Equalization

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BoFuller
BoFuller Solar Expert Posts: 187 ✭✭✭
in Solar Beginners Corner #1
whats the rule of thumb on how often one should equalize the battery baby?
12 Kyocera 235 panels, 3 Gyll LiFePO4 batteries (previously 16 Trojan L16 RE-B batteries), Outback 3600W 48V system, Generac 11K propane backup generator, NW AZ, off grid, 6,000 ft (system installed in April 2015)

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  • Vic
    Vic Solar Expert Posts: 3,208 ✭✭✭✭
    #2
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    Hi BoFuller,


    It is best to try to use the manufacturer's guidelines for charge and EQ parameters. Trojan has guidance on their site  --  as you know,  Trojan increased the SG of the electrolyte  that is used in their L-16 RE-B batteries,  about three years ago,  but if your batteries were new  in April,  2015,  then the target is probably  1.277 - 1.280.


    Suggest that you look on the Trojan site for recommended  EQ voltage,  and advice on just when to EQ your bank.


    IMO,  it is important to Temperature Compensate the EQ voltage,  just as you do with your Absorb,  and Float voltages.


    FWIW,   Vic

    Off Grid - Two systems -- 4 SW+ 5548 Inverters, Surrette 4KS25 1280 AH X2@48V, 11.1 KW STC PV, 4X MidNite Classic 150 w/ WBjrs, Beta KID on S-530s, MX-60s, MN Bkrs/Boxes.  25 KVA Polyphase Kubota diesel,  Honda Eu6500isa,  Eu3000is-es, Eu2000,  Eu1000 gensets.  Thanks Wind-Sun for this great Forum.
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  • Photowhit
    Photowhit Solar Expert Posts: 6,003 ✭✭✭✭✭
    #3
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    Also note that Trojan is pretty 'Wacko' since they suggest not equalizing unless your battery is out of balance, but do things, like promotional videos suggesting a monthly equalizing.

    Most installers will equalize on installation to ensure the batteries SG starts at the same point.
    Home system 4000 watt (Evergreen) array standing, with 2 Midnite Classic Lites,  Midnite E-panel, Magnum MS4024, Prosine 1800(now backup) and Exeltech 1100(former backup...lol), 660 ah 24v Forklift battery(now 10 years old). Off grid for 20 years (if I include 8 months on a bicycle).
    - Assorted other systems, pieces and to many panels in the closet to not do more projects.
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