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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

May. 13, 2024

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

 

For more transportation battery connector manufacturerinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

We are here to help you and highly recommend consulting our FAQ section before making any purchasing decisions. At Bioenno Power, our primary concern is to cater to your needs and assist with your application. The details shared below should address the most frequently asked questions. If an answer to your query is not provided, please get in touch with us via email at

sale@bioennopower.com

or call

888-336-7864

We are here to help you and highly recommend consulting our FAQ section before any purchasing decision is made. Here at Bioenno Power, we are dedicated first and foremost to satisfying your requirements and helping with your application. The information below should address the most common queries. Should your question remain unanswered, please reach out to us at:

+1 888 336 7864

What are Li-Ion Batteries?

What are LiPo (lithium-polymer) batteries?

What are PCMs and what do they do?

LFP: How do I maintain the LiFePO4 battery?

LFP: How many Watt-hours of batteries am I allowed to carry-on for aircraft?

LFP: Why is there a separate DC barrel plug connector and PowerPole Connector on my battery? Why is there a separate Red/Black Powerpole and Grey SB/50 connector? Can I charge and discharge through either connector?

LFP: What are LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate Batteries)?

LFP: The terminals/connectors on the battery do not fit my applications, what do I do?

LFP: I have a universal lead acid charger with high charging current; can I use it instead to charge LiFePO4 batteries?

LFP: Can I buy another of the same LiFePO4 batteries to double the voltage or capacity?

LFP: How come the battery stops working a few seconds after a high current draw?

LFP: I need more help with the battery that I bought.

Solar: Do I really need a solar charge controller?

Solar: I already have a solar charge controller, so can I use it with your battery?

Solar: I already have panels, so can I use them with your batteries?

Solar: I want MPPT, I heard it is the best. Do I really need it?

Solar: I already have a battery but I want your solar charge controller, will it work?

Solar: How do I connect my solar system, is there a specific order?

Solar: Can I charge and discharge simultaneously with solar?

Solar: Should I use the load port on the solar charge controller?

Solar: I'm ready to buy. What panel do I need?

General: Do I need a battery box or a similar case?

General: What is PVC, what is ABS, what's the difference?

General: I am having troubles with my battery. How do I troubleshoot?

General: Is my battery appropriate for ______ usage?

General: I'm a Ham, I have an Amateur Radio; which battery do I get?

General: What can I use your Power Pack products for?

General: Can I charge my battery with my vehicle?

General: I have another charging system, can I use it or do I need to replace it?

General: How much power do I have left in my battery, how can I tell?

General: Can I jump a Lithium Iron Phosphate battery?

General: Can I charge a Lithium Iron Phosphate battery below 0 deg C (32 deg F)?

General: What is the Charge Rate and Discharge Rate for a Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery?

General: I noticed the Max and Peak Continuous Discharge on the label may be different from the website; why?


What are Li-Ion Batteries?
Li-ion batteries are rechargeable batteries that utilize lithium ions moving between a negative and a positive electrode. These batteries are favored in consumer electronics due to their excellent energy density, absence of memory effect, and slow discharge rate when not in use. Li-Ion batteries come in diverse shapes and sizes. They are lighter and offer a higher open circuit voltage compared to lead-acid batteries, enabling power transfer at lower currents. Their features include:

  1. Improved safety
  2. Outstanding low-temperature performance
  3. Reliable cycle life
  4. High tolerance to abuse*
  5. Large capacity
  6. High rate capability
  7. Excellent performance in high temperatures

*Applies to LiFePO4 batteries only, and does not extend to Cobalt Oxide or Lithium Polymer batteries

The term "Li-ion" is generic like "car" and encompasses various types of lithium batteries such as LiCoO2 (cylindrical cell), LiPo, and LiFePO4 batteries (both cylindrical and prismatic cells). Bioenno Power mainly concentrates on the design, manufacturing, and marketing of LiFePO4 (LFP) batteries. These different chemistries bring varied characteristics. Typically, when "Li-ion" is listed in a product's description, it may refer to LiCoO2 (Cobalt Oxide) or LiPo (Lithium Polymer) unless LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate) is explicitly mentioned. LiCoO2 and LiPo are prevalent due to their cost-efficiency and high power density, but they have significantly shorter lifespans and are less stable chemically and thermally compared to LiFePO4. LiFePO4 batteries are unique for their high-performance benefits. Compared to older chemistries like LiCoO2, LiPo, AGM, SLA, and NiCad, the advanced LiFePO4 chemistry delivers superior performance and stability.

