Renogy Smart Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery

General Information

The Renogy Smart Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery is an ideal solution for off-grid energy storage systems. Its 48V nominal voltage ensures low heat generation and high efficiency during high power transmission. The modular design allows for easy scaling to meet various configurations, enabling tailored energy solutions for specific projects. The battery adheres to the highest safety standards and boasts an exceptional lifecycle, optimized through proprietary manufacturing processes and cell architecture. The advanced battery management system (BMS) provides comprehensive protection features and real-time monitoring. With integrated intelligent self-heating, the battery can be recharged even in low-temperature conditions.

Key Features

• Modular Design: Facilitates easy parallel connection of multiple batteries with an auto-balancing function to meet the power and energy demands of different system setups.
• Reliable System: The battery management system (BMS) and high-performance dual-processors offer robust protection features and real-time monitoring.
• Uncompromised Quality: Features an exceptional lifespan of over 4500 cycles (80% DOD), a maximum discharge current of 50A, and operates within a wide temperature range.
• Communication Port: Equipped with communication ports for seamless interaction between connected batteries, external devices, and host computers.
• Self-Heating: The intelligent self-heating feature ensures the battery remains charged in cold environments.

Product Overview

Identification of Parts

• ① Positive Terminal (with Terminal Cover)
• ② Negative Terminal (with Terminal Cover)
• ③ LED Indicator
• ④ Power Button
• ⑤ RS485 UP Communication Port
• ⑥ RS485 LINK Communication Port
• ⑦ CAN Communication Ports

Dimensions

Height: 8.62 in (218.9 mm)

Width: 22.70 in (576.0 mm)

Depth: 7.87 in (200.0 mm)

Internal Width: 16.35 in (415.2 mm)

Internal Height: 8.46 in (215.0 mm)

Additional Components

Long Terminal Bolts (2): These M8 x 1 x 20 bolts are used to secure multiple cable lugs onto a single battery terminal.

Preparation

Before installation and operation, ensure you have the following equipment and tools:

• Proper Protective Equipment
• Insulated Tool(s)
• Multimeter
• Battery Cable
• Battery Charger / Charge Controller

Battery Installation

Safe and reliable installation requires trained and certified technicians. This section provides guidelines, as not all scenarios can be covered.

WARNING:

• DO NOT short-circuit the battery terminals, as this can cause current bursts and irreversible damage to the system and battery.
• Verify polarity before connecting wiring. Incorrect polarity can destroy the battery.
• Use appropriately sized circuit breakers, fuses, or disconnects, as specified by a certified electrician, licensed installers, or regional code authorities, to protect all electrical equipment.

Inspection

Visually inspect the battery for any damage, including cracks, dents, or deformation. Ensure the top of the battery and terminal connections are clean, dry, and free of dirt and corrosion. For assistance with any detected problems, please contact Renogy.

Cable Sizing

Battery cables should be appropriately sized for the expected load. Refer to the following table for the ampacities of copper cables with different gauge sizes:

The values above are from NEC Table 310.15(B)16 for copper cables rated at 75°C (167°F), operating at an ambient temperature not exceeding 30°C (86°F). For lengths over 6 feet (1829 mm), a heavier gauge cable may be necessary to prevent excessive voltage drop.

Connecting Batteries in Banks

WARNING: DO NOT string batteries in series, as this can lead to catastrophic failure.

CAUTION:

• DO NOT parallel batteries with different chemistries, brands, models, rated capacities, or nominal voltages.
• Avoid significant voltage differences between paralleled batteries, even with the auto-balancing function, to prevent over-current protection from triggering.
• Ensure all cables connecting batteries in parallel are of equal length for optimal system performance.
• Connecting more than 8 batteries in parallel is not recommended when utilizing the auto-balancing function.

To connect multiple batteries in parallel:

1. Connect the Positive Terminals of all batteries together.
2. Connect the Negative Terminals of all batteries together.
3. Connect the Positive Terminal of the first battery and the Negative Terminal of the last battery to the system. This configuration increases overall battery capacity while maintaining the same voltage.

To enable communication between paralleled batteries for the Renogy Monitoring Screen or Renogy Bluetooth Module, connect the RS485 LINK Communication Ports of the preceding batteries to the RS485 UP Communication Ports of the subsequent batteries using CAT5 (or higher) Ethernet straight-through cables (not included). The Renogy Monitoring Screen or Renogy Bluetooth Module should be connected to the RS485 UP Communication Port of the first battery.

