EG4 Power Lithium Battery User Manual

EG4 Power Lithium Battery

Product Information

• Specifications
  • Module Operating Parameters:
  • BMS: –
  • Recommended Charger Settings: –
  • Voltage: 51.2V
  • Capacity: –
  • Charging Voltage (Bulk/Absorb): –
  • Float: –
  • Low DC Cutoff: 44.8V
  • Charge Current: 100/140/200A Max. Continuous**
  • Discharge Current: 200A Max. Continuous
  • Environmental Parameters:
  • Charging Range: –
  • Discharging Range: –
  • Storage Range: –
  • Ingress Protection: IP65
  • Charging/Discharging Parameters:
  • Cell Voltage Protection: 3.8V
  • Module Voltage Protection: 60V
  • Charge Over-Current 1: >205A
  • Charge Over-Current 2: >225A
  • Temperature Protection: 1 sec, 10 sec, 60 sec
  • Discharge Over-Current 2: >300A
  • Short Circuit: 2000A, 0.1 ms
  • Temperature Protection: 1 sec, 1 sec

Product Usage Instructions

• Charging the Battery
  • To charge the battery, follow these steps:
  • Ensure the charger settings match the recommended values.
  • Connect the charger to the battery following the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Monitor the charging process and disconnect once fully charged.
• Discharging the Battery
  • To discharge the battery, follow these steps:
  • Connect the battery to the device you want to power.
  • Monitor the battery level and recharge when necessary.

FAQs

• Q: What is the IP rating of the battery?
  • A: The battery has an Ingress Protection rating of IP65, making it dust-tight and protected against water jets.
• Q: What is the maximum charge current supported?
  • A: The battery can support up to a maximum continuous charge current of 200A.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS SHEET

(51.2V×280Ah/1000×80%×8000 cycles/1000)90%=MWh
Note: The default BMS in the module allows for 100A charging current maximum. To achieve higher charging currents, please contact the distributor for optional firmware files, or navigate to https://eg4electronics.com/downloads/ for the most up to date firmware.

ABBREVIATIONS

• A – Amp(s)
• AC – Alternating Current
• Ah – Amp hour(s)
• AHJ – Authority Having Jurisdiction
• ANSI – American National Standards Institute
• AWG – American Wire Gauge
• BAT – Battery
• BMS – Battery Management System
• COM – Communication
• CT – Current Transformer
• DC – Direct Current
• DIP – Dual In-line Package
• DOD – Depth of Discharge
• EG – Equipment Ground
• EGS – Equipment Grounding System
• EPS – Emergency Power System
• ESS – Energy Storage System
• E-Stop NO – Emergency Stop Normally Open
• FCC – Federal Communication Commission
• GE – Grounding Electrode
• GEC – Grounding Electrode Conductor
• GEN – Generator
• GES – Grounding Electrode System
• GFCI – Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter
• GFDI – Ground Fault Detector/Interrupter
• IEEE – Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers
• Imp – Maximum Power Point Current
• In. lbs. – Inch Pounds
• IP – Ingress Protection
• Isc – Short-Circuit Current
• kW – Kilowatt
• kWh – Kilowatt-hour
• L1 – Line 1
• L2 – Line 2
• LCD – Liquid Crystal Display
• LFP – Lithium Iron Phosphate or LiFePO4
• mm – Millimeter(s)
• MPPT – Maximum Power Point Tracker
• ms – Millisecond(s)
• mV – Millivolt(s)
• NEC – National Electrical Code
• NEMA – National Electrical Manufacturers Association
• NFPA – National Fire Prevention Association
• Nm – Newton Meters
• NOCT – Normal Operating Cell Temperature
• PC – Personal Computer
• PCB – Printed Circuit Board
• PE – Protective Earth (G or Ground)
• PPE – Personal Protective Equipment
• PV – Photovoltaic
• RSD – Rapid Shut Down
• SCC – Standards Council of Canada
• SOC – State of Charge
• STC – Standard Testing Conditions
• UL – Underwriters Laboratories
• UPS – Uninterrupted Power Supply
• V – Volt(s)
• VMP – Voltage Maximum Power
• VOC – Open-Circuit Voltage

SAFETY

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

• International safety regulations have been strictly observed in the design and testing of the battery.
• Before beginning any work, carefully read all safety instructions, and always observe them when working on or with the battery.
• The installation must follow all applicable national or local standards and regulations.