 

What are LiPo (lithium-polymer) batteries?
LiPo batteries are a subtype of Li-Ion batteries used in high-current discharge applications like RC toys (cars, helicopters, airplanes, boats, etc.). They are also utilized in consumer electronics due to their compact size. LiPo batteries consist of cells stacked in series/parallel configurations, containing anode and cathode plates with a gel electrolyte inside a pouch. These batteries are cost-effective, lightweight, robust, and can be packaged in various shapes, making them suitable for electronics such as mobile phones.

 

What are PCMs and what do they do?
PCMs, or protection circuit modules, are single-board microcomputers used for battery management systems (BMS) to regulate current output, manage cell pack balancing, and control charging. They safeguard the battery cells from damage by shutting off the battery if the load exceeds the power capacity, thus extending battery function and preventing abuse. All our batteries feature premium PCMs, distinguishing us from competitors. These PCMs include:

  1. Balancing function for cells
  2. Over-current protection
  3. Over-voltage protection
  4. Over-discharge (under-voltage) protection
  5. Temperature protection
  6. Short circuit protection
  7. Integrated charging circuitry

LFP: How​ do I maintain the LFP battery?​

Charge the battery every​ 8 to 10 weeks​ to keep cells balanced and ensure it remains operable. The PCM uses a small power amount to maintain cell balance, requiring periodic charging.


LFP: How many Watt-hours of batteries am I allowed to carry-on for aircraft?
All LiFePO4 batteries must be carried on; they cannot be placed in checked luggage. On domestic flights, you're allowed up to 160 Watt-hours, and on international flights, up to 100 Watt-hours. Print the sheet linked below when flying, along with your FCC Ham Radio license. Mention you're a ham radio operator with radios and batteries, along with the printed sheet and FCC license copy.

For more info, please check​Batteries Carried by Airline Passengers FAQ


LFP: LFP: Why is there a separate DC barrel plug connector and PowerPole Connector on my battery? Why is there a separate Red/Black Powerpole and Grey SB/50 connector? Can I charge and discharge through either connector?
Our PVC Pack LiFePO4 batteries feature two connectors: a DC barrel plug and an Anderson Powerpole connector. Some packs have Red/Black Powerpole and Grey SB50 connectors. These are wired in parallel on the PCM inside each battery, so it’s okay to charge through either connector. The Grey SB50 connectors have thicker cables for high-current applications like motors. Customers requested two connectors for convenience, allowing the charger to remain connected and leaving the Powerpole connected to the radio equipment without needing to reconnect the charger frequently.

 

LFP: What are LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate Batteries)?
Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries use advanced cathode material, offering several benefits over traditional Li-ion batteries like LiCoO2. LiFePO4 batteries provide higher specific capacity, superior thermal and chemical stability, enhanced safety, improved cost performance, enhanced charge/discharge rates, compactness, light weight, and long cycle life. They can last 2,000-3,000 charge cycles, usually lasting 5-10 years, and deliver consistent performance. Bioenno Power batteries offer these features:

  1. Increased safety
  2. Exceptional low-temperature performance
  3. Extended 2000-3000+ charge cycles
  4. 5-10+ years service life
  5. Tolerance to high abuse
  6. High capacity – typically outperforming SLA batteries with twice the Ah rating
  7. High rate capability
  8. High-temperature performance
  9. Chemical and thermal stability
  10. Consistent, flat discharge
  11. No memory effect
  12. Full-depth discharge
  13. No need for tendering or floating

LiFePO4 batteries come in two types determined by cell type:

  1. Deep Cycle LiFePO4: Designed for powering electronics for long periods, these batteries have a larger amount of lithium per cell and high capacity but aren't suitable for engine cranking.
  2. High Rate LiFePO4: Intended for starting motors, these batteries have less lithium per cell, suitable for delivering short bursts of energy but not for prolonged use. It's critical to identify each type based on characteristics like Lead Acid Equivalent Figures and CCA (Cold Cranking Amp) Ratings.

Do not use High Rate batteries for deep cycle applications as it can damage equipment. Deep cycle and high rate should never be interchanged despite being from the same chemistry. This principle applies to all battery types, including Lead Acid/SLA/GEL/AGM. Ensure application requirements align with battery selection.

