RENOGY Core Series

Before Getting Started

The user manual provides important operation and maintenance instructions for the Renogy Core Series 12.8V 100Ah Deep Cycle Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery (hereinafter referred to as battery). Read the user manual carefully before operation and save it for future reference. Failure to observe the instructions or precautions in the user manual can result in electrical shock, serious injury, or death, or can damage the battery, potentially rendering it inoperable.

• Renogy ensures the accuracy, sufficiency, and applicability of information in the user manual at the time of printing due to continual product improvements.
• Renogy assumes no responsibility or liability for personal and property losses caused by the user's failure to install and use the product in compliance with the user manual.
• Renogy is not responsible or liable for any failure, damage, or injury resulting from repair attempts by unqualified personnel, improper installation, or inappropriate operation.
• Illustrations are for demonstration purposes only; details may appear slightly different depending on product revision and market region.
• Renogy reserves the right to change information without notice. For the latest manual, visit renogy.com.

Disclaimer

Renogy Core Series 12.8V 100Ah Deep Cycle Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery User Manual © 2024 Renogy. All rights reserved.

RENOGY and RENOGY are registered trademarks of Renogy.

• All information is subject to copyright and intellectual property rights of Renogy and its licensors. The user manual may not be modified, reproduced, or copied without prior written permission.
• Registered trademarks are the property of Renogy. Unauthorized use is strictly prohibited.

Online Manual

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Symbols Used

The following symbols are used throughout the user manual to highlight important information:

• WARNING: Indicates a potentially dangerous condition which could result in injury or death.
• CAUTION: Indicates a critical procedure for safe and proper installation and operation.
• NOTE: Indicates an important step or tip for optimal performance.

Introduction

The Renogy Core Series 12.8V 100Ah Deep Cycle Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery is designed as a direct replacement for deep-cycle lead-acid batteries with its standard Battery Council International (BCI) group size. Weighing half of lead-acid counterparts, it can be safely discharged to 100% Depth of Discharge (DOD), delivering twice the energy. Manufactured with automotive-grade battery cells, it features high safety standards and an extended 5000+ cycle life. The reliable Battery Management System (BMS) provides comprehensive protection.

Key Features

• Unparalleled Performance: Greater energy density, deeper discharge capability, higher round-trip efficiency, and faster charging speed in a smaller size.
• Uncompromising Quality: Exceptional lifespan with over 5000 cycles (80% DOD), 100A continuous charge/discharge current, and wide operating temperatures with automotive-grade cells.
• Reliable Protection Mechanisms: Sturdy internal structure for RV use, including low temperature cut-off and precise balancing via the BMS.
• Higher Capacity than Competitors: 106Ah instead of 100Ah for longer applications.
• Easy to Expand: Seamless upgrades with standard BCI group sizes; up to 16 batteries in 4 series and 4 parallel connections for a maximum of 48V (51.2V) 400Ah (20.48 kWh).

SKU

What's In the Box?

The package includes:

• Renogy Core Series 12.8V 100Ah Deep Cycle Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery x 1
• User Manual x 1
• Insulating Sleeve x 2
• Long Terminal Bolt x 2

Diagram Description: An illustration shows the Renogy Core Series battery, the user manual booklet, two red and grey insulating sleeves, and two terminal bolts with M8*1.25*20 mm specifications.

ℹ️ Make sure that all accessories are complete and free of any signs of damage.

Required Tools & Accessories

Prior to installing and configuring the battery, prepare the recommended tools, components, and accessories:

• Wrench (9/16 inches)
• Battery Adapter Cables x 2
• Insulating Gloves
• Multimeter

Diagram Description: Illustrations show a wrench with a 14mm marking, two red and black battery adapter cables with M8 connectors, a pair of insulating gloves, and a multimeter with probes.

ℹ️ For how to size battery adapter cables, refer to “How to Size Battery Adapter Cables?” in this manual.

Get to Know Deep Cycle Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery

Diagram Description: An illustration of the Renogy Core Series battery shows the Positive Terminal (M8) and Negative Terminal (M8) on top, along with Lift Handles on the sides.

Dimensions

Diagram Description: The battery dimensions are shown: Length 10.24 in (260 mm), Height 8.31 in (211 mm), and Width 6.65 in (169 mm). A note indicates a dimension tolerance of ±0.2 in (0.5 mm).

How to Size Battery Adapter Cables?

Use appropriately sized Battery Adapter Cables (sold separately) based on expected load. Refer to the table below for copper cable ampacities with different gauge sizes.