Incorrect installation may cause:

• injury or death to the installer, operator or third-party
• damage to the battery or other attached equipment

IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTIFICATIONS

DANGER! Various safety concerns must  be carefully observed before, during, and after the installation, as well as during future operation and maintenance. The following are important safety notifications for the installer and any end users of this product under normal operating conditions.

1. Beware of high PV voltage. Please install an external DC disconnect switch or breaker and ensure it is in the “off” or “open” position before installing or working on the battery. Use a voltmeter to confirm there is no DC voltage present to avoid electric shock.
2. Beware of high grid voltage. Please ensure the AC switch and/or AC breaker are in the “off” or “open” position before installing or working on the battery. Use a voltmeter to confirm there is no voltage present to avoid electric shock.
3. Beware of high battery current. Please ensure that the battery module breakers and/or on/off switches are in the “open” or “off” position before installing or working on the battery. Use a voltmeter to confirm there is no DC voltage present to avoid electric shock.
4. Do not open the battery while it is operating to avoid electric shock and damage from live voltage and current within the system.
5. Do not make any connections or disconnections (PV, battery, grid, communication, etc.) while the battery is operating.
6. An installer should make sure to be well protected by reasonable and professional insulative equipment [e.g., personal protective equipment (PPE)].
7. Before installing, operating, or maintaining the system, it is important to inspect all existing wiring to ensure that it meets the appropriate specifications and conditions for use.
8. Ensure that the PV, battery, and grid connections to the inverter are secure and proper to prevent damage or injuries caused by improper installation.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of injury, read all instructions

All work on this product (system design, installation, operation, setting, configuration, and maintenance) must be carried out by qualified personnel. To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not perform any servicing other than those specified in the operating instructions unless qualified to do so.

1. Read all instructions before installing. For electrical work, follow all local and national wiring standards, regulations, and installation instructions.
2. Make sure the battery is properly grounded. All wiring should be by the National Electrical Code (NEC), ANSI/NFPA 70.
3. The battery and system can interconnect with the utility grid only if the utility provider permits. Consult with the local AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction) before installing this product for any additional regulations and requirements for the area.
4. All warning labels and nameplates on this battery should be clearly visible and must not be removed or covered.
5. The installer should consider the safety of future users when choosing the battery’s correct position and location as specified in this manual.
6. Please keep children away from touching or misusing the battery and relevant systems.
7. Beware! The battery and some parts of the system can be hot when in use, please do not touch the battery’s surface or most of the parts when they are operating. During operation, only the LCD and buttons should be touched.

DISCLAIMER: EG4 reserves the right to make changes to the material herein at any time without notice. Please refer to www.eg4electronics.com for the most updated version of our manuals/spec sheets.

BRIEF INTRODUCTION

Battery Features

• The constant rated output current of 200A
• IP65 all-weather rated, integrated self-heating during low ambient temperatures
• Smart balancing of cells enhances the battery consistency and the lifespan up to 15 years of life with over 8000 cycles at 80% DOD at 0.5C
• Built-in intelligent BMS with battery voltage, current, temperature, and health management to reduce electrical risks and overheating
• Internal busbars rated to 600 Amps for paralleling multiple batteries and feeding multiple inverters
• Real-time monitoring and LCD screen to display battery voltage, current, temperature, SOC in detail
• Integrated E-stop circuit supports emergency stop function with remote Rapid Shutdown Initiator (RSD) or Energy Storage Systems (ESS) disconnect or by inverter’s RSD or ESS terminals
• Communicate with inverter using CAN or RS485. Firmware update using RS485
• Plug-and-play cable installation with the use of the 250A weather-tight quick connectors
• Stable, reliable, and maintenance-free battery pack
• Comprehensive safety UL9540A, UL1973 on cell and module level with enhanced onboard fire-extinguishing modules

