![]() ![]() Based on return information, the charger then determines what charge phase to start in. Most lead-acid chargers "ping" the battery on startup to determine the voltage/resistance of the battery. Just another reason that a standard lead-acid charger doesn't work for lithium batteries. Lithium charge algorithms will normally set a return to Bulk voltage of 13.1-13.2V. At this voltage, the lithium battery will have been depleted to approx 10-15% state of charge. This voltage for a lithium battery is way too low. The "return to bulk" voltage setting in lead-acid chargers is normally 12.5-12.7v. Once the voltage reaches the "return to bulk" voltage, the charger will begin a new charge cycle and re-charge the battery at Bulk Voltage rates. If the loads increase past the charger's maximum output in Float, then the battery voltage will start to reduce. Once the charger is in Float mode, it will maintain the battery at a pre-set voltage (normally between 13.3-13.8v subject to the battery type) and supports any loads running at the time. A 100% full lead-acid battery's voltage is approx 12.7v. ![]() The other function that lead-acid chargers have is a "return to bulk" voltage. Applying an equalization charge of 15v+ to a lithium battery will damage the cells beyond repair. Lithium batteries do not require any form of equalization. On most chargers, this mode is automatic and can't be turned off. Most, if not all, lead-acid chargers have an equalization mode. This system allows fast charging without the risk of over-charging and is required for all Li-ion batteries. The current then reduces as the battery becomes fully charged. The charger limits the amount of current to a pre-set level until the battery reaches a pre-set voltage level. Lithium chargers are based on a CV/CC (constant voltage/constant current) charge algorithm. While lead-acid offers some flexibility in terms of voltage cut-off, manufacturers of LiFePO4 cells are stringent on the correct setting because Li-ion cannot accept overcharge. The differences with Li-ion relate to the higher voltage per cell, tighter voltage tolerances, and the absence of trickle or float charge at full charge. A lithium battery at 20% capacity will hold voltage around 13V lead-acid will be around 11.8v at the same capacity.Ī Lithium LiFePO4 charger is a voltage-limiting device that has similarities to the lead-acid system. ![]() A lead-acid battery will be around 12.6-12.7v. While the PEC may safely "charge" Lithium batteries (somewhat), as stated on WFCO's website, the PEC is not designed for Lithium Charging and by Forest River's own engineer's statements, does present quite a few shortcomings for Lithium use.Ī 12v lithium LiFePO4 battery fully charged to 100% will hold voltage around 13.3-13.4v. The PEC is designed and sold as a Lead-Acid Charger, and by that definition alone, disqualifies the PEC as a Lithium Ready Charger and disqualifies the IBEX 23RLDS as a Lithium Ready Travel Trailer. Many specifically state that a "Lithium Charger must be used." Lithium Battery warranties don't cover improper charging.The Lead-Acid algorithm does not have a Fast Charge state. ![]()
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