ℹ️ The above values are from the NEC Table 310.17 for copper cables rated at 194°F (90°C), operating at an ambient temperature of no more than 86°F (30°C). Cables longer than 13 feet (4000 mm) may require thicker gauge wires to prevent excessive voltage drop in undersized wiring.

Fix the Battery to a Position (Optional)

Securing the battery prevents damage from loose cables and bumps. Recommended Components include a Battery Tray, Tie Down Strap, and Mounting Screws (x4).

Diagram Description: Illustrations show a battery tray, a tie-down strap, and four mounting screws. An additional diagram shows a battery being secured in place with a tie-down strap.

ℹ️ Alternative mounting methods are allowed to meet the requirements of specific applications.

Installation Steps

Step 1. Plan a Mounting Site

For optimal performance, install the battery in a clean, cool, and dry location, free from water, oil, or dirt accumulation, which can lead to current leakage, self-discharge, or short-circuiting.

Diagram Description: An illustration shows a battery in an enclosed space with arrows indicating air cross-flow from vents. Icons represent environmental conditions: 'KEEP DRY', 'FRAGILE', 'VENTILATION'. Charge temperature range: 32°F-131°F (0°C-55°C). Discharge temperature range: -4°F-140°F (-20°C-60°C). Humidity: 10%-95%.

ℹ️ Sufficient air flow must be provided to prevent excessive heat build-up and to minimize temperature variation between connected batteries.

ℹ️ This manual uses a battery as an example to illustrate installation.

Step 2. Wear Insulating Gloves

Diagram Description: An illustration shows a Renogy battery and a pair of orange insulating gloves.

Step 3. Remove the Dust Cover.

Diagram Description: An illustration shows the battery terminals with dust covers, followed by the terminals without dust covers.

Step 4. Check the Battery

Inspect the battery for any visible damage including cracks, dents, deformation, and other abnormalities. Ensure all connector contacts are clean, dry, and free of dirt and corrosion.

⚠️ Do not touch exposed electrolyte or powder if the battery is damaged.

⚠️ If uncovered electrolyte or powder contacts skin or eyes, flush immediately with plenty of clean water and seek medical attention.

Step 5. Run the Battery Adapter Cables Through the Insulating Sleeves

Diagram Description: An illustration shows battery adapter cables with red and grey connectors being inserted into insulating sleeves.

Step 6. Install Battery Terminals

Diagram Description: An illustration shows how to connect battery adapter cables using long terminal bolts, spring washers, and flat washers. A torque specification of 10 N·m is indicated.

Ensure the cable lug and terminal top surface are in contact. Place washers on top of the lug, not between the terminal and lug, to avoid high resistance and heating.

⚠️ Avoid short-circuiting battery terminals to prevent irreversible damage.

ℹ️ Verify polarity before wiring to avoid damage due to polarity reversal.

ℹ️ Follow manufacturer's recommended torque specifications. Over-tightening can cause terminal breakage; loose connections can lead to meltdown or fire. Use Long Terminal Bolts for multiple cable lugs on a single terminal.

Step 7. Install the Insulating Sleeves

Diagram Description: An illustration shows insulating sleeves being placed over the connected battery terminals.

Step 8. Connect the Battery to Other Devices

⚠️ Please use appropriately sized circuit breakers, fuses, or disconnects by a certified electrician, licensed installers, or regional code authorities to protect all electrical equipment.

For a Single Battery: Diagram Description: Shows a single Renogy battery connected via a battery fuse to an Inverter, DC-DC Charger, DC Distribution Panel, and Charge Controller.

For Batteries in Parallel: Diagram Description: Shows two Renogy batteries connected in parallel, with a battery fuse, leading to an Inverter, DC-DC Charger, DC Distribution Panel, and Charge Controller.

For Batteries in Series: Diagram Description: Shows two Renogy batteries connected in series, with a battery fuse, leading to an Inverter, DC-DC Charger, DC Distribution Panel, and Charge Controller.

How to Connect Renogy Core Batteries in Series or Parallel

Calculate Voltage and Current in Series and Parallel Connections

Parallel Connection: Four 12.8V 100Ah batteries connected in parallel result in a 12V (12.8V) 400Ah system. System Voltage: 12.8V. System Current: Sum of individual battery currents.

Series Connection: Four 12.8V 100Ah batteries connected in series result in a 48V (51.2V) 100Ah system. System Voltage: Sum of individual battery voltages. System Current: 100A.

⚠️ Do not connect batteries with different chemistries, capacities, voltages, brands, or models in parallel or series, as this can damage batteries, devices, and pose safety risks.

ℹ️ Avoid connecting batteries purchased more than half a year apart, as performance may degrade.