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

• The EG4 48V WallMount All Weather 280Ah batteries are ideal for low-voltage residential outdoor energy storage system (ESS) applications.
• These batteries use lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4 or LFP) cells with the highest safety performance and an intelligent Battery Management System (BMS) that can monitor and record the voltage of each cell, along with the current, voltage, and temperature of the module in real-time.
• The BMS also contains a passive balance function and an advanced battery control method, both of which improve the performance of the battery pack. For enhanced security, the battery has two onboard fire-extinguishing modules.
• With a design life of more than 15 years, the WallMount is designed to last over 8000 cycles at 80% DOD at 0.5C°.

PACKING LIST

The items listed below are included with the purchase:

Battery Overview

DANGER: When installing or removing battery, ensure battery is in the off position, and use a voltmeter to confirm there is no voltage present. This will prevent users from encountering live (powered) terminals by accident. Failure to do so can result in sever injury and/or death.

BATTERY DIAGRAM

• It is highly recommended to install the battery with at least 12-inch clearance on each side of the battery (back and front sides excluded) to easily access the side panel.

NOTE: Additional hardware may be required to remove the side terminal covers. EG4 recommends a Phillips head screwdriver to remove said screws.

NOTE: The battery disconnect breaker is 2 single pole breakers with a singular switch, paralleled together to reach a 250A rating.

LOCATION SELECTION AND INSTALLATION

• WARNING
  • Do not put 48V batteries in series. The BMS and internal components are not designed to handle this setup, which could cause the modules to fail.
  • The wall mount is heavy. Use a lift or other equipment to lift and carry the unit
  • The WallMount can be installed on either flat ground or the wall. If installed on flat ground, ensure there is proper drainage on the ground surrounding the battery to maintain the integrity of the module over time. If installing on the wall, ensure at least a 12-in. gap on each side of the unit for adequate airflow and operations.
  • Install the WallMount in a location that prevents damage from flooding
  • Always mount the battery in an upright position.
  • WallMount must be installed with clearance at the left, right, top, bottom, and front of the product for easy installation and safe operation of the unit as shown in the above picture.
  • NOTE: The battery will be shipped with temporary lifting handles for removing the battery from its packaging. See the image below for the location. EG4 recommends removing the handles before connecting any wiring to the battery.
  • Ensure at least 12 in. between multiple WallMount batteries and other devices unless it is installed as a part of PowerPro WallMount ESS that includes the EG4-18kPV with the conduit box.
  • In a PowerPro WallMount ESS installation, the conduit box is attached directly to both the battery and inverter.
  • Please follow NEC and other local codes while installing the product.

The battery can be installed in multiple different configurations:

1. Installation without a conduit box (Sec 7.2)
2. Installation with a conduit box (Sec 7.3)
3. Installation with EG4 18kPV inverter (Sec 7.4)

Refer to Section 7.3 for multiple battery installations with multiple EG4-18kPV units.

POWERPRO CONDUIT BOX INSTALLATION

• The conduit box is a highly recommended accessory for the battery to retain all the cables inside an enclosure for added protection and safety.
• The conduit box holds both the conduits and wires that are running between the inverter and the battery.
• Each Conduit box comes with 8 thumb screws that can be used to attach the inverter and the battery.

Figure 8 – Conduit Box Schematics

• Step 1: Identify the four screw locations that attach to the battery (Figure 9). Place the conduit box on top of the battery and use the provided thumb screws to tighten the conduit box to the battery.
  • If installing the WallMount as an additional battery or along with non-EG4 18kPV inverter (Section 7.3), please use the plugs to cover the top holes on the conduit box. Refer to Figure 11.

INSTALLATION WITHOUT A CONDUIT BOX

CAUTION: ALWAYS MOUNT THE BATTERY IN AN UPRIGHT POSITION!

