I currently have 2x100ah royal 1111k batteries to keep me going during load shedding. Even though the inverter cuts out at 50% dod they have not lasted very well. I need to replace them. Can anyone recommend some decent 12v 100ah batteries? Can anyone comment on the royal dc31 batteries? A few said they are better than the 1150k batteries I came across.

Why don’t you look at the Hubble S-120. They are lithium but should be drop in replacement for your lead acids. The price difference is not too much and the lifespan and DOD are much better. 

2 hours ago, PowerUser said:

Why don’t you look at the Hubble S-120. They are lithium but should be drop in replacement for your lead acids. The price difference is not too much and the lifespan and DOD are much better. 

Thanks very much. I did look for 12v Lithium batteries before but couldn't find any. I'm glad you have mentioned these to me. I know Lithium charges a bit differently, do you know what charge voltages to use for them? Do you know what dod would be safe to use on them?

25 minutes ago, Mark1981 said:

Thanks very much. I did look for 12v Lithium batteries before but couldn't find any. I'm glad you have mentioned these to me. I know Lithium charges a bit differently, do you know what charge voltages to use for them? Do you know what dod would be safe to use on them?

DOD should be around 80%. Rather give Hubble a call and tell them in what system, you would like to use them. They should be able to advise you best. 

37 minutes ago, PowerUser said:

DOD should be around 80%. Rather give Hubble a call and tell them in what system, you would like to use them. They should be able to advise you best. 

My Axpert inverter has a PWM solar charger to which I have panels connected. I just found you cannot use a PWM charger for lithium batteries. My setup is mainly for load shedding but I do use the solar during extended outages. So unfortunately I don't think lithium will actually be an option for me which is a big pity.

2 hours ago, Mark1981 said:

My Axpert inverter has a PWM solar charger to which I have panels connected. I just found you cannot use a PWM charger for lithium batteries. My setup is mainly for load shedding but I do use the solar during extended outages. So unfortunately I don't think lithium will actually be an option for me which is a big pity.

Are you sure, you can’t use PWM with lithium? Why is that? The S-120 have their own BMS built in, which should handle the charging, even if the PWM is not designed for it. 

Edited March 8, 20224 yr by PowerUser

38 minutes ago, PowerUser said:

Are you sure, you can’t use PWM with lithium? Why is that? The S-120 have their own BMS built in, which should handle the charging, even if the PWM is not designed for it. 

I'm not 100% sure. I came across one article earlier that said the BMS will protect the battery but its the pulsating of the PWM that is the problem and something about when the battery is full the BMS will cut off the charge and without having the battery in the equation it could damage the charger. But I'm really not too sure. I probably need to research more

1 hour ago, PowerUser said:

Are you sure, you can’t use PWM with lithium? Why is that? The S-120 have their own BMS built in, which should handle the charging, even if the PWM is not designed for it. 

Also with the PWM charger it will try charge the battery with a voltage of just over the currently voltage of the battery. But the BMS would want a specific constant voltage. Would the battery even charge?

43 minutes ago, Mark1981 said:

Also with the PWM charger it will try charge the battery with a voltage of just over the currently voltage of the battery. But the BMS would want a specific constant voltage. Would the battery even charge?

Not 100% sure but in any case, the best is to talk to Hubble. They will know the limitations of their batteries. 

I so Ave it that no pulse charging for lithium.  But then the ezception to the rule is Victron has a PWM charger with lithium profile. 

I wish pulse charging would not damage lithium as it is my choice charger for lead acid.

If the OP does not need the inverter to operate as a UPS one can I guess switch off the inverter if fitted with lithium. Then use an external MPPT to charge during long outings. Just do the right settings.

The voltage settings for Axpert and lithium can be found on the forum or Google Thesunpays for settings. Members can also provide a good starting point.

Hi Mark
"
The Royal DC31 is in fact superior to the 1150. More cycles are attainable from the DC31, they are however still limited compared to LiFeP04 which are much pricier. Unfortunately, there are a number of inverters unable to accommodate LifeP04 (Lithium) leaving you with very few options other than Lead Acid/Lead Calcium Batteries.

Please call or WhatsApp me on 0829404670 to discuss this further.