How to build a lithium battery and connect the TAO BMS
This is a step-by-step video on how to build a lithium battery. It explains how to connect the TAO BMS to the lithium cells. And most importantly, how validate that the BMS detects faults.
Why temperature of lithium cells is important
The temperature is an important parameter that influences the aging of a lithium battery. At 35°C a lithium cell ages twice as fast as it does at 15°C. So if the battery’s useful life is 15 years at 15°C, it will be 7.5 years at 35°C. I summarize some research results and draw guidelines to better manage our lithium cells…
How to charge lithium and lead-acid batteries with an alternator
When installing a lithium battery on a boat or a camping car you need to decide if and how the alternator will charge it at the same time as the starter battery. If not done the right way the alternator could be damaged. In this article I address some key questions you may ask yourself, I point out some challenges…
Which lithium battery to buy?
A quick search on Internet for a 12 Volt 200 Ah lithium (LiFePo4) battery returns prices ranging from USD 406.00 to USD 4,185.00… all with seemingly the same great benefits and similar characteristics! What are the differences between all these batteries and how to choose the battery that is best suited to your application? This article provides some insight so…
Internal Resistance is your enemy!
Internal resistance (IR) is a characteristics of a battery cell that is often overlooked. It is in fact one of the most important.
Why is it important? What is the impact of having cells with different internal resistance?
I will cover a bit of theory and translate the research results into practical impact…
Keeping your battery healthy
Not so long ago the precursors who have purchased and installed lithium batteries for off-grid applications could only rely on the manufacturers’ specifications to guide them. These batteries were designed for the Electric Vehicle market where speed of charge and ability to deliver high currents are most important. Over time, after extensive testing and many dead battery banks they have…
How your battery will die?
This article explains in simple terms: how a lithium battery functions; the factors that contribute to it’s premature aging; the steps to maximize it’s life expectancy.
Why lithium?
Lithium batteries are the standard for Electric Vehicles and portable equipment where charge and discharge currents are important compared to the battery capacity. But for an off-grid application is the extra cost justified? What are their benefits and disadvantages when currents are much lower and performance over a long period of time is more important?
