RENOGY Core Series

User Manual

This user manual provides important operation and maintenance instructions for the Renogy Core Series 12.8V 200Ah Deep Cycle Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery. Please read carefully before operation and save for future reference. Failure to observe instructions may result in electrical shock, serious injury, or death, or damage to the battery.

NOTE: Renogy ensures the accuracy of information at the time of printing. Renogy is not liable for losses due to improper installation or use. Illustrations are for demonstration purposes only.

For the latest user manual, visit renogy.com.

Disclaimer

Renogy Core Series 12.8V 200Ah Deep Cycle Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery User Manual © 2023 Renogy. All rights reserved. RENOGY is a registered trademark of Renogy. All information is subject to copyright and intellectual property rights of Renogy and its licensors. Unauthorized use of trademarks is strictly prohibited.

An online manual is available at renogy.com.

Symbols Used

• ⚠ 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.
• ℹ NOTE: Indicates an important step or tip for optimal performance.

Introduction

The Renogy Core Series 12.8V 200Ah Deep Cycle Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery is designed as a direct replacement for deep-cycle lead-acid batteries, fitting standard Battery Council International (BCI) group sizes. It weighs half as much as lead-acid counterparts, can be safely discharged to 100% Depth of Discharge (DOD), and delivers twice the energy. Manufactured with automotive-grade battery cells, it offers high safety standards and an extended 5000+ cycle life. The integrated Battery Management System (BMS) provides comprehensive protection.

Key Features

• Unparalleled Performance: Greater energy density, deeper discharge capability, higher round-trip efficiency, and faster charging in a compact size.
• Uncompromising Quality: Exceptional lifespan (>5000 cycles at 80% DOD), continuous charge current of 100A, continuous discharge current of 200A, and wide operating temperature range.
• Reliable Protection Mechanisms: Sturdy internal structure for RV use, with multiple protection levels including low temperature cut-off and BMS balancing.
• Higher Capacity than Competitors: Offers 212Ah instead of 200Ah for longer applications.
• Easy to Expand: Seamless upgrades with standard BCI group sizes. Supports up to 16 batteries (4 series, 4 parallels) for a maximum of 48V (51.2V) 800Ah or 40.96 kWh.

SKU

Renogy Core Series 12.8V 200Ah Deep Cycle Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery: RBT12200LFP-US

What's In the Box?

The package includes:

• Renogy Core Series 12.8V 200Ah Deep Cycle Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery x 1
• User Manual x 1
• Insulating Sleeve x 2
• Long Terminal Bolt x 2 (M8*1.25*20 mm)

NOTE: Ensure all accessories are complete and free of any signs of damage.

Required Tools & Accessories

• Wrench (7/16 inches)
• Battery Adapter Cables x 2
• Insulating Gloves
• Multimeter

NOTE: Prior to installation, prepare recommended tools, components, and accessories. Refer to "How to Size Battery Adapter Cables?" for cable sizing.

Get to Know Deep Cycle Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery

Battery Terminals: Features M8 positive and negative terminals. Includes lift handles for easier transport.

Dimensions

The battery dimensions are:

• Length: 20.55 inches (522 mm)
• Width: 9.45 inches (240 mm)
• Height: 8.62 inches (219 mm)

NOTE: Dimension tolerance: ±0.2 inches (0.5 mm).

How to Size Battery Adapter Cables?

Use appropriately sized Battery Adapter Cables based on expected load. Refer to the table below for copper cable ampacities:

NOTE: Values are from NEC Table 310.17 for copper cables rated at 194°F (90°C) at ambient temperatures up to 86°F (30°C). Longer cables may require thicker gauge wires to prevent voltage drop.

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). Alternative mounting methods are permitted for specific applications.

Installation Illustration: Shows a battery being secured in a tray with a tie-down strap.

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 to prevent current leakage, self-discharge, and short-circuiting.

Environmental Considerations:

• KEEP DRY: Protect from moisture.
• FRAGILE: Handle with care.
• VENTILATION: Ensure adequate airflow.