ℹ️ Cables between batteries should be of equal length for optimal performance.

ℹ️ You can connect up to 8 batteries in parallel or 4 batteries in series.

Balance Batteries Prior to Connection

Before connecting batteries in series or parallel, balance them to reduce voltage differences and optimize performance. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Charge each battery individually to its full capacity using a suitable charger.

Diagram Description: An illustration shows a Renogy battery being connected to a DC-DC charger and charge controller, with a battery fuse in line.

Step 2: Use a voltmeter to measure the voltage of each battery. Aim for a voltage difference of less than 0.1V between batteries.

Diagram Description: An illustration shows a voltmeter connected to a battery, displaying a reading of 13.5V.

Step 3: Connect all batteries in parallel and allow them to rest together for 12 to 24 hours.

Diagram Description: An illustration shows three batteries connected in parallel, with a clock indicating 12-24h.

ℹ️ Periodically rebalance battery voltages every six months. Slight voltage differences can occur over time due to battery chemistry, capacity, temperature, and usage patterns.

Series Connection vs. Parallel Connection – Installation Steps

ℹ️ Suitable busbars can be used for series and parallel connections to handle high currents and distribute power efficiently.

ℹ️ Connection methods are for reference; optimal approach may vary based on cable size, equipment, and environmental conditions.

Parallel Connection: Diagram Description: Shows two batteries connected in parallel using red and black cables.

Series Connection: Diagram Description: Shows two batteries connected in series using yellow and red cables.

Battery Connection Configurations

Parallel Connection:

• 2P: Battery System 12V (12.8V) 200Ah, Energy 2560Wh
• 8P: Battery System 12V (12.8V) 800Ah, Energy 10240Wh

Series Connection:

• 2S: Battery System 24V (25.6V) 100Ah, Energy 2560Wh
• 4S: Battery System 48V (51.2V) 100Ah, Energy 5120Wh

Parallel & Series Connection:

• 2P2S: Battery System 24V (25.6V) 200Ah, Energy 5120Wh
• 2P4S: Battery System 48V (51.2V) 200Ah, Energy 10240Wh
• 4P2S: Battery System 24V (25.6V) 400Ah, Energy 10240Wh

Diagram Descriptions: Detailed illustrations show the wiring for 2P, 8P, 2S, 4S, 2P2S, 2P4S, and 4P2S configurations, indicating positive (+) and negative (-) terminal connections.

Battery Cell Balancing

The battery uses a bypass circuit to maintain balance between cell groups. Each cell group has a bypass resistor and switch in parallel. During charging, if the highest-voltage cell group reaches the balancing start voltage and exceeds the voltage difference threshold, its switch closes to shunt charge current through the resistor until the voltage difference drops. This process minimizes energy loss and occurs only during charging.

Charging/Discharging Parameter Settings

Charge Parameters

Discharge Parameters

ℹ️ Parameters are for 12V (12.8V) packs. Multiply by 2 for 24V (25.6V) and by 4 for 48V (51.2V) packs.

Battery Charging and Discharging Logic

The battery may be received at a partial state of charge (SOC). Fully charge it before initial use. If the battery shuts off due to low SOC, disconnect it from loads and charge it promptly to prevent irreversible damage. Follow manual instructions for proper charging and usage for optimal performance and longevity.

Charging Logic

The standard charging process involves charging at a constant current of 50A until the battery voltage reaches 14.4V, then charging at a constant voltage of 14.4V while the current tapers. Charging is complete when the current drops below 5A (tail current). This process typically takes 2.5 hours and requires battery temperatures between 32°F and 131°F (0°C and 55°C). Float charging helps balance cells without damage.

Diagram Description: A graph shows 'Current' decreasing from 50A to 5A as 'Voltage' increases from an initial value to a constant 14.4V, illustrating constant current followed by constant voltage charging.

ℹ️ Lithium batteries are compatible with MPPT charge controllers, AC chargers, and DC-DC chargers. Set charge voltage, boost voltage, or bulk voltage at 14.4V (±0.2V).

⚠️ Do not overcharge or overdischarge the battery.

⚠️ Do not charge below 32°F (0°C) or discharge above 140°F (60°C).

⚠️ Only use chargers/controllers compatible with lithium iron phosphate batteries.

⚠️ Do not exceed the maximum continuous charge current (100A).

Discharging Logic

During standard discharging, the battery discharges at a constant current of 50A until the voltage drops to 10V. For safe discharging, the battery temperature should be between -4°F (-20°C) and 131°F (60°C).

ℹ️ Pair the battery with discharge equipment featuring a low voltage disconnect (LVD) function for safe and optimal usage.

