Ultra-Safe
Explosion-proof / No leakage
Stable
Low Internal Resistance / Proven Stability
Long Life
Ultra-long cycle life
Guaranteed A Grade
Contracted A Grade cell supply
DCS Batteries are the ideal replacement & upgrade from AGM, Gel or other lead-acid batteries for any application. DCS gives you the ability to upgrade your current batteries to lithium-ion technology that can deliver a minimum of 2500 cycles and has tremendous advantages in weight, performance, reliability and service life compared to traditional lead-acid batteries.
Backed by a 3 year warranty.
$315.00
”TEXT” Power systems that demand stability, long life, and safety can now rely on the LiFePO4 24v battery from Deep Cycle Systems. Designed with advanced lithium iron phosphate chemistry, this battery outperforms traditional lead-acid solutions in every category—offering up to 2500 full-depth cycles, superior safety ratings, and consistent voltage delivery throughout its charge. It’s the smart choice for RVs, solar kits, and industrial backup systems. With no fluid top-ups, no toxic fumes, and no unexpected voltage drop, this battery makes life easier whether you’re using it off-grid, for emergency power, or in compact power modules. DCS has engineered this battery with a top-tier BMS and cylindrical A-grade cells, ensuring the LiFePO4 24v holds up in harsh Australian climates—from the Outback to coastal marine setups. It’s small in size, but massive in capability. For modern applications where space and reliability matter, the LiFePO4 24v battery delivers practical advantages: Whether powering surveillance equipment, mobile communication gear, or your off-grid lifestyle, the LiFePO4 24v battery is built to perform—and to last. The 24v LiFePO4 battery is ideal for compact yet demanding energy setups, providing a perfect balance between long cycle life, weight savings, and strong performance. Unlike older battery types, this lithium unit features stable voltage delivery across its entire discharge curve. That means no voltage sag and no compromise, even as it runs down—making it especially suited to electronics, small motors, and backup systems. Engineered with Deep Cycle Systems’ intelligent BMS and A-grade cylindrical LiFePO₄ cells, it offers maximum protection against common battery issues like thermal overrun, voltage spikes, or imbalance. The 24v LiFePO4 battery is rugged, sealed, and certified for transport and installation in almost any setting, whether it’s indoors or mobile. From caravans to small off-grid solar kits, this battery adapts with ease. Looking to upgrade from AGM or gel batteries? The 24v LiFePO4 battery adds powerful benefits to your setup: Compact, efficient, and extremely low maintenance, the 24v LiFePO4 battery is the future of small-format power. The 24v battery LiFePO4 from DCS is the ideal replacement for legacy 24V AGM and lead-acid systems. It’s engineered with LiFePO₄ cell chemistry that offers better energy efficiency, a significantly longer life cycle, and greater reliability. With a nominal capacity of 10Ah, it’s best suited for lightweight or intermittent-use applications where consistency and safety are more valuable than raw capacity. Whether you’re powering critical sensors, portable lighting, or telecom modules, the 24v battery LiFePO4 holds charge well even during long idle periods, and can discharge at up to 20A in short bursts. It includes a built-in smart battery management system that automatically regulates voltage, temperature, and load, ensuring peak performance and longevity even in harsh use environments. The 24v battery LiFePO4 is purpose-built for efficiency, portability, and dependability. In homes, in fieldwork, or as part of a solar-integrated system, the 24v battery LiFePO4 delivers stable energy where and when it’s needed most. Engineered for consistent output and built-in protection, the 24v lithium ion battery by DCS is a safe and efficient solution for modern energy systems. Its compact form, reliable chemistry, and intelligent management system make it the ideal upgrade from older lead-acid or gel batteries—especially in portable, mobile, or space-limited applications. Designed around LiFePO₄ cells, this battery offers more than 2500 deep discharge cycles at 100% DOD, holding steady voltage from start to finish. The internal BMS ensures over-voltage, under-voltage, and thermal protections are handled seamlessly. Whether you’re using it for communication equipment, DIY solar projects, or backup lighting, the 24v lithium ion battery is ready to perform under pressure and without hassle. Lightweight, durable, and zero-maintenance—the 24v lithium ion battery is built for mobile and remote use. From remote fieldwork to home energy kits, the 24v lithium ion battery brings efficiency and safety to any system you power. If you’re seeking stable energy