Renogy Core LT (Low Temperature) Series Deep Cycle Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery

Before Getting Started

This user manual provides important operation and maintenance instructions for the Renogy Core LT (Low Temperature) Series 12.8V 300Ah Deep Cycle Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery (referred to as 'battery'). Read the manual carefully before operation and save it for future reference. Failure to observe instructions or precautions may result in electrical shock, serious injury, or death, or damage to the battery.

• Renogy ensures the accuracy and applicability of information at the time of printing, subject to product improvements.
• Renogy assumes no liability for losses caused by failure to install or use the product in compliance with the manual.
• Renogy is not responsible for failures resulting from repairs by unqualified personnel, improper installation, or inappropriate operation.
• Illustrations are for demonstration; details may vary by product revision and region.
• Renogy reserves the right to change information without notice. Visit renogy.com for the latest manual.

Disclaimer

Renogy Core LT (Low Temperature) Series 12.8V 300Ah Deep Cycle Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery User Manual © 2023 Renogy. All rights reserved. RENOGY and RENOGY are registered trademarks of Renogy.

• All information is subject to Renogy's copyright and intellectual property rights. The manual may not be modified, reproduced, or copied without prior written permission.
• Registered trademarks are property of Renogy; unauthorized use is prohibited.

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Introduction

The Renogy Core LT (Low Temperature) Series 12.8V 300Ah Deep Cycle Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery is designed as a direct replacement for deep-cycle lead-acid batteries, adhering to the standard Battery Council International (BCI) group size. 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 smaller size.
• Uncompromising Quality: Exceptional lifespan (>5000 cycles at 80% DOD), continuous charge/discharge current of 200A, and wide operating temperature range due to automotive-grade cells.
• Reliable Protection Mechanisms: Sturdy internal structure for RV use, with multiple protection levels including low temperature cut-off and precise balancing via the smart BMS.
• Intelligent High Power Self-heating Function: Equipped with a 200W self-heating function for charging at low temperatures.
• Easy to Expand: Supports seamless upgrades with standard BCI group sizes. Up to 16 batteries can be connected in 4 series and 4 parallel configurations, delivering up to 48V (51.2V) 1200Ah with 61.44 kWh.

SKU

What's In the Box?

The package includes:

• Renogy Core LT (Low Temperature) Series 12.8V 300Ah 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 terminal bolts

[!] Make sure that all accessories are complete and free of any signs of damage.

Required Tools & Accessories

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

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

[!] 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

The battery features a Negative Terminal (M8) and a Positive Terminal (M8). It also includes Lift Handles for easier transport.

Dimensions

The battery dimensions are:

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

[!] Dimension tolerance: ±0.2 in (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 with different gauge sizes.

[!] The values are from NEC Table 310.17 for copper cables rated at 194°F (90°C), operating at ambient temperatures up to 86°F (30°C). Cables longer than 13 feet (4000 mm) may require thicker gauge wires to prevent excessive 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.

[!] Alternative mounting methods are allowed to meet specific application requirements.

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.

Ensure sufficient airflow to prevent excessive heat build-up and minimize temperature variation between connected batteries.

Environmental Considerations:

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

Operating Temperature Ranges:

• Charge: -4°F to 131°F (-20°C to 55°C). Self-heating function activates below 32°F (0°C).
• Discharge: -4°F to 140°F (-20°C to 60°C).
• Humidity: 10% to 95%

[!] This manual uses a battery as an example for installation illustration.

Step 2. Wear Insulating Gloves

Always wear insulating gloves when handling the battery terminals.

Step 3. Remove the Dust Cover.

Carefully remove the protective dust covers from the battery terminals.

Step 4. Check the Battery

Inspect the battery for any visible damage such as cracks, dents, or deformation. Ensure all connector contacts are clean, dry, and free of corrosion.

[WARNING] Do not touch exposed electrolyte or powder if the battery is damaged.

[WARNING] If exposed electrolyte or powder contacts skin or eyes, flush immediately with clean water and seek medical attention.

Step 5. Run the Adapter Cables Through the Insulating Sleeves

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

Step 6. Install Battery Terminals

Connect the battery adapter cables to the terminals using the provided Long Terminal Bolts, Spring Washer, and Flat Washer. Tighten to 10 N-m (or 88.5-106.2 inch-lbs).

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

[WARNING] Avoid short-circuiting battery terminals to prevent irreversible damage.

[WARNING] Verify polarity before wiring to prevent damage from polarity reversal.

[!] Over-tightening can cause terminal breakage; loose connections can lead to meltdown or fire. Use Long Terminal Bolts when securing multiple cable lugs.

Step 7. Install the Insulating Sleeves

Place the insulating sleeves over the connected terminals for protection.

Step 8. Connect the Battery to Other Devices

[WARNING] Use appropriately sized circuit breakers, fuses, or disconnects installed by a certified electrician to protect all electrical equipment.

For a Single Battery: Connect the battery to devices like an Inverter, DC-DC Charger, DC Distribution Panel, and Charge Controller via a battery fuse.

For Batteries in Parallel: Connect multiple batteries in parallel, with each string protected by a battery fuse, to the system components.

For Batteries in Series: Connect multiple batteries in series, with each string protected by a battery fuse, to the system components.

How to Connect Renogy Core Batteries in Series or Parallel

Calculate Voltage and Current in Series and Parallel Connections

Parallel Connection (Example: 4 x 12.8V 300Ah batteries): Results in a 12V (12.8V) 1200Ah system. System Voltage: 12.8V. System Current: Sum of individual battery currents.