Mounting Instructions

1. Place mounting bracket on wall at proper mounting height (min. 28.0625 in) from the ground; use a level to make sure the bracket is straight, and mark mounting hole locations. Drill holes to accommodate mounting hardware being used.
   • Note: The mounting bracket at 28.065 in. from the ground makes the battery sit on the ground.
2. Secure mounting bracket to the wall using the included expansion bolts (concrete/brick walls) or appropriate hardware required for the mounting surface.
   • Note: If not mounting into concrete or brick using the included expansion bolts, ensure bolts are mounted into both studs or other supportive material. The battery is 300lbs, please ensure full mounting support.
3. Attach the WallMount battery pack to the mounting bracket. To accomplish this, lift the battery up and hook the flange on the back of the battery into the flange on the front of the mounting bracket. Secure the battery to the mounting bracket with the 4 included side screws (see Figure 12)
   • Note: The battery is very heavy. Please use the team lift technique to prevent damage to personnel and/or equipment
4. Finally, properly ground the battery, attaching a grounding conductor to the M6 grounding screw on top of the battery to the Equipment Grounding System.

INSTALLATION WITH A CONDUIT BOX

Attach the conduit box (sold separately) to the top of the WallMount battery using the included hardware. Refer to Section 7.1 for the conduit box installation instructions.

CAUTION: ALWAYS MOUNT THE BATTERY IN AN UPRIGHT POSITION!

Mounting Instructions

1. Place the mounting bracket on the wall at the proper mounting height (minimum 28.0625 in) from the ground; use a level to make sure the bracket is straight, and mark mounting hole locations. Drill holes to accommodate mounting hardware being used.
   • Note: The mounting bracket at 28.065 in. from the ground makes the battery sit on the ground.
2. Secure the mounting bracket to the wall using the included expansion bolts (concrete/brick walls) or appropriate hardware required for the mounting surface.
   • Note: If not mounting into concrete or brick using the included expansion bolts, ensure bolts are mounted into both studs or other supportive material. The battery is 300lb, please ensure full mounting support.
3. Attach the WallMount battery pack to the mounting bracket. To accomplish this, lift the battery up and hook the flange on the back of the battery into the flange on the front of the mounting bracket. Secure the battery to the mounting bracket with the 4 included side screws (see Figure 14)
   • Note: The battery is very heavy. Please use the team lift technique to prevent damage to personnel and/or equipment
4. Attach the conduit box (sold separately) to the top of the WallMount battery using the included hardware.
5. Finally, properly ground the battery, attaching a grounding conductor to the M6 grounding screw on top of the battery to the Equipment Grounding System.

WITH EG4 18KPV INVERTER

CAUTION: ALWAYS MOUNT THE BATTERY IN AN UPRIGHT POSITION!

Mounting Instructions with EG4 18kPV (See diagrams on following pages) Note: If not mounting into concrete or brick using the included expansion bolts, ensure bolts are mounted into both studs or other supportive material. The battery is 300lb, please ensure full mounting support.

1. Place mounting bracket on wall at proper mounting height (Min. 28.0625 in.) from the ground; use a level to make sure the bracket is straight, and mark mounting hole locations. Drill holes to accommodate mounting hardware being used.
   • Note: The mounting bracket at 28.065in from the ground makes the battery sit on the ground.
2. Align the provided X-bracket with the holes on the mounting bracket and secure both to the wall, using the included expansion bolts (concrete/brick walls) or appropriate hardware required for the mounting surface. The X-bracket will be behind the mounting plate, against the wall.
3. Using the X-bracket as a guide, attach the EG4 18kPV mounting bracket using the appropriate hardware required for the mounting surface.
4. Attach the WallMount battery pack to the mounting bracket. To accomplish this, lift the battery up and hook the flange on the back of the battery into the flange on the front of the mounting bracket. Secure the battery to the mounting bracket with the 4 included side screws (see Figure 16).
   • Note: The battery is very heavy. Please use the team lift technique to prevent damage to personnel and/or equipment
5. Attach the conduit box (sold separately) to the top of the WallMount battery using the included hardware.
6. Attach the 18kPV to the inverter mounting bracket making sure that the holes of the inverter align with the conduit box and secure to each other with the included hardware.
7. Finally, properly ground the battery, attaching a grounding conductor to the M6 grounding screw on top of the battery to the Equipment Grounding System.