delivery in a small and lightweight package, the 24v lithium ion option from Deep Cycle Systems is a perfect fit. Featuring premium-grade cylindrical cells and backed by a smart BMS, it ensures balanced charging, thermal protection, and long-term safety across thousands of use cycles. This isn’t just about storing energy—it’s about using it smarter. Ideal for users upgrading from traditional batteries, the 24v lithium ion system cuts down on maintenance, installation space, and total weight, while increasing performance. It’s especially useful for RVs, marine equipment, and off-grid systems where space is tight and reliability is non-negotiable. The 24v lithium ion configuration brings practical improvements across the board: Switching to 24v lithium ion means less worry, more uptime, and smarter power where it matters most. The lithium ion 24v battery from DCS is a next-generation energy storage solution designed for applications that demand durability, safety, and compact design. Whether you’re building a solar-powered system, upgrading your marine power supply, or preparing for emergencies, this battery delivers reliable energy with zero maintenance. Its internal BMS handles all voltage balancing and safety protocols, so you never have to worry about overcharging or short circuits. And with its long cycle life and low self-discharge rate, the lithium ion 24v battery is ideal for both daily use and long-term standby storage. Compact, portable, and powerful—it checks all the boxes for efficient energy storage. The lithium ion 24v battery adapts effortlessly across different industries and setups: Whether you’re on land or water, the lithium ion 24v battery delivers lasting, maintenance-free energy that’s ready when you are. The 24 volt lithium ion battery is a go-to solution for high-performance energy storage in demanding environments. Whether you’re powering tools, lighting, backup systems, or mobile devices, this battery delivers reliable output with built-in safety features and a lightweight design. Deep Cycle Systems has engineered this lithium iron phosphate-based unit to last longer and perform better under pressure—without the risks that come with older battery types. This battery maintains high voltage output from start to finish, ensuring all connected systems perform efficiently. The built-in BMS protects against thermal overload, short circuit, and over-discharge. With up to 2500 full cycles, the 24 volt lithium ion battery outperforms AGM and SLA batteries in both lifespan and energy density—making it an excellent investment for off-grid homes, marine systems, and portable tech setups. Users seeking reliable 24V power across different industries benefit greatly from a 24 volt lithium ion battery. The 24 volt lithium ion battery is engineered for flexibility—use it anywhere you need reliable, compact energy without maintenance headaches. The 24v li ion battery by Deep Cycle Systems is designed to deliver dependable energy in a range of use cases—from residential backup to mobile gear. Built with top-grade LiFePO₄ cells, this battery boasts impressive cycle life, fast charging capabilities, and a compact, rugged design. It’s a smart upgrade from traditional batteries, especially in environments where consistent voltage and safety are essential. With its intelligent battery management system, this unit monitors and regulates charge cycles, ensuring longevity and reducing risk. The 24v li ion battery delivers clean, stable energy for every cycle—making it ideal for powering critical systems in small cabinets, vehicles, or modular solar setups. The compact footprint and reliable performance of the 24v li ion battery make it ideal for a variety of settings: Whether you’re travelling or simply need a worry-free energy solution at home, the 24v li ion battery offers smart, scalable power. Energy storage doesn’t have to be bulky or complex. The 24v li ion battery is a streamlined solution for systems where space, weight, and reliability matter most. Whether you’re integrating it into an RV, remote monitoring station, or mobile setup, this battery offers all the benefits of lithium—fast charging, long life, low maintenance—in a compact form factor. Built using cylindrical LiFePO₄ cells and housed in a durable casing, it’s designed to operate safely and efficiently in high-vibration, high-temperature environments. The 24v li ion system is ideal for anyone who needs dependable energy without the fuss of frequent replacements or fluid maintenance. From adventure setups to backup systems, the 24v li ion battery fits in wherever energy is needed. For energy users who need simplicity, mobility, and strength in one package, the 24v li ion battery is a highly capable, ready-to-install power solution. When reliability and portability come first, the 24v li battery by Deep Cycle