Operating Temperature Ranges:

• Charge: 32°F to 131°F (0°C to 55°C)
• Discharge: -4°F to 140°F (-20°C to 60°C)

Operating Relative Humidity: 10% to 95%

NOTE: Sufficient airflow is crucial to prevent heat buildup and temperature variations. The manual uses a single battery as an example for installation illustration.

Step 2. Wear Insulating Gloves

Always wear insulating gloves when handling the battery.

Step 3. Remove the Dust Cover

Remove the protective dust cover from the battery terminals.

Step 4. Check the Battery

Inspect the battery for any visible damage (cracks, dents, deformation). Ensure connector contacts are clean, dry, and free of corrosion.

WARNING: Do not touch exposed electrolyte or powder if the battery is damaged. If contact occurs with skin or eyes, flush immediately with clean water and seek medical attention.

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

Feed the battery adapter cables through the provided insulating sleeves before connecting them to the terminals.

Step 6. Install Battery Terminals

Attach the battery adapter cables to the terminals using the provided long terminal bolts, spring washers, and flat washers. Tighten to a recommended torque of 10 N·m (88.5-106.2 inch-lbs).

NOTE: Ensure the cable lug contacts the terminal surface. Do not place washers between the lug and terminal to avoid high resistance. Verify polarity before connecting. Over-tightening can cause terminal breakage; loose connections can lead to meltdown or fire. Use long terminal bolts for multiple cable lugs.

Step 7. Install the Insulating Sleeves

Install the insulating sleeves over the connected terminals for protection.

Step 8. Connect the Battery to Other Devices

CAUTION: Use circuit breakers, fuses, or disconnects appropriately sized by a certified electrician or according to regional code authorities to protect all electrical equipment.

Connection Diagrams:

• For a Single Battery: Battery connected via a battery fuse to an inverter and DC-DC charger, which are part of a DC distribution panel and charge controller system.
• For Batteries in Parallel: Multiple batteries connected in parallel, each with a battery fuse, to the inverter and DC-DC charger system.
• For Batteries in Series: Multiple batteries connected in series, each with a battery fuse, to the inverter and DC-DC charger system.

How to Connect Renogy Core Batteries in Series or Parallel

Calculate Voltage and Current in Series and Parallel Connections

Parallel Connection: Connecting batteries in parallel increases capacity (Ah) while maintaining voltage. For example, four 12.8V 200Ah batteries in parallel result in a 12.8V 800Ah system.

Series Connection: Connecting batteries in series increases voltage while maintaining capacity. For example, four 12.8V 200Ah batteries in series result in a 51.2V (48V) 200Ah system.

WARNING: Do not connect batteries of different chemistries, capacities, voltages, brands, or models. Avoid connecting batteries purchased more than six months apart. Ensure all connecting cables are of equal length.

NOTE: Up to 8 batteries can be connected in parallel, or 4 in series.

Balance Batteries Prior to Connection

Balancing reduces voltage differences and optimizes performance. Follow these steps:

1. Charge each battery individually to its full capacity using a suitable charger.
2. Use a voltmeter to measure the voltage of each battery. Aim for a difference of less than 0.1V between batteries.
3. Connect all batteries in parallel and allow them to rest together for 12 to 24 hours.

NOTE: Periodically rebalance battery voltages every six months, as differences can occur over time due to chemistry, capacity, temperature, and usage.

Series Connection vs. Parallel Connection — Installation Steps

Busbars are recommended for handling high currents in series and parallel connections. The following methods are for reference; specific situations may require adjustments.

Parallel Connection Illustration: Shows batteries connected positive-to-positive and negative-to-negative.

Series Connection Illustration: Shows batteries connected positive-to-negative.

Parallel & Series Connection Diagrams: Illustrate various configurations like 2P, 8P, 2S, 4S, 2P2S, 2P4S, and 4P2S, detailing system voltage and energy capacity.

Battery Cell Balancing

The battery uses a bypass circuit with resistors and switches to maintain balance between cell groups. During charging, if a cell group's voltage exceeds a set threshold and differs from other groups, its switch closes to shunt charge current around it, equalizing voltages.