GENERAL INSTALLATION

WARNING

• Be sure the battery packs are powered “OFF” before making/removing any connections.
• Use the two included sets of 2/0 AWG (70mm) outdoor rated positive and negative battery cables with the outdoor-rated connectors. The connectors will “click” when seated properly.
• Note: To remove the circular connector installed on the battery, first press the release button on the side of the connector, then slowly pull until the connection is broken.
• When paralleling batteries, use one set of 2/0 AWG (70mm) positive and negative battery cables with outdoor rated connectors on both ends to connect the battery to battery. These cables are available from the distributor as a paralleling kit.
• When paralleling batteries, use a communication cable to attach the master battery to additional batteries for battery-to-battery communication. This cable is also available from the distributor in the paralleling kit.

BATTERY PARALLELING GUIDE

1. Ensure all battery breakers and BMS are OFF.
2. Set the address code of each battery according to the DIP Switch ID Table (see Section 10.1: DIP Switch ID Table), making sure there are no duplicate addresses.
3. Set up communication between the batteries via the “Battery-Comm” ports of each battery. Use the paralleling kit communication cable to daisy chain all paralleled batteries in the bank together. See diagram below for example.
4. The battery with DIP Switch ID 1 (referred to as the master) connects to the inverter via a properly pinned communication cable (depending on inverter) using the RS485/CAN port.
5. Install battery paralleling cables between batteries. Refer to Section 8.2 Battery Cable Connections for battery cable connection diagram examples.
6. Once all cable connections are completed and the system is ready to be commissioned, power on each battery breaker and BMS ON/OFF switch one at a time beginning with the master battery.

BATTERY CABLE CONNECTIONS

• The following battery cable connection diagrams are examples using the internal busbars to parallel the batteries together and attach the inverter(s) to the batteries. When relying on the internal busbars, up to 3 batteries are supported in parallel when connected to a single inverter, 4 batteries in parallel when connected to 2 inverters, or up to 5 batteries in parallel when connected to 3 inverters.
• Systems with more batteries than these configurations require the use of an external fused positive busbar and an unfused negative busbar rated at a minimum of 200A per battery. Each fuse should be a maximum of 250A. Alternatively, larger systems could rely on the 18kPV’s ability to draw from different battery packs while still paralleling inverters rather than utilizing external busbars.
• The maximum recommended number of paralleled 18kPV inverters is 6. If this approach is used, we recommend a ratio of 3 batteries per pack controlled by each 18kPV inverter. Separating packs is only recommended if each pack’s average SOC is monitored over time and does not diverge by more than 10%. Common busbars are superior to separating battery packs but it may be difficult to source fused positive busbars rated to greater than 1800 Amps. This translates into separating packs larger than 9 batteries. Refer to NEC code and the local AHJ for exact requirements.
• NOTE: In the following diagrams, units are spaced 12 in. apart. Local regulations may require a larger minimum battery spacing. Check with the local AHJ for these requirements. If longer parallel cables than are available in the optional paralleling kit are necessary, please check with the distributor for availability.
  • Note: To comply with the UL9540 listing for this integrated battery, conduit box, and inverter system, the batteries must be wired as shown using the supplied inverter to battery cables. An additional paralleling kit is required for each additional paralleled battery (sold separately).
  • Caution: To minimize voltage drop in the wire, the battery cables should maintain optimum length. The 53.1 in. cables from the “parallel kit” are sufficient to daisy chain the batteries.