Systems offers a high-efficiency solution tailored to today’s compact energy demands. Built with LiFePO₄ chemistry and advanced internal battery management, it’s designed for users who need clean, powerful energy in a small footprint—without sacrificing cycle life or safety. This battery is ideal for applications where weight, size, and performance need to align. Whether you’re powering field instruments, LED lighting, or small solar installations, the 24v li battery delivers dependable voltage across thousands of cycles. Its sealed design makes it suitable for harsh outdoor environments or tight indoor spaces, providing a versatile edge in portable power setups. The 24v li battery thrives in conditions where traditional batteries fail or require constant maintenance. From marine to mobile, the 24v li battery proves that small-scale storage can still pack serious performance and resilience. The 24v lithium battery from DCS offers premium-grade performance in a compact, maintenance-free format. Whether you’re powering critical systems in a caravan, supporting tools in a mobile workshop, or building a solar storage bank, this battery delivers long-term reliability with minimal fuss. With LiFePO₄ technology at its core, you get 2500+ deep cycles at 100% DOD and stable voltage all the way through. DCS has designed this battery to work anywhere energy needs are tight but reliability is non-negotiable. Its sealed, flame-retardant casing protects it from weather and handling damage, and its internal BMS regulates temperature, charge, and discharge rates for long-term safety. The 24v lithium battery gives peace of mind to users who can’t afford system downtime. Looking for eco-efficient, long-lasting energy? The 24v lithium battery offers just that. From small homes to mobile systems, the 24v lithium battery is a trusted component in sustainable, low-maintenance energy design. The 24 volt battery lithium solution from Deep Cycle Systems is engineered for modern energy needs, blending high-capacity output with long cycle life in a manageable, low-maintenance format. It’s ideal for compact solar setups, remote communication equipment, or backup installations that need to perform consistently, no matter the environment. Unlike traditional battery banks, this lithium unit offers better energy density, significantly reduced weight, and the ability to handle frequent charging and discharging. With smart cell management and strong thermal protections, the 24 volt battery lithium pack keeps systems online longer and safer. Choosing a 24 volt battery lithium setup means choosing higher returns with fewer headaches. When long life, compact size, and peak efficiency matter, the 24 volt battery lithium system is one of the smartest energy investments you can make. If you need a dependable small-format power source, the LiFePO4 12v 10ah battery by Deep Cycle Systems offers exceptional performance in a lightweight design. Built for portable devices, compact solar systems, and reliable backup, this battery provides consistent voltage across its full charge cycle. Thanks to its lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO₄) chemistry, it delivers longer cycle life, improved safety, and higher energy efficiency than traditional sealed lead-acid batteries. Weighing just 3.5 kg, this battery is ideal for enclosed spaces or mobile applications where size and weight matter. The internal battery management system ensures safe operation in extreme conditions—whether you’re out in the field or powering sensitive electronics indoors. With more than 2500 cycles at 100% depth of discharge, the LiFePO4 12v 10ah delivers long-term energy with minimal maintenance. This compact battery offers several benefits that make it a top choice for lasting performance: For hobbyists, professionals, or backup planners, the LiFePO4 12v 10ah is a powerful tool—compact in size, but big on reliability. The LiFePO4 10ah 12v battery delivers a smart energy solution for portable and compact power needs. With lithium iron phosphate chemistry at its core, this battery offers faster charging, consistent discharge voltage, and a significantly longer lifespan than older battery types. Whether you’re setting up a communications unit, powering a wireless sensor, or need a solar-charged energy supply, this battery provides a practical and safe option. Deep Cycle Systems has engineered this model with the same high standards as its larger counterparts. It features a smart internal BMS to monitor temperature, current, and voltage, preventing overcharging or short circuits. The LiFePO4 10ah 12v is perfect for anyone needing dependable energy in a lightweight package that won’t degrade under frequent cycling. The LiFePO4 10ah 12v battery is designed to enhance compact systems: Whether in a mobile tool case or part of a solar-powered