Charging/Discharging Parameter Settings

NOTE: 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

Batteries may arrive at a partial state of charge (SOC). Fully charge before initial use. If the battery shuts off due to low SOC, disconnect from loads and charge promptly to prevent irreversible damage.

Charging Logic

The standard charging process starts with a constant current of 100A until voltage reaches 14.4V, then switches to a constant voltage of 14.4V, tapering the current. Charging is complete when current drops below 10A (tail current). This process takes approximately 2.5 hours and requires temperatures between 32°F and 131°F (0°C to 55°C). Float charging helps balance cells.

Charging Curve Illustration: Shows current decreasing from 100A to 10A as voltage rises to 14.4V, transitioning from constant current to constant voltage.

NOTE: Lithium batteries are compatible with MPPT, AC, and DC-DC chargers. Set charge/boost/bulk voltage to 14.4V (±0.2V). Do not overcharge or overdischarge. Avoid charging below 32°F (0°C) and discharging above 140°F (60°C). Use only chargers compatible with lithium iron phosphate batteries. Do not exceed the maximum continuous charge current of 100A.

Discharging Logic

Discharging occurs at a constant current of 100A until voltage drops to 10V. Maintain battery temperature between -4°F (-20°C) and 131°F (60°C) for safe discharging. It is recommended to use equipment with a low voltage disconnect (LVD) function. Avoid connecting large loads when the battery is low. Do not exceed the maximum continuous discharge current of 200A.

How to Estimate the Battery SOC?

State of Charge (SOC) can be estimated based on resting voltage (after 30 minutes of no charging or discharging):

NOTE: Table is for reference; slight voltage variations may occur.

Battery Management System

The BMS provides protections against overvoltage, undervoltage, overcurrent, short circuit, high temperature, and low temperature conditions. Refer to the table for trigger and recovery conditions:

Troubleshooting

For further assistance, contact Renogy technical support at renogy.com/contact-us.

Specifications

General

Operation Parameters

Maintenance & Storage

Inspection

• Examine the battery's external appearance; housing and terminals should be clean, dry, and free of corrosion.
• Check battery cables and connections; replace damaged cables and tighten loose connections.

NOTE: Corrosion around terminals can increase resistance. Apply insulation grease to terminals for a moisture-resistant seal.

Cleaning

• Disconnect the battery from the system.
• Clear debris from the battery.
• Clean with a soft, lint-free cloth, dampened 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. If the battery cannot be activated with a current >1A or has a resting voltage <10V, it may be severely overdischarged. Stop using until corrected and charged.

Storage

• 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).
• Avoid direct sunlight, moisture, or precipitation.
• Handle carefully to avoid impacts or pressure on the housing.
• Charge at least once every 3 to 6 months to prevent overdischarge.
• Fully charge when taking out of storage.

Important Safety Instructions

General Safety

• Wear proper protective equipment and insulated tools. Avoid jewelry or metal objects near the battery.
• Keep the battery out of reach of children.
• Do not dispose of as household waste; comply with local regulations and use recycling channels.
• In case of fire, use an FM-200 or CO2 fire extinguisher.
• Do not expose to flammable or harsh chemicals or vapors.
• Clean the battery regularly.
• Recommended cable length: not exceeding 10 meters to avoid voltage drop.
• Do not expose to strong electrostatic fields, magnetic fields, or radiation.

Battery Safety

• Keep 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 battery charger/controller is disconnected before working on the battery.
• Do not connect/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 terminals.

Renogy Support

For inaccuracies or omissions, visit renogy.com/support/downloads or contact contentservice@renogy.com.

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

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

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

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

FCC Statement

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) it may not cause harmful interference, and (2) it must accept any interference received. This equipment has been tested and complies with Class B digital device limits, providing reasonable protection against harmful interference in residential installations. If interference occurs, try orienting the antenna, increasing separation, connecting to a different circuit, or consulting a technician.

FCC Radiation Exposure Statement

This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits for uncontrolled environments. Maintain a minimum distance of 20cm between the radiator and your body.

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Certifications shown include UN38.3, UKCA, CE, RoHS, FCC, and PSE.

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