 to 13.4 volts during discharge of up to a 95+%. Voltage then drops off rapidly. A lead acid battery decreases in voltage from 13 to below 12 volts as more current is drawn. This means many appliances will operate more efficiently throughout the discharge cycle using LiFePO4 batteries.
Discharge rate - The BMS built into our batteries has a 100 amp or a 150 amp discharge capacity. This means the batteries can sustain a heavy discharge without damage or degradation. Our manufacturer has advised us that the quality of the cells and quality of the BMS is key to the longevity and performance of a LiFePo4 battery. We have seen this firsthand.
Charge/discharge cycles - LifePO4 batteries have an expected life of 2,000-4,000 charge/discharge cycles at a discharge to 90%. Lead acid batteries have an expected life of 300-700 charge/discharge cycles at a discharge to 50%.
Discharge profile - LifePO4 batteries stay at a voltage of 13 to 13.4 volts during discharge of up to a 95+%. Voltage then drops off rapidly. A lead acid battery decreases in voltage from 13 to below 12 volts as more current is drawn. This means many appliances will operate more efficiently throughout the discharge cycle using LiFePO4 batteries.
Discharge rate - The BMS built into our batteries has a 100 amp or a 150 amp discharge capacity. This means the batteries can sustain a heavy discharge without damage or degradation. Our manufacturer has advised us that the quality of the cells and quality of the BMS is key to the longevity and performance of a LiFePo4 battery. We have seen this firsthand.
"C" is the rated Amp Hour BMS Discharge Capacity (150 Amps)
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Charge and Cycle Curves
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Weight/power ratio - A typical 100 Ah LiFePO4 battery weighs about 31 pounds. A comparable lead acid battery is over twice that. Because LiFePO4 batteries can be safely be drawn down 95% vs 50%-60% for lead acid, fewer batteries are required to achieve the same power. Battery weight combined with useful power capacity means battery bank weight can be cut by more than half using LiFePO4 batteries. Also, LiFePo4 batteries will occupy up to 40% less space than equivalent lead acid batteries.
For example, 3 group 31 110 amp hour lead acid batteries weighing a total of 200 pounds can be replaced by 2 group 31 size 100 amp hour LiFePO4 batteries weighing a total of 62 pounds. Both configurations have roughly the same power capacity because the lead acid can be safely drawn down 50% (330 amps @50% = 165 amps) and the LiFePO4 can be safely drawn down 95% (200 amps @ 95% = 190 amps). Also, the lead acid will endure 400-600 cycles and the LiFePO4 over 2,000 cycles.
Example: Lead Acid LiFePO4
Battery Bank 3 Group 31 110 Ah 2 Group 31 size 100 Ah
Rated Capacity 330 Amps 200 Amps
Useable Capacity 165 Amps 190 Amps
Charge/discharge cycles 400-600 2,000-4,000
Weight 200 pounds 62 pounds
For example, 3 group 31 110 amp hour lead acid batteries weighing a total of 200 pounds can be replaced by 2 group 31 size 100 amp hour LiFePO4 batteries weighing a total of 62 pounds. Both configurations have roughly the same power capacity because the lead acid can be safely drawn down 50% (330 amps @50% = 165 amps) and the LiFePO4 can be safely drawn down 95% (200 amps @ 95% = 190 amps). Also, the lead acid will endure 400-600 cycles and the LiFePO4 over 2,000 cycles.
Example: Lead Acid LiFePO4
Battery Bank 3 Group 31 110 Ah 2 Group 31 size 100 Ah
Rated Capacity 330 Amps 200 Amps
Useable Capacity 165 Amps 190 Amps
Charge/discharge cycles 400-600 2,000-4,000
Weight 200 pounds 62 pounds
Smartphone app for LiFePO4 Battery Monitoring
Safety - Lithium batteries have a reputation for catching fire. This is not so with LiFePO4, a very different technology. The built-in Battery Management System (BMS) monitors the state of charge of each cell group and manages the temperature, charge and discharge rates. The BMS will prevent over-charging and over-discharging by disconnecting from the source. There are no toxic chemicals or gases as in many types of lead acid batteries. The batteries can be mounted in any direction; bottom or side.
