New 2 stage PD lithium Converter charger yet?
When I installed lithium batteries 18 months ago I also changed out my converter charger. I didn't want it constantly charging 14.4 volts. so I returned it and have been using my original PD convert...
Forum Discussion
I just sent this email to a pal:
“Well, BFL is correct in that it’s a poor strategy to use a ‘set and forget’ charger” -
Further, I agree with most else of what he stated :)
In my view, a ‘true LFP charger’ might have a smart chip in it that would recognize when cell balancing is complete (holding period, and end of current calls), but seriously, how often does one need to fully charge a LFP, and no need to keep on charger when not in use…
My PD in bulk outputs 14.4v (likely 14.3 at terminals), but I never FULLY charge while not in attendance (at least during the last few % of upper SOC), then, after determining completion of balancing on Victron BMV 712, shutdown the PD (or solar controller) after balancing - BUT, I infrequently do a ‘FULL charge’ because, except for cell balancing (incl, meter re-sync’s), most often there’s no need to do such, thus, during ‘routine charging’ (considering LFP’s greater usable capacity…) I mostly charge to around 85-90’ish % using off-grid solar harvest rather than the PD…
On the other hand, Victron’s BMV SOC meter has a built-in programmable load relay feature that can be configured to a inverted parameter function - by this means, the PD (or whatever…) could be shutdown (and restarted) upon reaching a certain voltage…
Again, based on my own camping style I see little effort and far more convenience (due to usable capacity) to the charging LFP’s than with my former GC2’s - JMHO
3 tons
Sent from my iPad
“Well, BFL is correct in that it’s a poor strategy to use a ‘set and forget’ charger” -
Further, I agree with most else of what he stated :)
In my view, a ‘true LFP charger’ might have a smart chip in it that would recognize when cell balancing is complete (holding period, and end of current calls), but seriously, how often does one need to fully charge a LFP, and no need to keep on charger when not in use…
My PD in bulk outputs 14.4v (likely 14.3 at terminals), but I never FULLY charge while not in attendance (at least during the last few % of upper SOC), then, after determining completion of balancing on Victron BMV 712, shutdown the PD (or solar controller) after balancing - BUT, I infrequently do a ‘FULL charge’ because, except for cell balancing (incl, meter re-sync’s), most often there’s no need to do such, thus, during ‘routine charging’ (considering LFP’s greater usable capacity…) I mostly charge to around 85-90’ish % using off-grid solar harvest rather than the PD…
On the other hand, Victron’s BMV SOC meter has a built-in programmable load relay feature that can be configured to a inverted parameter function - by this means, the PD (or whatever…) could be shutdown (and restarted) upon reaching a certain voltage…
Again, based on my own camping style I see little effort and far more convenience (due to usable capacity) to the charging LFP’s than with my former GC2’s - JMHO
3 tons
Sent from my iPad
