CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF EV POWERPAK BATTERIES. – lbt


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CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF EV POWERPAK BATTERIES.

posted Mar 2, 2021, 2:58 PM by Posts Editor

In response to a query about how we should be looking after our batteries our supplier Rod Dilkes sent the following information. 

STORING BATTERIES. 

Generally speaking Lithium batteries like to be used regularly. Regular charge and discharge cycles keep the batteries active and healthy. Prolonged (weeks) charging at 100% State of Charge (SOC) is not recommended. 

Care needs to be exercised when storing batteries in case equipment is accidentally left switched on, or in case the charger malfunctions or is inadvertently unplugged. Also the electronic Battery Control Unit (BCU) will over time gradually draw down the battery SOC. So if the batteries are left idle for a period the SOC may reduce until eventually the battery runs flat through self discharge. 

While the BCU has internal software and hardware protections against over-discharge, it is recommended to avoid this situation if at all possible. 

When storing batteries more than two weeks between use:

1) Switch on the BCU and charger and fully charge the battery. 

A 12V EV PowerPak should get past 14.0V to be considered fully charged. 

2) Switch off all loads and chargers, including solar chargers. If there is a main isolator then switch that off. 

3) Switch off the BCU by pressing the button on the front. There will be a click as the internal relay disengages. 

4) Mark on your calendar to repeat the process in three months.

5) Goto Step 1. 

If storing batteries for periods longer than 3 months, in addition to the previous instructions, disconnect the positive (red) terminal on each battery. This will disconnect power to the BCU and will allow batteries to be safely stored for 12 months or longer. 

MAINTAINING BATTERIES. 

EV PowerPak Lithium batteries are sealed and maintenance free. All they require is occasional charging to 100% full (14.2V) and regular use.

The following points should be condsidered for good lifespan:

1) Check that each cell has a green LED indicator showing. There are four on each pack and these are visible through the cover.

2) Check terminal bolts for tightness and corrosion. If there is corrosion use a wire brush to clean and some battery terminal spray to protect.

3) Check that there is not excessive dust moisture on the battery tops. This can be removed using a clean rag.

4) Check battery and BMS cables are not jammed between batteries or have insulation damage. 5) Check that the black BMS plug on top of each battery is correctly seated. If you look after your EV PowerPak batteries they will last you for many years! 

 Pic: Mr Sparks at work. 

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