1. Product Overview
The Tewaycell 12.8V 8Ah Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) Deep Cycle Battery is a high-performance, rechargeable power solution designed for various applications, including power tools, backup power systems, and as a superior replacement for traditional Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) batteries. Featuring a built-in Battery Management System (BMS), this battery offers enhanced safety, longevity, and efficiency.
Figure 1: Tewaycell 12.8V 8Ah LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery. This image shows the compact black battery unit with orange and white labeling indicating its brand, voltage, and capacity.
2. Safety Information
Please read and understand all safety instructions before using the Tewaycell LiFePO4 battery. Failure to follow these instructions may result in electric shock, fire, serious injury, or property damage.
- Do not short circuit the battery terminals. This can cause severe damage to the battery and pose a fire hazard.
- Use only compatible chargers. Charging with an incompatible charger may damage the battery or lead to overheating.
- Do not disassemble, puncture, or modify the battery. The internal components are not user-serviceable.
- Keep the battery away from water, fire, and extreme temperatures. Optimal operating temperature is specified in the specifications section.
- Ensure proper ventilation when charging or discharging the battery, especially in enclosed spaces.
- Handle with care. Avoid dropping or subjecting the battery to strong impacts.
- Dispose of batteries responsibly according to local regulations. Do not dispose of in household waste.
3. Product Features
The Tewaycell LiFePO4 battery incorporates advanced technology to deliver superior performance and reliability:
- Compact & Lightweight Design: Approximately 70% lighter than comparable lead-acid batteries, making it ideal for applications where weight reduction is crucial, such as kayaks, boats, RVs, and power wheelchairs.
- Perfect SLA Replacement: Designed to be a direct replacement for 12V Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) batteries. Four 3.2V cells are configured in series to achieve a nominal voltage of 12.8V, closely matching the voltage requirements for many SLA applications.
- Extended Cycle Life: Offers a significantly longer lifespan with at least 2000 cycles at 100% Depth of Discharge (DOD), and retains 80% capacity even after 3000 cycles. This is up to 10 times longer than typical lead-acid batteries.
- Built-in Battery Management System (BMS): The integrated BMS actively monitors and manages the battery's real-time status. It provides essential protections including:
- Low and High Voltage Cut-off Protection
- Over-charge Protection
- Over-discharge Protection
- Over-current Protection
- Short Circuit Protection
- Cell Balancing for optimal performance and longevity
- Low Self-Discharge Rate: Maintains charge for longer periods when not in use.
- 10-Year Lifetime: Engineered for long-term durability and performance.
Figure 2: Comparison of Tewaycell LiFePO4 battery with a traditional Lead Acid Battery. This graphic highlights the superior lifetime (10 years vs 3 years), cycle life (2000-4000 vs 300-500), load power (2 times vs 1 time), weight (2.09lb/0.95kg vs 3 times LiFePO4 weight), and Depth of Discharge (90% DOD vs 50% DOD) of the LiFePO4 battery.
Figure 3: Diagram illustrating the various protections provided by the Built-in Battery Management System (BMS), including over-discharge, over-charge, short circuit, over-current, and cell balance.
4. Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Tewaycell |
| Model | TW1208 |
| Part Number | Tewaycell12.8-8 |
| Nominal Voltage | 12.8 Volts |
| Battery Capacity | 8 Amp Hours (Ah) |
| Battery Cell Composition | Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) |
| Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 15.1 x 6.5 x 10 cm (5.94 x 2.56 x 3.94 inches) |
| Weight | 1.21 kg (2.67 lbs) |
| Compatible Devices | Monitors, Solar Systems, Power Tools, Wheelchairs |
| Mounting Hardware | Screw Kit (included) |
| Lifetime | 10 Years |
| Cycle Life | 2000+ cycles at 100% DOD |
Figure 4: Detailed dimensions of the Tewaycell 12.8V 8Ah LiFePO4 battery, showing length (151mm / 5.94"), width (65mm / 2.56"), and height (100mm / 3.94"), along with F2 terminal details.
5. Setup and Connection
Before connecting the battery, ensure all devices are turned off and that you are working in a dry, well-ventilated area.
5.1 Initial Inspection
Upon receiving your battery, inspect it for any visible damage. If any damage is found, do not attempt to use the battery and contact customer support immediately.
5.2 Connecting the Battery
The Tewaycell LiFePO4 battery can be used individually or connected in series or parallel for higher voltage or capacity requirements. Always ensure correct polarity when making connections.
- Single Battery Connection: Connect the positive (+) terminal of the battery to the positive input of your device and the negative (-) terminal to the negative input.
- Series Connection (for higher voltage): To increase voltage, connect the negative terminal of one battery to the positive terminal of the next. The maximum recommended series connection is up to 48V (e.g., four 12.8V batteries for 51.2V nominal). Ensure all batteries in a series string have the same capacity and are fully charged before connecting.