⚠️ Do not connect large loads when the battery is running low.

⚠️ Do not exceed the maximum continuous discharge current (100A).

How to Estimate the Battery SOC?

SOC values are estimated based on resting voltage after 30 minutes of inactivity (not charging or discharging).

ℹ️ This table is for reference; slight variations in battery voltage may occur.

Battery Management System

The battery is equipped with a Battery Management System (BMS) providing warnings and protections against overvoltage, undervoltage, overcurrent, short circuit, high temperature, and low temperature conditions. Refer to the table below for trigger and recovery conditions.

Troubleshooting

ℹ️ For further assistance, contact Renogy technical support service at https://www.renogy.com/contact-us.

Specifications

General

Operation Parameters

Maintenance & Storage

Inspection

Perform regular inspections:

• Examine the battery's external appearance, housing, and terminals for cleanliness, dryness, and freedom from corrosion.
• Check battery cables and connections. Replace damaged cables and tighten loose connections.

ℹ️ In some scenarios, terminal corrosion may occur, causing increased resistance and poor contact. Regularly apply insulation grease to terminals for a moisture-resistant seal and protection.

Cleaning

Clean the battery at regular intervals:

• Disconnect the battery from the system.
• Clear leaves and debris from the battery.
• Clean with a soft, lint-free cloth. Dampen with water or mild soap and water if very dirty.
• Dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
• Keep the area around the battery clean.
• Reconnect the battery to the system.

Checking Voltage

Periodically check battery voltage to assess health. If the battery cannot be activated with a charge/discharge current greater than 1A or shows a resting voltage below 10V, it may have been severely overdischarged. Stop using the battery until the fault is corrected and it can be charged.

Storage

To ensure the battery emerges from storage in good condition:

• Charge the battery to 30% to 50% SOC.
• Disconnect the battery from the system.
• Store in a well-ventilated, dry, clean area between -13°F (-25°C) and 149°F (65°C).
• Do not expose to direct sunlight, moisture, or precipitation.
• Handle carefully to avoid sharp impacts or extreme pressure.
• Charge at least once every 3-6 months to prevent overdischarge.
• Fully charge the battery when taking it out of storage.

Important Safety Instructions

General Safety

The manufacturer accepts no liability for damage caused by:

• Force majeure (fire, typhoon, flood, earthquake, war, terrorism).
• Intentional or accidental misuse, abuse, neglect, improper maintenance, or use under abnormal conditions.
• Improper installation, operation, or peripheral device malfunction.
• Contamination with hazardous substances or radiation.
• Alterations to the product without express written consent.

General Precautions:

• Wear proper protective equipment and use insulated tools during installation and operation.
• Do not wear jewelry or other metal objects when working on or around the battery.
• Keep the battery out of reach of children.
• Dispose of the battery according to local, state, and federal laws and regulations, using recycling channels.
• In case of fire, use an FM-200 or CO2 fire extinguisher.
• Do not expose the battery to flammable or harsh chemicals or vapors.
• Clean the battery regularly.
• Recommended cable length should not exceed 10 meters to avoid voltage drop.
• Cable specifications in quick guides account for critical, less than 3% voltage drop and may not cover all configurations.
• Do not expose the battery to strong electrostatic fields, magnetic fields, or radiation.

Battery Safety

• Keep the battery away from water, heat sources, sparks, and hazardous chemicals.
• Do not puncture, drop, crush, burn, penetrate, shake, strike, or step on the battery.
• Do not open, dismantle, repair, tamper with, or modify the battery.
• Do not touch any terminals or connectors.
• Ensure any battery charger or charge controller is disconnected before working on the battery.
• Do not connect or disconnect terminals without first disconnecting loads.
• Do not place tools on top of the battery.
• Use suitable handling equipment for safe transportation.
• Do not insert foreign objects into the positive and negative terminals.

Renogy Support

To discuss inaccuracies or omissions, visit or contact us at:

• renogy.com/support/downloads
• contentservice@renogy.com

For technical questions in the U.S., contact Renogy technical support:

• renogy.com/contact-us
• 1(909)2877111

For technical support outside the U.S., visit local websites:

• Canada: ca.renogy.com
• China: www.renogy.cn
• Australia: au.renogy.com
• Japan: renogy.jp
• South Korea: kr.renogy.com
• Germany: de.renogy.com
• United Kingdom: uk.renogy.com
• Other Europe: eu.renogy.com

FCC Statement

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and
2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

1. Orient or relocate the receiving antenna.
2. Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
3. Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
4. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

FCC Radiation Exposure Statement

This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance 20cm between the radiator & your body.

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