ADDITIONAL CONFIGURATIONS

Note: Some configurations require additional wiring/connectors to achieve the example layouts. Inverter-to-inverter paralleling cables is not shown in the following diagrams. Other configurations can be achieved by using external busbars. Please seek the guidance of an electrician or qualified person for the optional system layout.
Pro Tip: One EG4-18kPV and a minimum of 2 WallMount units is the recommended configuration to maximize the system’s functionality.

EMERGENCY STOP (RSD, ESS DISCONNECT)

• The optional ESS disconnect can be used to shut down all batteries and inverters (if equipped) with the push of a button.
• When paralleling multiple batteries, the ESS disconnect only needs to have connections made with the master battery.
• This integrated safety feature ties directly into the battery communication system via an open Battery-Com port using a standard Cat-5/6 ethernet cable.
• Pins 3 & 6 are used to communicate the emergency stop information to the batteries once the stop button is pressed.
• If the inverter is equipped with rapid shut down (RSD) capabilities, the emergency stop feature can be used to initiate this function. Check with the local AHJ and NEC code for compliance.

BATTERY COMMUNICATIONS

• Each EG4 battery is designed with the end-user in mind, displaying as much information as possible most only. EG4 Electronics includes the option of connecting the battery to PC software to monitor the module status. This allows the user to see and understand exactly what the battery is doing as well as troubleshoot if problems arise.
• Note: The master battery will communicate directly with the system via the RS485/CAN port.

DIP SWITCH ID TABLE

• EG4 batteries interface with an inverter by designating a “Master” battery (DIP switch ID No. 1).
• The available ID codes range from 1‒64. The battery will connect directly to the inverter via an RS485 battery communications cable or a standard CAT 5, 5e, or 6 cable for closed-loop communications with supported non-EG4 inverters using CAN bus protocol.

REMINDER

If paralleling multiple batteries, all DIP switch settings must be different from each other. This allows all equipment to see each battery in the bank separately. For best practice, place IDs in sequence starting with ID 1 as the master battery.

LCD SCREEN

• Each module has a built-in HD LCD touchscreen used to display important information about the cells including voltage, current, temperature, SOC, among others.

Button Description

• There are 4 function buttons below the display with detailed descriptions, as shown in the table below.

Waking up the LCD screen
Press any key to wake up the screen when the power is on, and the information will be shown on the display.

COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL SELECTION

IMPORTANT: Only the master battery (Address 1) should be set to the inverter protocol; all other batteries must have unique addresses starting at address 2 and ascending in chronological order.

Protocol Change/Selection Procedure

1. Power off all battery DC breakers and BMS power buttons.
2. The inverter protocol can only be changed with the master battery temporarily set to address 64 (all switches ON. After the dipswitch is changed, restart the battery (with only the BMS power button) for the settings to take effect. (See image on right.)
3. On the master battery, press and hold the “Return” key for 5 seconds and release it to enter the “Protocol Setting” menu.
4. Select the corresponding RS485 program or CAN program, and press Enter.
5. Press the “Return” key to return to the main interface.
6. Change the master DIP switch address back to address 1. (See the image on right.)
7. Power cycle the master battery, and the BMS will correspond to the protocol selected.

“About” Screen

• When single-tapping the battery’s return key, the “About” page will populate. Here the user can check which Inverter protocol the battery is set to, BMS version numbers, and Firmware version numbers.
• See image to the right for an example.

OPERATION GUIDE

BMS TOOLS INSTALLATION AND INTERFACING
The PC software “BMS Tools” provides real-time battery analysis and diagnostics. The battery cannot communicate with BMS Tools and a closed loop inverter at the same time. The steps outlined below will walk through the initial set up of BMS Tools.

1. Using an RS-485 (RJ45 Pins 1-B, 2-A) to USB-A cable, connect to the RS-485 port of the battery and then to a USB-A port on a Windows computer.
2. Set the battery’s dipswitch to ID: 64. (all dips ON)
3. Power on the battery pack.
4. Confirm the RS485 cable’s COM is set correctly in the BMS Tools program. Refer to the Device Manager on the PC for more information.
5. Change the Baud Rate to 9600.
6. Change the “ID” to 64.
7. Select, “Start Monitoring”.
8. The “Com State” will now change from “Offline” to “Connected.” The system will now monitor the battery’s values in real time.