Compatibility - While the optimal charging parameters vary between LiFePO4 and lead acid battery technology, the BMS built into our LiFePO4 batteries compensates for this. Thus, our LiFePO4 batteries are compatible with most lead acid battery charging systems.
Battery Monitoring - Our LiFePO4 batteries are equipped with two methods of monitoring battery State of Charge (SOC). This is important because unlike lead acid batteries, LiFePO4 batteries maintain a constant voltage between 13 and 13.4 volts so a volt meter is not an accurate indicator of SOC. A built in Bluetooth capability enables real time monitoring of each battery through an app on either an Android or IOS smartphone or tablet. The app displays the state of charge (SOC) of the battery, the amp draw and voltage level, the temperature, the time to full charge and the number of charge/discharge cycles. This capability is nearly equivalent to having a built in battery bank monitoring system like a Link 2000.
Winter Operation and Storage - LiFePO4 batteries can be stored in temperatures from 0°F to +100°F (-18°C to +38°C). It is recommended they not be charged and discharged at temperature below 0°F (-18°C) . It is recommended that the negative terminals be disconnected during winter or long term storage so there is no chance of draining the batteries while in storage. LiFePO4 batteries should be recharged at a minimum every 6 months while in storage.
Long Term Investment - Keep Them for Life - Because the number of charge cycles of well cared for LiFePO4 batteries is in excess of 2,000 they can be a long term investment you can take with you from boat to boat or boat to RV. Also, because the batteries have a built in cycle recording system, the batteries can be resold at a value based on their number of charge cycles. For example: The owner of a sailboat purchased three LiFePO4 batteries two years ago; two for house and one for engine starting. After two years of cruising the starting battery had 2 charge cycles and the house batteries, wired in parallel, had only 20 charge cycles as shown on the Bluetooth APP. These batteries are like new and can be taken to their new boat or sold as quality longlife used batteries. In fact, if and when CMP LiFePO4 batteries become available from our customers, we will post them on our website for purchase.
Cost - LiFePO4 batteries are 2 to 5 times the cost of comparable lead acid type batteries. Cost justification is often based on convenience, performance and longevity. Factors to consider in evaluating cost include the number of cycles, weight, charge and discharge parameters and compatibility.
Bottom line - Our LiFePO4 marine batteries have the following advantages:
1. lighter than lead acid - generally half the weight of lead acid
2. can be drawn down 90% vs 50% - more useable capacity
2. hold steady voltage through 95% discharge - constant power
3. generally plug compatible with lead acid chargers - drop-in replacement
4. charge more quickly and efficiently than lead acid batteries
5. have up to 10 times more charge cycles than lead acid and AGM batteries - could last a lifetime
6. nontoxic and safe, very low fire risk - many built-in protections
7. low self-discharge - easy winter storage, long shelf life
8. Bluetooth equipped to monitor battery with free app - built in battery monitor
They are more expensive than lead acid however their advantages and longevity often outweigh the additional investment.
Compatibility - While the optimal charging parameters vary between LiFePO4 and lead acid battery technology, the BMS built into our LiFePO4 batteries compensates for this. Thus, our LiFePO4 batteries are compatible with most lead acid battery charging systems.
Battery Monitoring - Our LiFePO4 batteries are equipped with two methods of monitoring battery State of Charge (SOC). This is important because unlike lead acid batteries, LiFePO4 batteries maintain a constant voltage between 13 and 13.4 volts so a volt meter is not an accurate indicator of SOC. A built in Bluetooth capability enables real time monitoring of each battery through an app on either an Android or IOS smartphone or tablet. The app displays the state of charge (SOC) of the battery, the amp draw and voltage level, the temperature, the time to full charge and the number of charge/discharge cycles. This capability is nearly equivalent to having a built in battery bank monitoring system like a Link 2000.
Winter Operation and Storage - LiFePO4 batteries can be stored in temperatures from 0°F to +100°F (-18°C to +38°C). It is recommended they not be charged and discharged at temperature below 0°F (-18°C) . It is recommended that the negative terminals be disconnected during winter or long term storage so there is no chance of draining the batteries while in storage. LiFePO4 batteries should be recharged at a minimum every 6 months while in storage.