device, the LiFePO4 10ah 12v provides dependable energy in the smallest form. The 12v 10ah LiFePO4 battery offers an excellent mix of performance, durability, and convenience. It’s the ideal solution for users needing portable, maintenance-free power for smaller systems. Its LiFePO₄ chemistry means better cycle life, lighter weight, and greater thermal stability, making it a solid choice for both professional and DIY setups. Built to meet the needs of compact installations, the 12v 10ah LiFePO4 delivers dependable energy with low self-discharge and fast recharging capabilities. From telecom backup to portable solar devices, this battery ensures your systems stay online with minimal intervention and maximum efficiency. Here’s why the 12v 10ah LiFePO4 battery is highly suited for small-scale energy needs: For daily use or as a reliable backup, the 12v 10ah LiFePO4 is a cost-effective and versatile energy solution that performs well beyond its size. When consistent, lightweight energy is essential, the 12v 10ah lithium battery is a practical and efficient choice. Designed for devices and systems that don’t require high amperage but still need long-lasting and reliable power, this battery delivers clean energy across various low-power applications. Its lithium iron phosphate build ensures better safety, greater thermal stability, and far more charge cycles than outdated lead-acid or AGM batteries. The 12v 10ah lithium battery’s compact structure makes it ideal for mobility, while its smart BMS ensures safe use in a wide temperature range, from -25°C to 80°C. The 12v 10ah lithium model shines in portable, backup, and embedded applications: Whether used occasionally or daily, the 12v 10ah lithium battery gives users peace of mind, thanks to its low maintenance and high performance. ”Close”
Specifications:
–
Nominal Voltage
25.6V
Nominal Capacity (1Hr)
10Ah
Case Dimensions (L x W x H)
151mm x 98mm x 97mm
Weight
3.5 Kg
Cycling voltage
23.0 ~ 29.2V
Charge voltage
28.0 ~ 29.2V
Float Voltage
27.0 ~ 27.4V
Maximum Charge Current
10A
Recommended Charge Current
≤5A
Maximum Discharge Current
20A 5 secs
DCS BMS (internal)
DCS active cell management system, over/under voltage, over current charge/discharge, low/high temperature protections, satisfies the AS/NZS 3001.2:2022 lithium battery standards
Cell Chemistry
Cylindrical (LifePO4)
Cycle Performance
2500 Cycles @ 100% DOD ≥ 80% Capacity Retention @ 25°C
Ingress Protection
IP54
Case
ABS (flame retardant plastic)
Operating temp Range
-25 to +80 degrees C
Parallel Connections
Up To 10
Series Connections
No
Warranty
3 years
Certifications
UN 38.3, UL 1642, IEC 62133 & 62619, CE
DCS Lithium Battery Safety & Reliability
Advanced Energy Solutions with the LiFePO4 24v for Long-Term Use
Why the LiFePO4 24v is a Trusted Choice for Modern Energy Setups
Reliable and Efficient 24v LiFePO4 Battery for Versatile Applications
How the 24v LiFePO4 Battery Improves Performance in Compact Systems
Compact Power Delivery from the 24v Battery LiFePO4 by DCS
Where the 24v Battery LiFePO4 Fits Best in Off-Grid or Backup Use
Safe and High-Performance 24v Lithium Ion Battery for Energy Storage
What Makes the 24v Lithium Ion Battery Ideal for Portable Power Systems
Compact and Consistent Energy with 24v Lithium Ion Technology
Benefits of Choosing 24v Lithium Ion over Traditional Lead-Acid Units
Upgrade to Lithium Ion 24v for Lightweight, Maintenance-Free Power
How Lithium Ion 24v Performs in Solar, Marine, and Backup Applications
Powerful and Safe 24 Volt Lithium Ion Solution for Your Energy Needs
Where the 24 Volt Lithium Ion Battery Delivers Maximum Value
Get Reliable Energy Storage with the 24v Li Ion Battery
Simplify Your Setup with the Compact and Efficient 24v Li Ion System
Why the 24v Li Ion Format is Perfect for Mobile and Stationary Use
Practical Energy Solutions with the 24v Li Battery by DCS
How the 24v Li Battery Supports Compact Systems in Demanding Environments
Compact 24v Lithium Battery Built for High-Cycle Use
The 24v Lithium Battery’s Role in Sustainable Power Storage
Streamline Power Delivery with a 24 Volt Battery Lithium Solution
Why 24 Volt Battery Lithium Units Are Best for Energy Efficiency
Premium LiFePO4 12v 10ah Battery for Lightweight Storage
How LiFePO4 12v 10ah Stands Out for Long-Term Reliability
Efficient Power with the LiFePO4 10ah 12v from Deep Cycle Systems
Where the LiFePO4 10ah 12v Battery Fits Best in Small Applications
Lightweight 12v 10ah LiFePO4 for Everyday Energy Needs
What Makes 12v 10ah LiFePO4 the Right Pick for Compact Energy Storage
Dependable 12v 10ah Lithium Battery for Low-Power Systems
Why the 12v 10ah Lithium Battery Is Perfect for Backup and Portable Use
Battery User Guide
Battery Installation Locations
DCS Batteries that are in a sealed traditional style battery case are IP rated 54 unless otherwise specified.