- Parallel Connection (for higher capacity): To increase capacity, connect positive terminals together and negative terminals together. It is recommended to connect less than 10 batteries in parallel. Ensure all batteries in a parallel bank have the same voltage and are fully charged before connecting.
Use appropriate gauge wiring and connectors for your application to prevent overheating and ensure efficient power transfer. The included screw kit can be used for secure terminal connections.
Figure 5: Illustration of battery connection methods. The diagram shows how to connect multiple batteries in series (up to Max. 48V) and in parallel (Less Than 10 Batteries in Parallel Recommended) to achieve desired voltage or capacity.
6. Operating the Battery
6.1 Charging the Battery
The Tewaycell LiFePO4 battery can be recharged using a dedicated Lithium Battery Charger or a compatible Solar Panel.
- Lithium Battery Charger:
- Recommended Charging Voltage: 14.2V ~ 14.6V
- Recommended Charging Current: 2A (for 8Ah model)
- Connect the charger to the battery terminals, ensuring correct polarity.
- Solar Panel:
- Recommended Solar Panel Power: 30W
- Charging Mode: 14.6V LiFePO4 (ensure your solar charge controller is set for LiFePO4 batteries)
- Connect the solar panel via a compatible solar charge controller to the battery.
The built-in BMS will protect the battery from overcharging, but using a charger specifically designed for LiFePO4 batteries with the correct voltage and current settings is crucial for optimal battery health and longevity.
Figure 6: Two primary methods for recharging the Tewaycell LiFePO4 battery: using a dedicated Lithium Battery Charger or a Solar Panel with an appropriate charge controller.
6.2 Discharging the Battery
The battery is designed for deep cycle applications, allowing for a high Depth of Discharge (DOD) of up to 90%. The BMS will automatically cut off power if the voltage drops too low to prevent over-discharge, protecting the battery.
6.3 Typical Applications
This battery is versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications:
- Power Tools
- Backup Power Systems
- Solar Energy Storage
- Electric Scooters
- Marine Applications (Boats, Fishing)
- RV and Camping Power
- Power Wheelchairs
- Monitors and other electronic devices requiring 12V power
Figure 7: Examples of common applications for the Tewaycell LiFePO4 battery, including radio stations, e-scooters, boat/fishing, and RV/camping.
7. Maintenance
Proper maintenance will ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Tewaycell LiFePO4 battery.
- Regular Cleaning: Keep the battery terminals clean and free of corrosion. Use a dry cloth to wipe down the battery casing.
- Storage: If storing the battery for an extended period, ensure it is charged to approximately 50-70% of its capacity. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Recharge every 3-6 months if stored for very long durations.
- Avoid Deep Discharge for Long Periods: While the BMS protects against over-discharge, it's best practice to recharge the battery promptly after it has been deeply discharged.
- Check Connections: Periodically check that all connections are secure and free from looseness or damage.
8. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Tewaycell LiFePO4 battery, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Battery not charging | Incorrect charger; loose connections; charger malfunction; BMS protection activated. | Ensure you are using a LiFePO4 compatible charger with correct voltage/current. Check all cable connections. Test charger with another device if possible. If BMS has activated protection (e.g., due to deep discharge), a specific LiFePO4 charger may be needed to reactivate it. |
| Battery not providing power | Battery is discharged; BMS protection activated (over-discharge, over-current, short circuit); loose connections. | Charge the battery. Check for any short circuits in your system. Ensure all connections are secure. If the BMS has tripped, remove the load and try to reset by connecting to a charger. |
| Reduced runtime | Battery not fully charged; aging battery; high power draw from device. | Ensure battery is fully charged before use. Verify charging parameters. Consider the power consumption of your device. While the battery has a long life, all batteries eventually degrade. |
| Battery feels warm during operation/charging | Normal operation (slight warmth); excessive load; poor ventilation; internal issue. | Slight warmth is normal. Ensure adequate ventilation around the battery. Reduce load if possible. If the battery becomes excessively hot or emits an odor, immediately disconnect it and contact support. |
If the problem persists after attempting these solutions, please contact Tewaycell customer support for further assistance.
9. Warranty and Support
Tewaycell is committed to providing high-quality products and responsive customer service. We stand behind our products with confidence.
- Warranty: Specific warranty details are typically provided with your purchase documentation. Please refer to the warranty card or product packaging for the exact terms and duration of your warranty.
- Customer Support: For any questions, technical assistance, or warranty claims, please contact Tewaycell customer service. We aim to be responsive as quickly as within 18 hours via email.
- Contact Information: Please refer to the contact details provided on the Tewaycell official website or your purchase invoice.