Long Term Investment - Keep Them for Life - Because the number of charge cycles of well cared for LiFePO4 batteries is in excess of 2,000 they can be a long term investment you can take with you from boat to boat or boat to RV. Also, because the batteries have a built in cycle recording system, the batteries can be resold at a value based on their number of charge cycles. For example: The owner of a sailboat purchased three LiFePO4 batteries two years ago; two for house and one for engine starting. After two years of cruising the starting battery had 2 charge cycles and the house batteries, wired in parallel, had only 20 charge cycles as shown on the Bluetooth APP. These batteries are like new and can be taken to their new boat or sold as quality longlife used batteries. In fact, if and when CMP LiFePO4 batteries become available from our customers, we will post them on our website for purchase.
Cost - LiFePO4 batteries are 2 to 5 times the cost of comparable lead acid type batteries. Cost justification is often based on convenience, performance and longevity. Factors to consider in evaluating cost include the number of cycles, weight, charge and discharge parameters and compatibility.
Bottom line - Our LiFePO4 marine batteries have the following advantages:
1. lighter than lead acid - generally half the weight of lead acid
2. can be drawn down 90% vs 50% - more useable capacity
2. hold steady voltage through 95% discharge - constant power
3. generally plug compatible with lead acid chargers - drop-in replacement
4. charge more quickly and efficiently than lead acid batteries
5. have up to 10 times more charge cycles than lead acid and AGM batteries - could last a lifetime
6. nontoxic and safe, very low fire risk - many built-in protections
7. low self-discharge - easy winter storage, long shelf life
8. Bluetooth equipped to monitor battery with free app - built in battery monitor
They are more expensive than lead acid however their advantages and longevity often outweigh the additional investment.
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Specifications for 12V 150A Continuous Draw Battery
Electrical Characteristics Normal Voltage 12.8 V Rated Capacity 100±3 Amp hrs (.2C) Energy 1280 Watt hrs Internal Resistance ≤40mOhms Cycle Life ≥2,000 @ 0.2C (100% Depth of Discharge DOD) ≥6,000 @ 0.2C (80% DOD) ≥10,000 @ 0.2C (50%DOD) Passive Protection Over charge, over discharge, temperature, short circuit protection Standard Charge Charge Voltage 14.4±0.15 V Charge Mode 14.4 V Charge Current 30 Amps (.2C) Max. Charge Current 75 Amps (.5C) Standard Discharge Continuous Current 100 Amps (C) Max. Continuous Current ≤150 Amps (1.5C) Discharge Cut-off Voltage 10.0 V Environmental Charge Temperature 32°F to 113°F 0°C to 45°C Discharge Temperature -4°F to 140°F -20°C to 60°C Storage Temperature -10°F to 104°F -25°C to 40°C Mechanical Material System LiFePO4 Material Case Plastic Dimensions 13.6 in x 6.9 in x 8.5 in H 345mm x 175mm x 215mm H Weight 31 lb. 14.2 Kg Terminal M8 State of Charge Bluetooth, LED/LCD Shelf life 6 months before recharging |
LiFePO4 Marine Battery - 100 Ah 12.8 Volt 100 amp BMS with Bluetooth
$
899.00
These 12 V100 Ah LiFePO4 batteries are designed for marine house bank applications. They have a built in 100 amp Battery Management System and are plug compatible with most lead acid charging systems. Includes Bluetooth battery monitor option with free App.
LiFePO4 Marine Battery - 100 Ah 12.8 Volt 150 amp BMS with Bluetooth
$
949.00
These 12 V152 Ah LiFePO4 batteries are designed for both marine house and start applications. They have a built in 150 amp Battery Management System (BMS) and are plug compatible with most lead acid charging systems. Includes Bluetooth battery monitor option with free App.
***** NEW *****
LiFePO4 Marine Battery - 152 Ah 12.8 Volt 150 amp BMS with Bluetooth
$
1,249.00
These 12 V152 Ah LiFePO4 batteries are designed for both marine house and start applications. They have a built in 150 amp Battery Management System (BMS) and are plug compatible with most lead acid charging systems. Includes Bluetooth battery monitor option with free App.
LiFePO4 Marine Battery - 150 Ah 25.6 Volt 100 amp BMS with Bluetooth
$
2,300.00
These 24 V150 Ah LiFePO4 batteries are designed for both marine house and start applications. They have a built in 150 amp Battery Management System (BMS) and are plug compatible with most lead acid charging systems. Includes Bluetooth battery monitor option with free App.