BATTERY CHARGING

Charge cycle

• Ensure the proper settings are set on the charge controller and/or inverter being used to avoid overcharging or damaging the module.
• (Refer to Section 1: Technical Specifications Table for a full list of charging/discharging parameters.)

IMPORTANT

• It is normal for LFP batteries that have their own internal BMS and that are wired in parallel to demonstrate a wide variety of SOC readings during any given charge or discharge cycle.
• Variations of up to 10% are common. This is not cause for concern or indication that the module is providing less than the maximum capacity. This is caused by even slight variations in wiring resistance to each battery, internal resistance, temperature differences, and even variations in each cell.
• Even a slight variation causes one battery to take more of the load or charge for a short time. Throughout the discharge or charge cycle, this will balance out with the lagging battery then taking the load or charge at the other end of the cycle resulting in recovering the full listed kWh capacity of the pack.
• The voltage differences created as batteries diverge in SOC will eventually cause them to converge at some point in the cycle.

BATTERY PERFORMANCE CURVES

Recommended Charge Current Settings for Paralleled Batteries on Paralleled 18kPVs

Please note that if the battery firmware is updated to allow 200A maximum charge, the internal thermal sensors will throttle the charge current to what the BMS deems necessary to prevent overheating.

TROUBLESHOOTING, MAINTENANCE & DISPOSAL

INTRODUCTION TO THE BMS

• The BMS (Battery Management System) is intended to safeguard the battery and battery cells against a variety of situations that could damage or destroy system components.
• This protection also aids in keeping the battery and battery cells operational for a greater number of life cycles. Each EG4 battery is specifically configured to ensure peak performance and operation with any system.

BMS PROTECTION

• PCB temperature protection
  • The BMS will ensure that the Printed Circuit Board (PCB) does not overheat. This is the component that houses most of the “brains” of the battery. This feature will turn off the battery if it begins to overheat.
• Cell balance protection
  • Cell balance ensures that each cell is within a specific voltage range of each other. Cell balance is crucial for ensuring that the battery is operating properly for its lifespan. This is always done automatically.
• Environmental temperature protection
  • It may be dangerous to attempt using the battery in extreme heat or cold. Continued operation in these conditions may result in permanent damage to the battery module and its components. To prevent this, the BMS is designed to measure the temperature while charging/discharging and will shut down the battery to prevent damage.
• Voltage protection
  • The BMS is designed to continuously monitor the voltage of each individual cell and ensure that they are not over/undercharged.
• Current protection
  • The BMS is designed to constantly monitor the charge/discharge amperage and has built-in safeguards against exceeding specific parameters. These include built-in timers that shut off quickly in the event of short circuits, extremely high amperage and delayed shut down for amperage that is only slightly above the maximum capacity.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Alarm Description and Troubleshooting

When the ALM light on the battery control panel is on, it means that the battery has given an alarm or has been protected from potential damage. Please check the cause of the failure through the app or BMS Tools and take appropriate measures or go directly to the battery site to troubleshoot. BMS Tools alarms are shown in the table below:

Warning and protect status definitions

NOTE: The “Historical Record” tab can indicate what occurred with the module before entering a warning or protection state. It is recommended to export this data into a text (.txt) file to provide to the distributor for any additional troubleshooting assistance.

Other common faults and solutions

NOTE: If any of the warnings or faults from both tables persist, please contact the distributor for additional troubleshooting steps.

