EXPERTPOWER EP1220-V LiFePO4 12V 20Ah Rechargeable Battery User Guide

: June 16, 2024
: ExpertPower

Table of Contents

EXPERTPOWER EP1220-V LiFePO4 12V 20Ah Rechargeable Battery
Product Information
Product Usage Instructions
Overview
Features
Battery Specifications
BMS Parameters
Battery Attributes
Series & Parallel Connection
Battery Charging
Usage and Storage
Terms and Conditions
Exclusions and Limitations
References
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Download This Manual (PDF format)

EXPERTPOWER EP1220-V LiFePO4 12V 20Ah Rechargeable Battery

Product Information

Specifications

Battery Model: EP1220-V
Battery Type: LiFePO4 Deep Cycle
Nominal Voltage: 12.8V
Capacity: 20Ah
Weight: 5.8 lbs
Dimensions: 7.1 x 3 x 6.6 in
Terminal Type: F13 / M5

Features

Optimized for low rate applications
High energy density

BMS Parameters

Type: Battery BMS
Over-Voltage Protection: Disconnect charger, auto recover in 10S
Under-Voltage Protection: Disconnect load, auto recover in 10S
Cell Voltage Protection: Current temperature charge discharge
Cell Balance: Balancing voltage, balancing current
Short Circuit Protection: 160A – 250A

Product Usage Instructions

Installation

Ensure that the power source is disconnected before installation.
Place the battery in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Connect the battery terminals to the appropriate devices or circuit using the provided F13 or M5 connectors.
Ensure a secure connection by tightening the terminal screws.

Charging

Use a compatible charger designed for LiFePO4 batteries.
Ensure that the charger is set to the appropriate voltage and current settings for the EP1220-V battery (12.8V, recommend max. continue charge current: 30A).
Connect the charger to the battery terminals, ensuring correct polarity.
Monitor the charging process and disconnect the charger once the battery is fully charged.

Discharging

Connect the EP1220-V battery to the desired load or device.
Ensure that the load does not exceed the maximum continuous discharge current (10A).
Monitor the voltage levels during discharge to prevent over-discharging.
Disconnect the load once the desired discharge has been achieved.

Storage

If storing the battery for an extended period, ensure it is fully charged.
Store the battery in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Check the battery voltage periodically and recharge if necessary to maintain optimal performance.

Maintenance

Regularly inspect the battery terminals for any signs of corrosion or damage.
Clean the terminals if necessary using a soft cloth or brush.
Avoid exposing the battery to water or other liquids.

FAQ

Q: What is the recommended charging current for the EP1220-V battery?
A: The recommended maximum continuous charge current is 30A.
Q: Can I use a regular lead-acid battery charger to charge the EP1220-V battery?
A: No, it is recommended to use a charger specifically designed for LiFePO4 batteries.
Q: What is the maximum continuous discharge current for the EP1220-V battery?
A: The maximum continuous discharge current is 10A.
Q: How should I store the EP1220-V battery?
A: Store the battery in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Q: Can I use the EP1220-V battery in high-rate applications?
A: No, the EP1220-V battery is optimized for low rate applications that require high energy density.

Overview

The ExpertPower LiFePO4 12V 20Ah rechargeable battery is optimized for low rate applications which require high energy density

Features

High energy density
Automatic protection with internal battery management system
Low self-discharge rate
Long cycle life
Excellent performance in all operating temperatures
4 batteries in series or parallel

Battery Specifications

NOMINAL CHARACTERISTICS

Nominal Voltage / V 12.8V

Nominal Capacity /Ah (77°F, 0.2C) ≥ 20Ah
MECHANICAL CHARACTERISTICS

Weight 5.8 lbs

Dimensions L x W x H 7.1 x 3 x 6.6 in
BCI –
Terminal F13 / M5
ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS

Voltage Window 9.2 – 14.6V

Charge Voltage 14.4V
Standby Voltage 13.8V
Max. Continue Discharge Current                                        20A
Max. Permanent Discharge Current                            30A 5Sec.
Recommend Max. Continue Charge Current                         10A
OPERATION CONDITIONS

Cycle Life (68°F 0.2C 100%DOD) >2500 Cycles

Operating Temperature                        Discharge: – 4 – 140˚F Charge: 32 – 140˚F
Storage Temperature                                               32 – 86˚F
Storage Duration                                         12 Months at 77˚F
Safety Standard                                        UL1642 at cell level

Terminal Dimensions:

BMS Parameters

*TYPE*	*FUNCTION*	*SETTING VALUE RECOVERY*

__

Over- Voltage

| __

Cell Voltage Protection

| __

3.75 ± 0.05V

| __

Delay 2.0 ± 0.3S;

