What happens when charging a LiFePO4 battery?
When charging a LiFePO4 battery, an external voltage needs to be applied to push current from the anode to the cathode. During this process, the charger acts like a pump, pushing the current to flow in the opposite direction from the normal discharge direction.
When the voltage applied by the charger is higher than the open-circuit voltage of the battery, current begins to flow into the battery, causing the open-circuit voltage to rise very close to the voltage applied by the charger.
Fast Charging and Float Charging
Lithium battery chargers can use different modes throughout the charging process. The first stage is called high current charging, where the charger gradually increases the voltage to maintain a constant current. During this stage, the charger delivers maximum current to the battery. For example, a 10 amp charger will always deliver 10 amps of current during this phase, and the voltage will gradually increase until it reaches the maximum threshold, known as the “high current voltage”.
Once the “high charge voltage” is reached, the charger will enter the “absorption phase “, during which the charger will apply a constant voltage, called the “absorption voltage”. When the battery voltage approaches the absorption voltage, the charging current will slowly decrease until it reaches zero.
At this point, the battery is fully charged. Unlike lead-acid batteries, which lose power rapidly when disconnected, lithium-ion batteries , such as Kaiheng lithium iron phosphate batteries, do not experience this condition. Therefore, there is no need for floatcharging, which is usually used for lead-acid batteries to maintain the charge.
Charging algorithm of lithium iron phosphate battery
The high current, absorption and float phases together constitute what is commonly referred to as the charging algorithm. Chargers are usually categorized according to their maximum charging current (e.g. 10A, 20A) and target battery voltage (12V, 24V, 48V, etc.). In addition, many chargers offer a variety of algorithms designed for different battery types (e.g. AGM, SLA, Gel or Wet).
For lithium-iron batteries (LiFePO4) from Kaiheng, it is critical to use a charger with the correct algorithms. The optimal operating and absorption voltage for LiFePO4 batteriesis 14.4V, which is in the ideal range for lithium-ion charging. Since these batteries do not discharge when idle, float charging is not required. However, it is possible to use a float charge voltage lower than 13.6V if desired.
Key points to remember
- Battery Pack Voltage: For Cohen LiFePO4 batteries, 14.4V is the optimal voltage.
- Absorption voltage: The absorption voltage should be consistent with the battery voltage to ensure efficient charging of the battery.
- Float charging voltage: Not essential, but if needed, any voltage lower than 13.6V is suitable for LiFePO4 battery.
- Charging algorithm: Ensure the charger is compatible with lithium-ion batteries and does not rely on float charging to maintain battery power.
Frequently asked questions about charging Kaiheng lithium iron phosphate batteries
How to charge KAHN lithium iron phosphate batteries?
When choosing a charger for KAHN Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries, it is critical to select a charger that is compatible with lithium-ion technology. Make sure the charger is designed for LiFePO4 batteries with the correct voltage settings to maximize battery performance and life. For example, using a charger that delivers a high current voltage of 14.4V and avoids float charging will keep the battery in top condition.
Does Keheng’s LiFePO4 battery need a special charger?
Keheng LiFePO4 batteries do not require a special charger, but the charger must meet the specifications. Keheng’s LiFePO4 batteries require a charger that provides 14.2V to 14.6V for fast charging and 13.6V for float charging. Many chargers that meet these parameters are compatible with Cohen batteries, whether or not they were originally designed for other types of batteries.
Although the Cohen LiFePO4 battery does not require float charging, you will find that most chargers will work effectively with the correct “High Current/Absorption” and “Float Charge” parameters set. Always make sure that your charger is compatible with these key parameters for optimal performance.
How long does the battery last?
Keheng’s lithium batteries are durable and highly reliable. After rigorous cycle testing, we have found that even after 3,000 full discharge cycles under extreme conditions, our batteries still maintain 75%-80% of their capacity. For ordinary users who use our batteries in milder conditions, our batteries still maintain 75%-80% capacity after 5000 cycles. If you fully charge and discharge your ACE batteries every day, they will reliably serve you for 10 to 15 years. Our lithium iron phosphate batteries come with a 10-year warranty and are designed to provide you with a long-lasting supply of power.
Charging ACE Li-FePO4 batteries in cold weather
After choosing the right charger for your LiFePO4 battery, you also need to consider the environmental conditions it may face. Some users prefer to stay in warm environments, while others like to experience seasonal changes. If you anticipate experiencing extremely cold temperatures during use, it’s vital to prepare your system ahead of time to avoid power outages or low-voltage disconnections.
Cold weather can seriously affect the battery’s ability to store and release energy. Without a heated battery kit, the reduction in energy transfer can reduce battery capacity and performance. This can lead to shorter battery life and overall lower efficiency. To protect your Cohen battery from cold temperature damage, its temperature must be maintained above 35°F. Our heated battery kits ensure that your batteries are kept at optimal temperatures and never fall below freezing. This low-drain technology ensures that your battery is always charged, giving you the confidence to take on adventures no matter what the weather.
Need more information about Cohen’s batteries and electrical systems?
Building or upgrading an electrical system can seem like a daunting task, but we’re here to guide you. The Cohan customer support team is ready to answer any questions you may have about batteries and electrical systems. We make sure you’re taking full advantage of your lithium battery system and enjoying a reliable supply of electricity wherever you go.
Follow Keheng on social media to learn more about how lithium battery systems can enhance your lifestyle, see how others have installed battery systems, and embrace any adventure with confidence.
12V Lithium Iron Phosphate Deep Cycle Heating Battery Packs
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