 

LFP: The terminals/connectors on the battery do not fit my application. What should I do?
You can change the terminal/connector without voiding the warranty as long as the battery casing isn't opened or modified. We also supply adapters and connectors where possible. Note that placing the battery in third-party containers (like Pelican cases or Ammo cans) does not void the warranty. Depending on your application, we might recommend a hard-case retrofit.

 

LFP: I have a universal lead acid charger with high charging current; can I use it instead to charge LiFePO4 batteries?
Bioenno Power strongly advises against using lead acid chargers for LiFePO4 batteries. Lead acid batteries charge at 2.30V to 2.45V per cell, while LiFePO4 batteries need 3.60V per cell. Undercharging your battery prevents full capacity utilization and proper balancing. Moreover, the lead acid charger’s floating charge is not suitable for LiFePO4, potentially causing problems. We recommend purchasing the battery with the bundled charger.

 

LFP: Can I buy another of the same LiFePO4 batteries to double the voltage or capacity?
Bioenno Power suggests purchasing a single battery that meets your voltage and capacity needs to avoid potential issues. Assembling a larger capacity battery from smaller units can be problematic and even dangerous, leading to injury depending on output. Unlike simple SLA, AA, or AAA batteries, LFP batteries are controlled by computers, meaning they shouldn’t be wired together casually. If you need customization beyond our standard products, we can manufacture most custom orders, and our experienced staff will assist you to the best of our abilities.

 

LFP: How come the battery stops working a few seconds after a high current draw?
Ensure the load does not exceed the rated continuous output current. If limits are surpassed, the PCM will shut down the battery pack to protect it. Reset by disconnecting the load, troubleshooting, and confirming the current remains within the pack’s maximum. Attach the charger briefly to reset the battery. For higher current needs, contact us at sale@bioennopower.com or call us.

 

LFP: I need more help with the battery that I bought.
Please contact us at​ sale@bioennopower.com​ or call​ +1 888 336 7864

Don't worry. We encourage you to call because Bioenno Power is uniquely committed to finding the perfect solution for your application because every application has its own unique demands. This extends to consulting on application and any other additional or ancillary inquiries.

 

Solar: Do I really need a solar charge controller?
Yes, a solar charge controller is essential, and not including one in your solar setup can damage your battery and equipment. It’s vital to have a controller properly scaled for your application to regulate voltage and current. Here’s why:

  1. Solar panels don’t regulate voltage or current; their output depends on weather conditions.
  2. Panel voltage and current fluctuate significantly, and a good panel’s "voltage range" and "current range" (described as "open circuit") explain the expected variance.
  3. Electronics can be damaged by fluctuating voltage and current. Smooth, regulated output is crucial for equipment safety.

A solar charge controller mitigates these issues by regulating and balancing voltage and current from the panel, tailoring it to the battery’s charge method based on its chemistry. Never connect an unregulated solar panel directly to your battery or load. A solar charge controller will:

  1. Monitor battery and solar panel conditions
  2. Regulate voltage and current, preventing sudden spikes or drops
  3. Prevent battery overcharging
  4. Enable simultaneous charging and discharging

 

Solar: I already have a solar charge controller, so can I use it with your battery?
It depends on whether the controller is compatible with your battery’s chemistry. For instance, a lead acid-focused unit with three-stage charging won’t properly charge a LiFePO4 battery needing a two-stage CC/CV constant current/constant voltage charge profile. Remember:

Even a "universal charger" has specific batteries it can and cannot charge because each type has unique charging requirements. Always confirm compatibility before proceeding.

Want more information on higo? Feel free to contact us.

We highly recommend you call if you are unsure or hesitant. Our technicians will guide you through your application.

 

Solar: I already have panels; can I use them with your batteries?
Generally, you can use your existing panels with our batteries. Customers do this all the time. Just make sure to:

  1. Check open circuit voltage - Ensure it's within your battery's acceptable range (e.g., around 15V-22V for a 12V battery).
  2. Check open circuit current - This figure helps determine charge time and if your panel size matches your battery's needs.
  3. Wattage is a good benchmark but not the detailed information you need.
  4. Quality matters - Panel performance depends on age, chemistry, and investment quality. High-quality Monocrystalline Panels perform better and last longer than cheaper Polycrystalline Panels.

 

Solar: I want MPPT, I heard it's the best. Do I really need it?
MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) optimizes energy capture but whether you need it depends on your panel count. While MPPT is more efficient, it’s most beneficial for large panel arrays in fixed installations. For portable operations or smaller setups, a good quality PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) controller might be better suited for your application.

 

Solar: I already have a battery, but I

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