BATTERY END-OF-LIFE

• The EG4 48V battery is designed to last for more than 15 years when used correctly. We have worked tirelessly to ensure that our batteries will maintain a charge after thousands of cycles. However, when it does come time to retire the battery, there are a few things to consider.
• Lithium-iron phosphate batteries are considered a hazardous material and should not be disposed of by simply placing them in the trash. Several websites and organizations will accept this battery to recycle at little to no cost to the user. At EG4, we understand that we are working with customers across the United States and the world.
• Our recommendation is to go online and search the term “Lithium Battery Disposal Near Me.” There will likely be an assortment of organizations that can safely dispose of LFP batteries.
• We recommend calling ahead of time to ensure that the location is still open and accepting material.
• If users are unable to locate a disposal location safely, EG4 is here to help. Before dumping the battery or disposing of it incorrectly, please contact our customer service team for assistance.

EG4 10 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

• The warranty must be registered within the first year of purchase to remain valid.
• If users choose not to register the product, the warranty may be invalidated. This limited warranty is to the original purchaser of the product and is not transferable to any other person or entity.
• All BMS and cell exchanges are covered throughout the warranty period. If a full replacement warranty is needed the warranty is prorated 1/9th per year after the first year at the current retail pricing.
• Please navigate to https://eg4electronics.com/warranty-registration/ to register the warranty.

WARRANTY EXCLUSIONS

• Under this limited warranty, EG4® Electronics has no obligation to the product if it is subject to the following conditions, including but not limited to:
  • Damages incurred during installation or removal
  • Damages caused during mishandling of product
  • Inappropriate environmental exposure
  • Damages caused by improper maintenance
  • Unauthorized tampering, altering, and/or disassembly of product
  • Using the product for purposes other than those intended by the manufacturer
  • Lightning, Fire, Flood, or Acts of God
  • Any product whose serial number has been altered, defaced, or removed

The equipment sold by EG4 Electronics is designed to be installed only by licensed, trained, and insured solar electrical installation professionals. We strongly advise customers to seek the assistance of such a professional to implement these products, and we make no warranty of the purchaser’s safety, success of equipment implementation, or compliance with local codes and regulations. EG4 Electronics disclaims all additional warranties, expressed or implied, including but not limited to, any implied warranty concerning the accuracy or completeness of the information they disseminate and /or the fitness of the materials sold for a particular purpose. No warranty may be created or extended by sales or promotional materials on these items. Each party hereby irrevocably waives its rights to trial by jury in any action or proceeding arising out of this agreement or the transactions relating to its subject matter. All installation advice provided by EG4 before, during, or after the purchase of solar equipment is purely for general concept education and must not replace the expertise of a licensed and trained solar specialist. The customer agrees to full indemnification for EG4 henceforth from any legal recourse relating to and arising out of losses, direct or consequential, from the installation of the products purchased by the customer more than the value of the equipment purchase price.

STORAGE

• Please follow these instructions for the safe storage of the unit to maintain the longevity of the battery, if choosing not to install the product immediately after purchasing or unpacking the box.
• There are a few steps that can be taken to ensure that batteries are stored safely and in a state that will ensure they are not damaged during storage. The steps are detailed below.

Battery State

• The state of the battery when placed into storage will affect how long it can be stored as well as the battery’s condition when it is brought out of storage. EG4 recommends that each battery is brought to a 100% SOC (state of charge) before placing it in storage. Lithium batteries will lose a certain percentage of their total charge while in storage, depending on how long they are stored and the conditions they are stored in. We recommend recharging the batteries after 8–9 months in prolonged storage.

Environmental Factors

• The environment the battery is stored in can greatly affect the health of the battery. For best results, the temperature should range between 33°F and 90°F (0.6°C and 32°C). Mount the battery in a location where it is not exposed to direct rain or standing water. Keep the battery away from direct sunlight. Store the batteries away from combustible materials.

CONTACT US

• support@eg4electronics.com
• 903-609-1988
• www.eg4electronics.com.
• SCAN FOR UPDATED DOCUMENTS
• © 2024 EG4 ELECTRONICS, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. VERSION 1.3 | INFORMATION SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.
• MODEL #: WPOWER-16/280-AW

References

• EG4 Electronics
• EG4 Electronics
• EG4 Electronics
• eg4electronics.com/downloads/

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