However, issues can still occur requiring troubleshooting. Learn how to troubleshoot common issues with Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries including failure to activate, undervoltage protection, overvoltage protection, temperature protection, short circuits, and overcurrent.
Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries provide excellent power density and safety when used properly. However, issues can still arise during operation. By understanding common protection mechanisms and troubleshooting techniques, battery performance and lifetime can be maximized.
In cyclic applications, the charge time is very critical. A lithium battery can be charged and discharged several times a day, whereas a lead acid battery can only be fully cycled once a day. Where they become different in charging profiles is Stage 3. A lithium battery does not need a float charge like lead acid.
If you’ve recently purchased or are researching lithium iron phosphate batteries (referred to lithium or LiFePO4 in this blog), you know they provide more cycles, an even distribution of power delivery, and weigh less than a comparable sealed lead acid (SLA) battery. Did you know they can also charge four times faster than SLA?
Although LiFePO4 batteries are capable of full discharge, it is best to avoid deep discharges whenever possible. Discharging below 20% capacity can cause the Battery Management System (BMS) to engage protective measures, which may reduce the battery’s lifespan over time. 2. Emphasize Shallow Cycles
Fast "forced" charging: Because an overvoltage can be applied to the LiFePO4 battery without decomposing the electrolyte, it can be charged by only one step of CC to reach 95% SOC or be charged by CC+CV to get 100% SOC. This is similar to the way lead acid batteries are safely force charged.