Securing Cable Connections

CAUTION:

• Secure all cable connections to the specified torque to ensure good contact between cable lugs and terminals. Over-tightening can cause terminal breakage, while loose connections can lead to terminal meltdown or fire.
• Use an insulated Phillips screwdriver for tightening cable connections.

To ensure good contact, use the appropriate number of washers for maximum thread engagement without bottoming out the terminal bolt. The correct number of washers can be determined by hand-tightening the terminal bolt with the cable lug in place and observing the gap. Use enough washers so the stack is slightly larger than the observed gap.

It is crucial that the cable lug and the top surface of the terminal are in contact. Place the washer(s) on top of the lug. Do not place washers between the battery terminal and the cable lug, as this can cause high resistance and excessive heating.

NOTE: Use the included Long Terminal Bolts when securing multiple cable lugs to a single battery terminal.

Installation Environment

Install the battery in a clean, cool, and dry location, away from water, oil, and dirt. Accumulation of these materials can cause current leakage, leading to self-discharge and potential short-circuits. Ensure sufficient airflow to prevent excessive heat buildup and minimize temperature variations between batteries.

Battery Operation

CAUTION:

• DO NOT over-charge or over-discharge the battery.
• DO NOT discharge the battery at temperatures above 140°F (60°C).

Power Button Operation

The battery can switch between active and shelf modes using the Power Button. In shelf mode, a long press (1 second) of the Power Button switches the battery to active mode. The LED Indicator will illuminate after 1-2 seconds of software initialization, confirming the switch to active mode. Verify battery voltage to confirm it is active.

For long-term storage, disconnect the battery from the system and long press the Power Button for 3 seconds to switch it to shelf mode. The LED Indicator will turn off, indicating shelf mode. In shelf mode, the battery has a low self-discharge rate and can maintain its charge longer.

CAUTION: Leave the battery in shelf mode during installation. DO NOT switch to active mode until all connections are confirmed correct and secure. Connecting active batteries to the system may trigger the battery's short-circuit protection.

NOTE: The battery ships in shelf mode. Switch to active mode by charging or using the Power Button after connecting the battery to the system for the first time.

For paralleled batteries, switch to active mode simultaneously by charging or using the Power Button on any battery. To switch paralleled batteries to shelf mode simultaneously, enable communication between them and use the Power Button on the first battery. Otherwise, disconnect the batteries and use the Power Button on each individually.

Identifying Battery Operation Status

The LED Indicator displays the battery's operation status. Refer to the table below for details:

NOTE: Warning statuses do not affect normal battery use, but it is recommended to monitor the battery closely to prevent it from entering protection mode.

Self-heating Function Operation

The self-heating function operates normally when the charge current for each battery in a parallel bank is greater than 3A. It activates automatically when the battery temperature drops below 41°F (5°C) and stops when it rises above 50°F (10°C).

The battery is shipped with the self-heating function enabled. To disable it, switch the battery to shelf mode and long-press the Power Button for 8 seconds. The LED indicator will flash red, yellow, and green 3 times respectively* to confirm disabling. To re-enable, repeat the process; the LED indicator will flash red, yellow, and green sequentially for 3 times** to confirm re-enabling. The battery will automatically switch to active mode after disabling or re-enabling. When disabled, the LED indicator flashes red, yellow, and green 3 times respectively* each time the battery is switched to active mode.

* Red-Red-Red-Yellow-Yellow-Yellow-Green-Green-Green

** Red-Yellow-Green-Red-Yellow-Green-Red-Yellow-Green

CAUTION: The self-heating function must be uniformly disabled or enabled across all batteries in a parallel bank.

NOTE: The self-heating function can be disabled or enabled individually for each battery in a parallel bank. If using a PWM charge controller or a small current battery charger at low temperatures, it is recommended to disable the self-heating function to prevent frequent activation/deactivation and battery consumption.

Charging Batteries

CAUTION:

• DO NOT exceed the maximum charge current.
• ONLY charge the battery with a charger or charge controller compatible with lithium iron phosphate batteries.

NOTE: The battery's state of charge may vary due to manufacturing and shipping times. Fully charge the battery before initial use.

During standard charging, the battery is initially charged at a constant current of 10A until the voltage reaches 54V. It is then charged at a constant voltage of 54V with tapering current. Charging is considered complete when the current drops below 1A. Float charging helps balance cells and does not harm the battery. The standard charging process typically takes 7 hours. Safe charging requires battery temperatures below 131°F (55°C). If the self-heating function is disabled or malfunctioning, battery temperatures above 32°F (0°C) are also required for safe charging.