Cell Voltage ≤ 3.5 ± 0.05V

__

Under- Voltage

| __

__

Cell Voltage Protection

| __

__

<2.50 ± 0.05V

| __

Delay 2.0 ± 0.3S;

Cell Voltage ≥ 2.7 ± 0.05V

__

Current

| __

Charge

| Over-Current Protection 1| >35 ± 3A| __

Disconnect charger Auto recover in 10S

Delay| 2S
Over-Current Protection 2| >45 ± 3A
Delay| 1S
__

Discharge

| Over-Current Protection 1| >50 ± 5A| __

Disconnect load Auto recover in 10S

Temperature

| Battery| Charge: >145 ± 3°F or < 32 ± 3°F| __

Delay 2.0S ± 0.5S

| < 122 ± 3°F and > 41 ± 3°F
Discharge: >158 ± 3°F or < -4 ± 3°F| < 131 ± 3°F and > 14 ± 3°F
BMS| >185 ± 5°F| <158 ± 5°F
__

Cell Balance

Battery Attributes

Series & Parallel Connection

Supports expansion up to 4 batteries sequenced in either series at 48V 20Ah, or in parallel at 12V 80Ah.

Wiring Considerations

During the wiring of sequenced batteries, it is imperative to adhere to the following guidelines to ensure optimal safety and performance:

Avoid Single Battery Connection: Refrain from connecting both negative and positive wires from your electrical system to a single battery. Similarly, avoid linking them to batteries positioned centrally within the sequence.
Sequential Wiring Logic: Whether arranging multiple batteries in parallel, it is crucial to wire your sequenced batteries in a manner where the negative and positive wires from your electrical system are attached to the battery bank via the first and last batteries respectively. To elucidate, the initial battery in your sequence should have its negative terminal connected to the negative wire of your system, while the final battery in the sequence should host the positive wire of your system linked to its positive terminal.

Caution

To ensure the utmost effectiveness and longevity of your battery configuration, adhere to these essential guidelines:

Battery Consistency: Utilize identical batteries for parallel or series connections.
Uniform Voltage Levels: Before connecting in parallel or series, guarantee that all batteries share the same voltage level by fully charging each battery. The permissible voltage difference is less than 0.2V.
Avoid Mixing Batteries: Do not combine old and new batteries within the same setup.
Parallel and Series Separation: Avoid simultaneous parallel and series connections for the batteries.
Circuit Limitation: Do not exceed connecting more than 4 batteries per circuit.
Regular Maintenance: Annually, the batteries should be individually charged after being detached from the series. Upon reassembly, the voltage difference should not exceed 0.5V.

Your compliance with these precautions ensures the reliability and longevity of your LiFePO4 rack-mounted battery system.

Battery Charging

Efficiently charging LiFePO4 Batteries involves a precise 2-stage algorithm known as “Constant Current/Constant Voltage” (CC/CV). Following the standard LiFePO4 profile, the process entails a 0.2C Constant Current (CC) charge up to 14.2V, followed by Constant Voltage (CV) at 14.4V charge until the current reduces to ≤ 0.05C.

For optimal results with a 20Ah LiFePO4 battery, we recommend adhering to these specifications

Recommended Max Charging Current: Ideally, the charging current should not exceed 10A (0.5C). However, when circumstances demand, a faster charge of 20A (1C) can be employed. Nonetheless, consistent usage of the 1C charge method may lead to reduced battery lifespan and capacity due to heightened heat generation during this process.
It’s crucial to note that the utilization of chargers designed for other battery types, such as SLA and Gel chargers, is strongly discouraged. These chargers, tailored for acid-based chemistries, often come with features like desulfation, equalization, and float charging, which are detrimental to LiFePO4 batteries. The built-in BMS may not suffice to safeguard against the potential damage incurred from using such chargers.

The improper use of SLA chargers can trigger adverse effects:

Accelerated Aging: Maintaining a LiFePO4 battery at 100% charge using the SLA float charging feature could significantly expedite the aging and degradation process due to the constant stimulation of battery cells.
Polarization and Electrolyte Decay: The excess power supplied by an SLA charger can lead to material buildup at the electrode-electrolyte interface, known as polarization, and result in electrolyte decay. Additionally, using an SLA charger with an OCV (Open-Circuit Voltage) detection setting might damage the battery and fail to revive an over-discharged LiFePO4 battery. The BMS will deactivate the battery for protection, resulting in a situation where the battery is seemingly in an open-circuit state.