As there is a considerable amount of electronics inside the battery cases, it is important that these batteries are protected from the ingress of particles and water.
IP54 means that there is partial protection against dust & similar particles & protection against splashing water from any direction for a minimum of 10 minutes.
IP54 MEANS THE BATTERIES ARE NOT WATERPROOF
Our DCS Slimline battery range is IP rated to 53 unless otherwise specified.
IP53 means that there is partial protection against dust & similar particles & protection against splashing water up to 60 degrees from the vertical with limited ingress permitted for 3 minutes.
IP53 MEANS THE BATTERIES ARE NOT WATERPROOF.
DCS batteries should be installed and operated in a location that will not exceed the specified operating temperatures.
Make yourself aware of the new requirements that relate to battery storage, IP ratings and venting. Australian / New Zealand Standards (AS/NZS 3001.2:2022)
Do Not
- Install DCS batteries underneath a vehicle or caravan, or any other external location that is exposed to the atmosphere unless it is fully contained inside a suitable battery housing that will prevent the ingress of particles & or water. Also, sufficient mechanical / structural protection is needed to prevent damage from rocks and debris during recreational vehicle travel.
- Pressure wash or hose your batteries. You can wipe them down with a damp cloth if needed.
- Submerge your batteries in any fluids.
- Install DCS batteries near high heat sources, e.g. exhaust manifolds or turbo chargers.
Operating Temperatures
Each battery has a designated operating temperature range depending on the cell type used.
Our under bonnet Hybrid battery range (using cylindrical cells) is designed to work in ambient temperatures between -30°C to 110°C. Do not operate outside of this temperature range.
Our 12V 180Ah auxiliary batteries have an operating temperature range of -30°C to 60°C. The DCS BMS will not allow these batteries to operate if the 60°C is exceeded.
The DCS BMS will not allow a frozen Battery that is below 0 degrees Celsius to be charged. Charge will only be allowed when the ambient temperature of the battery cell is back above 0°C.
Discontinue the use of a battery immediately if the battery becomes excessively warm whilst in a resting/standby state.
Please check the specifications for the recommended operating temperatures of your particular battery on the DCS website.
Securing your battery
Your battery must be secured to prevent movement. Restraints must prevent any movement under a pulling force of twice the battery weight.
The recommended hold-down bracket torque is 4 N-m. or 3.5 lb-ft.
Care has to be taken to prevent the battery lid seal/gasket from deforming when securing the battery, which could affect the IP rating of the battery. Do Not over-tighten the battery holding clamps.
Battery Charging
Use only approved Lithium-Iron Phosphate specific chargers for your battery’s nominal voltage, chemistry and maximum charge rate with the correct charging stage voltages.
All DCS 12V cylindrical cell packs to be charged at:
14.4V Bulk
13.5V Float
The DCS 12V 180ah Auxiliary prismatic cell pack (SKU: DCS-12V-180ah) to be charged at:
14.2V Bulk
13.5V Float
Be aware some chargers have fixed charging voltages and cannot be adjusted.