Series Connection (Example: 4 x 12.8V 300Ah batteries): Results in a 48V (51.2V) 300Ah system. System Voltage: Sum of individual battery voltages. System Current: 300A.

[WARNING] Do not connect batteries with different chemistries, capacities, voltages, brands, or models in parallel or series, as this can cause damage and safety risks.

[WARNING] Avoid connecting batteries purchased more than six months apart, as performance may degrade.

[!] Cables between connected batteries should be of equal length for optimal performance.

[!] You can connect up to 4 batteries in parallel or 4 batteries in series.

Balance Batteries Prior to Connection

Balancing batteries before series or parallel connection is crucial for optimizing performance. Follow these steps:

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

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

Series Connection vs. Parallel Connection – Installation Steps

[!] Suitable busbars can be used for series and parallel connections to handle high currents efficiently.

[!] Connection methods are for reference; optimal approaches may vary based on specific situations, cable size, equipment, and environmental conditions.

Parallel Connection Examples:

Diagrams illustrate connecting batteries in parallel.

Series Connection Examples:

Diagrams illustrate connecting batteries in series.

Parallel & Series Connection Examples:

Diagrams illustrate combined parallel and series connections.

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 reaches the balancing voltage and exceeds the voltage difference threshold, its switch closes to shunt charge current through a bypass resistor until the voltage difference is reduced.

Charging/Discharging Parameter Settings

Charge Parameters

Discharge Parameters

[!] Parameters are for 12V (12.8V) packs; multiply by 4 for 48V (51.2V) packs.

Battery Charging and Discharging Logic

The battery may arrive 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.

Charging Logic

The standard charging process involves charging at a constant current of 150A until the voltage reaches 14.4V, then constant voltage charging at 14.4V while tapering the current. Charging is complete when the current drops below 15A (tail current). This process typically takes 2.5 hours and requires battery temperatures between 32°F and 131°F (0°C to 55°C). Float charging helps balance cells.

[!] Lithium batteries are compatible with MPPT charge controllers, AC chargers, and DC-DC chargers. Set charge/boost/bulk voltage to 14.4V (±0.2V).

[WARNING] Do not overcharge or overdischarge the battery.

[WARNING] Do not discharge the battery at temperatures above 140°F (60°C).

[WARNING] Only use chargers/controllers compatible with lithium iron phosphate batteries.

[WARNING] Do not exceed the maximum continuous charge current (200A).

Discharging Logic

During standard discharging, the battery delivers a constant current of 200A until the voltage drops to 10V. For safe discharging, battery temperature should be between -4°F (-20°C) and 131°F (60°C).

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

[WARNING] Do not connect large loads when the battery is running low.

[WARNING] Do not exceed the maximum continuous discharge current (200A).

How to Estimate the Battery SOC?

SOC values are estimated based on resting voltage after 30 minutes of no charging or discharging.

[!] Table is for reference; slight variations in battery voltage may occur.

Self-heating Function

The self-heating function requires a stable charge current greater than 10A per battery in a parallel bank. It activates when battery temperature drops below 41°F (5°C) and stops above 50°F (10°C). The temperature rise rate is approximately 64.4°F (18°C) per hour at 200W.

Battery Management System

The battery is equipped with a BMS providing protection 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 service at https://www.renogy.com/contact-us.

Specifications

General

Operation Parameters

Temperature and Humidity

Maintenance & Storage

Inspection

Perform regular inspections:

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

[!] Corrosion around terminals can increase resistance and cause poor contact. Apply insulation grease to terminals for a moisture-resistant seal.

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, 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 to assess health. If the battery cannot be activated with a current >1A or shows a resting voltage below 10V, it may be severely overdischarged. Stop using it until the fault is corrected and it can be charged.

Storage

Ensure the battery is in good condition after 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).
• Do not expose to direct sunlight, moisture, or precipitation.
• Handle carefully to avoid impacts or pressure.
• Charge every 3 to 6 months to prevent overdischarge.
• Fully charge when taking out of storage.

Important Safety Instructions

General Safety

The manufacturer is not liable for damage caused by:

• Force majeure (fire, typhoon, flood, earthquake, war, terrorism).
• Misuse, abuse, neglect, improper maintenance, or use under abnormal conditions.
• Improper installation, operation, or peripheral device malfunction.
• Contamination with hazardous substances or radiation.
• Unauthorized product alterations.

Operational Safety:

• Wear proper protective equipment and use insulated tools.
• Do not wear jewelry or metal objects near the battery.
• Keep the battery out of reach of children.
• Dispose of the battery according to local, state, and federal regulations; use recycling channels.
• In case of fire, use an FM-200 or CO2 fire extinguisher.
• Do not expose the battery to flammable chemicals or vapors.
• Clean the battery regularly.
• Keep all cables under 10 meters to prevent voltage drop.
• Cable specifications account for critical, <3% voltage drop and may not cover all configurations.
• Do not expose the battery to strong electrostatic, 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 terminals or connectors.
• Ensure any 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 battery 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 the Renogy technical support team through renogy.com/contact-us or call 1(909)2877111.

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

• Canada: ca.renogy.com
• Australia: au.renogy.com
• South Korea: kr.renogy.com
• United Kingdom: uk.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) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the responsible party could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

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. If not installed and used per instructions, it may cause harmful interference to radio communications. There is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If interference occurs, try to correct it by:

• Reorienting or relocating the receiving antenna.
• Increasing the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connecting the equipment to a circuit different from the receiver's.
• Consulting a dealer or experienced radio/TV technician.

FCC Radiation Exposure Statement

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

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Renogy reserves the right to change the contents of this manual without notice.