Setting Up a Solar Charge Controller for Lithium Ion Batteries: Bulk, Absorb, Equalize, and Temperature Compensation Settings

Harnessing solar energy for powering your devices or off-grid systems is a sustainable and eco-friendly choice. To ensure the efficient and safe charging of lithium ion batteries using solar power, it's crucial to set up the solar charge controller correctly. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process, covering the essential settings for bulk, absorb, equalize, and temperature compensation.

Understanding the Basics

Before delving into the specific settings, it's essential to grasp the fundamental concepts associated with solar charge controllers and lithium batteries.

1. Solar Charge Controllers:
   • Charge controllers regulate the voltage and current from solar panels to charge batteries optimally.
   • There are two main types: PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) and MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking). PWM is less expensive yet still works well for many systems. However, we recommend MPPT for most systems because it maximizes the efficiency and power of the panels.
2. Lithium Batteries:
   • Lithium ion batteries offer higher energy density, better efficiency and longer lifespan compared to traditional lead-acid batteries.
   • However, they require specific charging profiles, that are different from lead acid, to maximize efficiency and safety.

Solar Charge Controller Settings

We're going to look at a typical 12v lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery, which is popular in the off-grid, overland, camping and RV space. For 24v, 36v or 48v simply multiply the numbers below by 2, 3, or 4, respectively. You can also contact us at tech@higherwire.com and reference our recommended charge settings (PDF).

1. Bulk Charging:
   • Definition: The initial stage where the charge controller allows the maximum current to flow into the batteries until they reach a specified voltage level.
   • Setting: Configure the bulk charging voltage based on the specifications provided by the lithium battery manufacturer. We recommend 14.0v for our Renewed batteries, while many manufacturers recommend 14.6v for lithium batteries.
2. Absorb Charging:
   • Definition: After reaching the bulk charge voltage, the controller switches to absorb mode, holding the voltage constant while gradually reducing the current.
   • Setting: Set the absorb voltage based on the lithium battery specifications. We recommend 14.0v for our Renewed batteries, while many manufacturers recommend 14.6v for lithium batteries.
3. Float Charging:
   • Definition: A float charge is a trickle (low-power) charge applied to a battery to maintain capacity at or near full voltage. It is mostly beneficial when batteries are to be stored for long periods.
   • Setting: Lithium batteries have far lower self-discharge than lead acid, so we recommend setting this to 13.6v.
4. Equalize Charging (for lead-acid only):
   • Definition: Some charge controllers offer an equalization mode for lead-acid batteries. However, this isn't suitable for lithium batteries.
   • Setting: Turn off or set to zero minutes. Set equal to absorb charge voltage if you are unable to turn if off completely.
5. Temperature Compensation:
   • Importance: Lead-acid batteries are sensitive to temperature variations, so many charge controllers have a temperature probe at the battery. This is used with a temperature compensation algorithm that can change the charge settings depending on battery temperature.
   • Setting: Disable temperature compensation on the charge controller. Alternatively, you can set the temperature coefficient to zero unless the battery manufacturer recommends a different value.
6. Temperature Cutoff:

• Importance: All batteries perform worse at low temperatures. Lithium batteries can be permanently damaged due to lithium plating if charged below freezing temperatures.
• Setting: Set the low-temperature cutoff to 32°F (0°C).

Conclusion

Always be sure to reference the manuals and specifications for your equipment. Manufacturers will have specific requirements for charge voltage and amperage, temperature, and controls. When in doubt, contact the manufacturer before connecting your system.

You can also explore reputable online resources, forums, and community discussions where users share their experiences and best practices for configuring solar charge controllers for lithium batteries.

Setting up a solar charge controller for lithium batteries involves understanding the specific needs of these batteries and configuring the controller accordingly. By following the manufacturer's guidelines and utilizing reliable sources, you can optimize your solar charging system for efficiency, longevity, and safety.

Further Reading

1. https://www.batteryskills.com/what-is-battery-float-charging/
2. https://batteryuniversity.com/
3. https://midniteftp.com/support/kb/faq.php?id=75