Check the charger specifications for charging voltage levels & charging profiles before purchasing.
Alternator Charging
Our under-bonnet dual battery systems, 80ah Extreme & Slimline range, can be charged directly from the vehicle’s alternator, providing that they are the only battery chemistry being charged.
For example, you cannot parallel a Lithium battery to a lead acid battery and charge from the alternator.
This type of set up has to be separated by using a DC-DC Charger.
If you are parallel connecting batteries together, they have to be the same chemistry, nominal voltage, capacity and age.
Each battery has a maximum charge current listed in the specifications table that should not be exceeded; otherwise, permanent damage could be done to the battery.
When the batteries are parallel connected together, this doubles the amount of current the batteries can be charged at.
For example, our DCS 180ah (2 x 90ah ) dual battery system. The maximum charge current is 80 Amps per battery. So 2 x 80A = 160 Amps. This means you can charge these batteries provided your alternator’s max. output does not exceed 160Amps.
Before choosing a battery, check the maximum output current your alternator can produce and also find out the Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) needed to start your vehicle.
Your factory alternator is generally the best alternator to use, and there is no need for high output aftermarket alternators.
Check the specifications table on the DCS website for the particular battery you are interested in, and look for Lithium Cranking Amps (LCA).
If the LCA meets or exceeds the CCA for your particular vehicle, then the battery is suitable for your vehicle.
Parallel Connected Batteries
Connect Battery 1 Positive to Battery 2 Positive
Connect Battery 1 Negative to Battery 2 Negative ( This cable is extremely important as some vehicles use the chassis as a negative link, which is prone to failing due to corrosion, which causes a high resistance. )
In Balance Wiring
When you have batteries that are wired in parallel, as described above, it is good practice to wire your loads and inputs in balance.
What this means is, for example, to connect loads & inputs positive to the first battery e.g. Battery 1 and the negative loads & inputs to the last parallel connected battery e.g. Battery 2.
This is important when using an inverter that can have a high current draw so that they evenly draw from the parallel connected batteries.
Storage
If you are not going to be using the battery for some time, charge the battery fully to a 100% state of charge using the correct charging profile and voltages.
Disconnect everything off the battery terminals, and it can be left in this state for up to 3 months.
After 3 months, cycle the battery, fully discharge the battery (11.5 volts), then fully charge the battery, and the battery can then be left in this state for another 3 months.
Do Not
- Use a lead acid charger / maintainer on a Lithium battery.
DCS LFP App
Every DCS LFP battery pack comes standard with detailed battery monitoring information via Bluetooth. (BLE 4.0 Technology)
The app can be downloaded to Android or iOS devices that are Bluetooth enabled.
Comprehensive battery monitoring information for DCS LFP batteries include
- SOC%. (State Of Charge)
- Battery pack voltage, Current & Power
- Time Remaining
- Individual Cell Voltage Status
- Battery Management MOSFET temperature
- Connectivity distance up to 10 metres.
Renaming Your Batteries Using The App
- Open the DCS LFP app and connect to the battery.
- Tap on the three horizontal lines on the top right hand corner of the screen.
- Input Password. 736263 > OK
- Name ………… > OK
- Refresh the battery list by tapping the circular arrow.
- Select custom and your battery will now appear in this section.
Modifications
Do not attempt to alter, modify or repair any part of the battery.
Any modifications to the battery will void your warranty.
Fully Discharged Battery
The BMS will emergency open the circuit of the battery terminals to protect the cells. Typically, you will see 3 - 4 volts across the battery terminals when using a multimeter. The BMS needs a 12V supply with at least 1A of current to release and wake up from a cell emergency protection state.
Most mains chargers with a lithium profile will do a slow recovery charge, as will most solar regulators. Some chargers on the market today that are advertised as ‘lithium’ compatible still don’t have the firmware to do a slow recovery charge to release BMSs. If you have a charger that will not wake up the BMS, the easiest way to wake it up is to connect an unregulated solar panel directly to the battery terminals; however, ensure all loads are disconnected before you do this. Having said that, every system should have a suitable low cut-off voltage to shutdown loads/accessories so that the batteries are not fully drained.