To prevent these issues and ensure optimal battery performance:

Use Correct Charging Algorithm: Employ the appropriate CC/CV algorithm (14.4V) for LiFePO4 batteries. SLA smart chargers cannot fully charge or properly maintain LiFePO4 batteries

Warnings

Do not immerse the battery in water or allow it to get wet.
Do not use or store the battery near sources of heat such as a fire or heater.
Do not reverse the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals.
Do not connect the battery directly to wall outlets or car cigarette-lighter sockets without proper charging equipment. Do not allow exposed ends of cables connected to opposite terminals to touch.
Do not put the battery into a fire or apply direct heat.
Do not use the battery if the battery casing has been pierced, broken, cracked, or otherwise visibly damaged. Do not forcibly open the battery casing for any reason.
Avoid severe physical shock. Do not throw the battery or heavily strike the battery in any way. Do not put excessive pressure or step on the battery.
Never solder anything directly to the battery terminals.
Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the battery in any way.
Do not place the battery in a microwave oven or pressurized container.

Usage and Storage

Before Use Inspection: Before employing the battery, conduct a thorough examination to ensure its integrity, free from visible damage or structural irregularities.
Terminal and Other Visual Checks: Do not utilize the battery if terminals are bent, or broken, or if the battery exhibits any of the following conditions: abnormal heat, wetness, severe physical or water damage extending to the battery from the packaging, leaks, loose components, cracked casing, bloating, melting, heavy stress, or indentation. In such instances or if there are concerns about the battery’s integrity, promptly contact our support team for expert assistance.
Professional Installation: For optimal performance and prevention of damage or malfunctions, it is strongly recommended to have these battery packs installed by a professional or experienced individual. Monitorcharging and discharging during initial use, and diligently observe temperature and operational performance. Any operational issues should be directed to our support team.
Proper Storage Conditions: Store the battery pack in a well-ventilated, cool, and dry environment. Avoid stacking it under heavy objects, exposing it to high temperatures, open flames, or corrosive substances.
Temperature and Humidity Considerations: Store the battery within specified temperature conditions. Maintain a recommended humidity of 60±15%.
Ideal Storage Capacity: Store the battery at a capacity between 40% and 60%. Every three months during storage, follow these steps:
Fully charge the battery.
Discharge the battery completely.
Recharge the battery to a capacity between 40% and 60% to prevent over-discharge during storage.

Disclaimer

For your safety and the optimal functioning of your electrical system, we strongly advise engaging a qualified professional for installation. Properly handling electrical connections and components demands a comprehensive grasp of electrical principles and adherence to local building codes, along with appropriate installation techniques. Employing a trained professional ensures accurate and secure installation, significantly reducing the risk of accidents and equipment damage

Terms and Conditions

Prior to usage, carefully review all specifications, usage instructions, storage conditions, and warnings detailed in this document. Adherence to our handling and usage guidelines for this battery pack is paramount. Misuse of batteries can lead to malfunction, capacity reduction, degradation, overheating, explosion, or fire hazard. Responsibility for appropriate usage and storage, as outlined in this document, rests with the customers. If the battery exhibits excessive heat, leaks, malfunctions, visible damage, or fails to operate as expected, refrain from use and promptly contact our support team for assistance.
We disclaim responsibility for any damages resulting from the misuse of this battery, whether accidental or otherwise.

Warranty Information

This warranty guarantees that the batteries will be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use for two years after purchase. However, it does not cover damages caused by customer abuse, improper handling, overcharging, undercharging, water damage, fire, or any other circumstances beyond our control. Furthermore, the warranty does not extend to normal wear and tear, capacity loss over time, or a gradual decrease in battery performance.

Exclusions and Limitations

Reasonable wear and tear.
Normal corrosion.
Use of unapproved parts or unapproved alterations to components to the extent prohibited by the manufacturer’s written operating manuals.
Defects caused by persons other than the manufacturer and its affiliates, including operation or maintenance of the product or installation and commissioning of the equipment and materials by such persons in violation of the written operating, maintenance, installation, and commissioning instructions, manuals, and protocols supplied to the buyer, or buyer’s affiliates, by the manufacturer before such installation, commissioning or operation.
Vandalism, misuse, or Force Majeure Events.
Items expected to be consumed or expended during the normal operation and maintenance of the product.
Replacement of the product fulfills the one-time limited warranty during the stated period

Note on Customer Responsibilities

Customers are responsible for proper maintenance and understanding the limitations of the product.

This includes:

Over-discharge from self-discharge during storage.
Improper use as a starting battery or in applications for which the product was not designed.
Opening or modifying the product.
Applying voltages/currents that are too high.
Improper storage.
Use of an undersized product.
Mechanical damage due to impact, excessive vibration, penetration, etc.
Damage due to connecting in reverse polarity.
Damage or resulting internal corrosion caused by liquids.
Use of an incorrect charger or charging profile.
Use of an appliance with built-in charging for a different battery chemistry.
Connecting the batteries to higher voltage or currents than supported, as stated in this document

For a full version of our product warranty please visit our website at: https://www.expertpower.us/pages/warranty-information or scan the QR code below.

For Questions And Support