Frequently Asked Questions

I want to upgrade to lithium iron phosphate batteries. What do I need to know?

As with any battery replacement, you need to consider your capacity, power, and size requirements, as well as making sure you have the right charger. Keep in mind, when upgrading from lead-acid to LiFePO4, you may be able to downsize your battery (in some cases up to 50%) and keep the same runtime. Most existing charging sources are compatible with our lithium iron phosphate batteries. Please contact RELiON technical support if you need assistance with your upgrade and they will be happy to make sure you pick the right battery.

What is a BMS? What does it do and where is it located?

BMS stands for Battery Management System. The BMS protects the cells from getting damaged — most commonly from over or under-voltage, over current, high temperature or external short-circuiting. The BMS will shut off the battery to protect the cells from unsafe operating conditions. All RELiON batteries have a built-in BMS to manage and protect them against these types of issues.

What size terminals and bolts come on RELiON batteries?

LJY Energ’s LiFePO4 batteries feature M6, M8 or M10 terminals. These types of terminals are insert terminals, also referred to as internal threads, and come with bolts. The terminal and bolt sizes are metric and the numerical signifier is the dimension in mm. For example, the M8 terminal is 8mm in diameter. The bolts have coarse threads (1.25tpi). Longer bolts, if needed, can be found at most hardware stores.

Can you mount the batteries in any position?

Yes, because there is no fluid inside of LiFePO4 batteries. This gives you the flexibility to install the battery where it is best suited for your ljyenergy.com/application">application.

What’s the difference between parallel and series connections?

Parallel connections involve connecting 2 or more batteries together to increase the capacity of the battery bank. In this case, the positive terminals are connected together and the negative terminals are connected together of all the batteries until you reach your desired capacity. Series connections involve connecting 2 or more batteries together to increase the voltage of the battery system. The positive of one battery is connected to the negative of another until the desired voltage is achieved. For example, if you connect 2 x 12V batteries in series, the battery system will be 24V.

Will a 12V, 100Ah lithium iron phosphate battery give a longer run time than a 12V, 100Ah lead-acid battery under the same conditions?

Yes. Lithium iron phosphate batteries provide more useable capacity than a lead-acid equivalently rated product. You can expect up to twice as much runtime.

How do I prep my lithium battery for off-season storage?

Simply charge your battery to 14.4 volts, disconnect the battery from your charger, and your equipment, then store in temperatures anywhere between 23°F to 95°F (-5°C to 35°C). For storage longer than 3 months, the recommended temperature range is 32°F to 77°F (0°C to 25°C), then it’s safe to store at a 50% state of charge. Unlike lead-acid batteries, a partial state of charge does not harm lithium batteries.

Where can I buy LJY Energy batteries?

LJY Energ batteries can be purchased online on ljyenergy.en.alibaba.com/">alibaba and website.You can choose to become our distributor and wholesaler, and, of course, the most common way is to retain your own brand, which can maximize the stability of your customers.

How do LiFePO4 batteries perform in cold temperatures?

As with all batteries, cold temperatures will result in reduced performance. LiFePO4 batteries have significantly more capacity and voltage retention in the cold when compared to lead-acid batteries. Important tips to keep in mind: When charging lithium iron phosphate batteries below 0°C (32°F), the charge current must be reduced to 0.1C and below -10°C (14°F) it must be reduced to 0.05C. Failure to reduce the current below freezing temperatures can cause irreversible damage to your battery. RELiON’s LT Series is specifically designed for cold charging, utilizing charge current to heat the battery before allowing charge. With the LT series, you can start the charge below 0°C (32°F).

How do LiFePO4 batteries perform in hot temperatures?

LiFePO4 batteries will provide their full capacity and performance until they reach the Battery Management (BMS) protection level. The BMS maximum temperature ranges from 60-80°C (140-176°F). Refer to the data sheet for your particular model to find the exact upper temperature limit. LiFePO4 batteries produce less heat than other lithium chemistries, but if they reach an upper limit, our BMS will protect the battery by shutting it off.

Are there required certifications to ship lithium iron phosphate batteries in the U.S.?

Yes, the Department of Transportation requires UN38.3 certification. All batteries must be UN38.3 certified in order to be legally transported via land, sea or air.

What is the expected life of a LiFePO4 battery?

Battery life is measured in life cycles and RELiON’s LiFePO4 is typically rated to deliver 3500 cycles at 100% depth of discharge (DOD). Actual life expectancy is dependent on several variables based on your specific ljyenergy.com/application">application. If used for the same application, a LiFePO4 battery can last up to 10X longer than a lead-acid battery.

How are LiFePO4 batteries safer than other lithium batteries?

Phosphate-based batteries offer superior chemical and mechanical structure that does not overheat to unsafe levels. Thus, providing an increase in safety over lithium-ion batteries made with other cathode materials. This is because the charged and uncharged states of LiFePO4 are physically similar and highly robust, which lets the ions remain stable during the oxygen flux that happens alongside charge cycles or possible malfunctions. Overall, the iron phosphate-oxide bond is stronger than the cobalt-oxide bond, so when the battery is overcharged or subject to physical damage then the phosphate-oxide bond remains structurally stable; whereas in other lithium chemistries the bonds begin breaking down and releasing excessive heat, which eventually leads to thermal Runaway. Lithium phosphate cells are incombustible, which is an important feature in the event of mishandling during charging or discharging. They can also withstand harsh conditions, be it freezing cold, scorching heat or rough terrain. When subjected to hazardous events, such as collision or short-circuiting, they won’t explode or catch fire, significantly reducing any chance of harm. If you’re selecting a lithium battery and anticipate use in hazardous or unstable environments, LiFePO4 is likely your best choice. It’s also worth mentioning, LiFePO4 batteries are non-toxic, non-contaminating and contain no rare earth metals, making them an environmentally conscious choice.