“Batteries cannot be left flat/empty; if the low voltage cutoff is triggered, the battery pack should be fully charged as soon as possible. If access to a suitable charger is not possible, disconnect all loads from the battery terminals. The warranty will be void if the battery pack has been left in a low voltage cutoff state for longer than 14 days.”
The most important thing is to isolate everything from the battery terminals, as cables/loads connected to the terminals cause more power drain as the FET gates have to remain closed to cull the accessory standby loads connected to the battery pack + offset BMS standby power consumption.
Incorrect State of Charge Due to a Synchronisation issue:
The state of charge is a calculated value by the BMS and will need to be reset (synchronised) every now and then.
The synchronisation process is automatic and is performed each time the battery is fully charged. The battery monitor (BMS) determines that the battery is fully charged when all 3 "charged" conditions have been met. The "charged" conditions for 12V batteries is:
Charged Voltage (> 14.0 Voltage)
Tail current (4% of battery capacity)
Charge detection time (1 minute)
Electrical Installations Standard ( AS/NZS 3001 . 2 : 2022 ) For Transportable Structures which includes Recreational Vehicles, Caravans etc.
Please note AS/NZS 3001 is made mandatory by electrical legislation in each state and territory.
The new standard includes requirements for “connectable electrical installation batteries” covering any battery that is installed with the primary purpose of supplying the living / accommodation features of a transportable structure, which includes recreational vehicles and caravans etc.
Below is a brief summary of some of the new requirements.
Lithium - Ion Batteries
- The location must be appropriate to ensure that the battery operates within the manufacturer’s defined operating temperatures and IP rating.
- Batteries must be located in a position that prevents any vented gases from entering a habitable area of the recreational vehicle. Any vented gases have to be vented externally from the vehicle. ventilation openings have a minimum vent area requirement, which is calculated based on the ratings of the battery. Any opening into the interior (habitable area) must be provided with an air seal.
- Any metallic service lines (eg. Gas, Diesel, Water etc.) located near the battery must be at least 300mm. clear of the battery terminals or must be shielded with dielectric material to prevent against short circuits.
- A battery must be secured to prevent movement. Restraints must prevent any movement under a pulling force of twice the battery weight.
FAQ
Lithium Ferrophosphate (LFP) is a flame retardant, stable, safe and proven cell chemistry that has a very good energy density around 325 Wh/L. This cell chemistry can be engineered for various applications by adjusting the ratio of elements to provide high performance characteristics. E.g. the DCS marine battery range runs 2C cells, which means our little 75Ah battery will discharge comfortably at 75Ah x 2C = 150A. The DCS 80Ah Extreme runs 10C cells which means the 80A can comfortably discharge at 80Ah x 10C = 800A but is of course limited to lower currents due the the Battery Management System.
LFP also has very good cycling durability between 2,000 ~ 12,000 cycles can be achieved depending on how well the cells are managed, and the lowest rate of capacity loss (aka greater calendar-life) compared to other lithium cell chemistries.
Battery cells are simply a bunch of resistors with the ability to store energy. A 100Ah battery pack has a different resistance characteristic compared to a 50Ah battery pack, that theoretical difference in resistance is 2:1. So if you connect a 100Ah battery in parallel to a 50Ah battery there is no way for these two batteries to equalise and therefore you can’t charge them correctly. So for example connecting a 60Ah calcium starting battery to a 120Ah AGM via a VSR (Voltage Sensing Relay) you cannot charge both batteries correctly and from that day onwards you are prematurely destroying both battery packs. Same theory applies with lithium’s it’s still a battery pack.
What’s the solution? A DC-DC charger, you now have a permanent point of isolation (meaning that both batteries are never connected to each other in parallel). The DC-DC charger takes the surplus power from battery A (engine) and chargers battery B (aux/house). This device now allows any battery capacity and or chemistry to be used.