Discharging Batteries

CAUTION:

• DO NOT exceed the maximum discharge current.
• DO NOT connect large loads when the battery is running low.
• If the battery shuts off due to low state of charge (SoC), disconnect it from discharge equipment to eliminate parasitic loads and charge it as soon as possible. Failure to do so can cause irreversible battery damage.

It is recommended to pair the battery with discharge equipment featuring low voltage disconnect.

During standard discharging, the battery discharges at a constant current of 10A until the voltage reaches 41.62V. Safe discharging requires battery temperatures between -4°F and 140°F (-20°C and 60°C).

Battery Maintenance

Inspection

Perform regular visual inspections:

• Examine the battery's external appearance. Ensure the top and terminals are clean, dry, and free of corrosion.
• Check battery cables and connections. Replace damaged cables and tighten any loose connections.

CAUTION: Terminal corrosion can negatively impact battery performance and pose a safety hazard. Keep terminals free of corrosion.

Cleaning

Clean the battery at regular intervals:

• Disconnect the battery from the charging source or electric load.
• Switch the battery to shelf mode using the Power Button.
• Clean the battery top and terminals with a damp cloth or non-metallic brush. A household cleaner can be used for heavily soiled batteries.
• Dry the battery with a clean cloth and ensure the surrounding area is clean and dry.
• Confirm the battery is completely dry before switching to active mode or reconnecting to the charging source or electric load.

Checking Voltage

Periodically check the battery voltage to assess its health. If the resting voltage in active mode at room temperature is below 41.62V, the battery may be over-discharged due to self-discharge or parasitic loads. Stop using the battery until the fault is corrected and it can be charged.

Battery Storage

Follow these tips for optimal battery storage:

• Charge the battery to 30%-50% and switch to shelf mode using the Power Button.
• Disconnect the battery from discharge equipment to eliminate potential parasitic loads.
• Store the battery in an open, well-ventilated, dry, and clean area at temperatures between -13°F~149°F (-25°C~65°C).
• Handle the battery carefully to avoid sharp impacts or excessive pressure on the casing.
• Charge the battery at least once every 3-6 months to prevent over-discharge.
• Fully charge the battery before use after removing it from storage.

CAUTION:

• DO NOT expose the battery to temperatures exceeding 149°F (65°C).
• DO NOT expose the battery to heat sources.
• DO NOT expose the battery to direct sunlight, moisture, or precipitation.

Battery Management System

Warning and Protection

The battery features a Battery Management System (BMS) that provides warnings and protection against over-voltage, under-voltage, over-current, short circuit, high temperature, and low temperature. Refer to the table below for triggering and recovery conditions:

Battery Cell Balancing

The battery utilizes a bypass circuit to maintain balance between battery cell groups. Each group is connected in parallel with a bypass resistor and switch. During charging, if the highest-voltage cell group reaches the balancing start voltage and the voltage difference between the highest and lowest voltage groups exceeds the set threshold, the switch to the highest-voltage group closes, shunting charge current through the bypass resistor until the voltage difference reduces. To minimize energy loss, cell balancing occurs only during the charging process.

Troubleshooting

Refer to the following instructions for issues during battery operation or contact Renogy for assistance:

• Power Button Issues: If the Power Button cannot switch the battery to active mode or the resting voltage is below 41.62V at room temperature, the battery may be severely over-discharged. Revive it using a charger or charge controller with lithium battery activation.
• Zero Terminal Voltage: If the battery terminal voltage shows 0V in active mode, the internal fuses may have blown due to severe over-current. Contact Renogy for assistance.
• Low Voltage: If the battery voltage is too low to power loads or triggers under-voltage protection, disconnect it from loads and charge it promptly.
• Temperature Protection: If the battery temperature triggers high/low temperature protection, disconnect it from the charging source and loads. Cool down or warm up the battery to room temperature for automatic recovery.
• Over-current Protection: If excessive current triggers charge/discharge over-current protection, disconnect from the source/load immediately. The battery will recover automatically after 1 minute. If triggered 3 consecutive times, automatic recovery is disabled. Recharge/discharge with a current greater than 1A to recover.
• Short Circuit Protection: If a short circuit triggers protection, remove the short circuit immediately and charge with a current greater than 1A to recover.

Specifications

General

Operation Parameters