Yes you can, but lithium’s have a different voltage curve, so you would still need to use a programmable VSR to dial them in correctly. You would also need to ensure the batteries are programmed to never exceed a 10%SOC variance, any larger and you risk damaging the BMS's. These devices also draw a lot of power when engaged to so it’s best to run the two batteries in permanent parallel and run a load disconnect instead of a VSR.
Lithium battery cells have a super low resistance so are very easy to charge and very efficient. This level of efficiency means you can charge them at very high C rates. For example if you look at the charge rate of a 100Ah AGM battery the recommended charging current will be around 25A, which is a 0.25C charge rate. If you consider the DCS 12V 100Ah Lithium battery it can be charged at up to 70A which is a 0.70C charge rate. This means you no longer need to consider DC-DC chargers as you can connect our batteries directly to high power charging devices such as suitable alternators, or large buck boosters. For example our popular dual 90Ah battery system for boats and 4WD vehicles, can be connected to alternators up to 160A.
Because our batteries are internally voltage regulated and because our BMS has such a high sustainable peak discharge current they will do an amazing job of equalising very quickly.
The BMS will emergency open circuit the battery terminals to protect the cells. This means there is no longer any resistance in the system. The BMS needs a 12V supply with at least 1A of current to release and wakeup from a cell emergency protection state.
Most mains chargers with a lithium profile will do a slow recovery charge as will most solar regulators. Some chargers on the market today that are advertised as ‘lithium’ compatible still don’t have the firmware to do a slow recovery charge to release BMS’s. If you have a charger that will not wakeup the BMS, easiest way to wake it up is to connect a unregulated solar panel directly to the battery terminals, ensure all loads are disconnected before you do this. Having said that every system should have a suitable low cut off voltage to shutdown loads/accessories so that the batteries are not fully drained.
"Batteries cannot be left flat/empty, if the low voltage cutoff is triggered the battery pack should be fully charged as soon as possible. If access to a suitable charger is not possible, disconnect all loads from the battery terminals. The warranty will be void if the battery pack has been left in a low voltage cutoff state for longer than 14 days."
Most important thing is to isolate everything from the battery terminals, as cables/loads connected to the terminals causes more power drain as the FET gates have to remain closed to cull the accessory standby loads connected to the battery pack + offset BMS standby power consumption.
Use the following settings:
Charged voltage 14.0V
Tail current 4%
Charged detection time 1min
Peukert 1.05
Charge efficiency 98%
Current threshold 0.1A
C rates: refer to the battery pack capacity
Fully charge to 100% isolate everything from the terminals and leave for max 3 months and then cycle (fully discharge and fully charge) and leave again for 3 months etc…. Minimum 4 cycles per year to not effect the cells capacity.
The reason many factory batteries fall over after 9/12 months is because modern/smart alternators typically drop the alternators voltage output to 13.5/13.6V. This voltage is not high enough to charge wet/calcium/lead acid batteries so from the getgo they are destined to fail prematurely. They are typically under charged to around ~80%SOC at these voltages.
So what happens when DCS Hybrid batteries are connected to smart alternators? Exactly the same thing they get charged to around the same 80%SOC. However because LFP has no memory effect that's perfectly fine. By only charging to 80% you are further improving the service life of our batteries. It's no not necessary to charge our batteries over 80%SOC. The only advantage is that you give the BMS a chance to detect full charge voltage and calibrate the SOC readout. So try to plug into mains once a week to fully charge your batteries, especially if your not running any fixed solar supply.
All DCS 12V cylindrical cell packs can be charged as follows:
Bulk: 14.4V
Float: 13.5V
The DCS 12V 180Ah Auxiliary prismatic cell packs (SKU: DCS-12V-180Ah) need to be charged as follows:
Bulk: 14.2V
Float: 13.5V
When the battery pack is discharged down to 11.50V the BMS resets to 0%SOC and now is placed in a relearning state - the pack must be fully charged continuously without stopping to calibrate again. Charge it on a mains charger to 14.60V.
Depending on the usage pattern, best to fully cycle the batteries once every 3 months to give the cells a refresh. To fully cycle a 12V pack discharge to 11.50V and charge to 14.60V.
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