Why you should compress your LiFePO4 battery! And why it does not matter... 🤷‍♂️

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 17 เม.ย. 2023
  • I know, I know... the oldest question since the invention of lithium batteries again: should you compress or should you not compress your cells?
    To answer this question, I have here some information form a battery expert which I explain very detailed in this video. Mainly, there is only one reason to compress your cells. And this only for a certain amount of time.
    Well, who would have thought that the actual reason so many people compress, has nothing to do with extending the life of the batteries.
    All information here in this video...
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    Why compression will not extend battery life (something else kills your battery): • Why compression will n...
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ความคิดเห็น • 502

  • @tiredofeverythingnew
    @tiredofeverythingnew ปีที่แล้ว +44

    In this video, host Andy discusses the topic of battery compression for lithium iron phosphate cells, explaining the reasons behind compressing cells and why it sometimes doesn't matter. The video focuses on the insights from Marcus, a battery expert who has studied electrode materials in lithium batteries.
    Marcus explains that compressing cells is not meant to prevent swelling and delamination, as this occurs on an atomic level and cannot be stopped by any amount of force. The actual reason for compressing cells is to squeeze out tiny gas bubbles that arise from the porous material inside the cell during the first few charging cycles. This helps improve the battery's overall performance and longevity.
    However, Andy also emphasizes that compression might not matter in certain cases, such as when cells are purchased from resellers who haven't compressed them during testing. In these cases, the damage has already been done and compressing them later on would not make a difference in the lifetime of the batteries.

    • @OffGridGarageAustralia
      @OffGridGarageAustralia  ปีที่แล้ว +22

      Jeeeez, I should copy and past this in my description of the video...
      Or use it as a script for a 1min long video instead of 12min 🤔

    • @J_i_m_
      @J_i_m_ ปีที่แล้ว +5

      @@OffGridGarageAustralia Just ask ChatGPT to summarize your video (provide it the youtube transcript or use a plugin) and you get exactly that description.

    • @AndreaMastrilli
      @AndreaMastrilli ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@OffGridGarageAustralia used gocharlie

    • @faded.0913
      @faded.0913 ปีที่แล้ว

      So you're saying that even if I compress my cells they could still possibly become bloated enough to cause an air gap if pushed too hard?

    • @volodymyrzakolodyazhny7740
      @volodymyrzakolodyazhny7740 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Thank you for compacting it, you saved me several minutes.

  • @hummmingbear
    @hummmingbear ปีที่แล้ว +54

    I gave my cells a big hug when I got them and hopefully that squeezed out all the bubbles. I compress them with my love.

  • @Eulhofer
    @Eulhofer 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    "Der Drops ist gelutscht" - so nice.... Thank you and many greeting from rainy and cold germany, Wolfgang

  • @user-pi1uz2zj7i
    @user-pi1uz2zj7i ปีที่แล้ว +23

    Two possible scenarios I think a fixture (not necessarily compression) could be a good thing. I built two 48v batteries 1 year ago, one of them is installed in my boat - I wanted to minimise damage caused by vibration. The other battery is running my house. The key thing here I used flexible bus bars on both batteries between all cells to allow small movement due to vibration and swelling. I was more concerned about any movement damaging the cell terminals / electrodes.

    • @LaBamba690
      @LaBamba690 11 วันที่ผ่านมา

      If the bus bars are long enough, there will be a gap between the cells and therefore, the tiny swelling will not cause the cells to touch each other or apply any force on the terminals. So flexible bus bars aren't necessary in that case. And as Andy said, it's good to have some space between cells for ventilation to keep their temperature lower - assuming the load current is high enough to raise their temperature significantly enough to need the ventilation.

  • @waldemarfrank7546
    @waldemarfrank7546 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Danke Andy für kurze und gute Erklärung. Dann bin ich auch beruhigt und werde an meinen akkus nichts ändern und mir keinen Kopf zerbrechen. Top Videos mach weiter so.

  • @VladBYT
    @VladBYT ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hello ! I have started to build my own 12v battery after I have seen all your videos from the beginning until now. It is a small project but I am learning. Congratulations for all your good work and good advices! You are the best !

  • @aday1637
    @aday1637 ปีที่แล้ว +20

    When I built mine 1-1/2 years ago, I used your recommendations regarding compression (none). I was getting nervous after your recent vids. Glad you sorted this out for us.

    • @OffGridGarageAustralia
      @OffGridGarageAustralia  ปีที่แล้ว +7

      I did a lot of research when I build mine back then but information were rare. We're a bit better situated these days and have more information and also experience on hand.

    • @RolandOfGileadOnYT
      @RolandOfGileadOnYT ปีที่แล้ว

      @@OffGridGarageAustralia what about 'overcompressing'? Does that exist? Or will the compressing wood/steel/etc, still expand a little?

    • @VinceBadovinatz88
      @VinceBadovinatz88 ปีที่แล้ว

      ​@@OffGridGarageAustralia I think your newest thought about the compression sounds very logical. I imagine it's very correct. With all the practice you have now and all the extra knowledge in the world about it.😊

    • @markusb69
      @markusb69 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @RolandOfGileadOnYT Hi Roland, Markus here ;) .
      First of all thanks to Andy. Never thought about becoming that kind of "famous" with lauching Dominik's video :DD.
      Regarding your concerns about some kind of overpressure - Yes it is possible, but not with usual or non-professional tools.
      I have to explain it in detail: There are two sorts of expansion: The cyclic one while charging and discharging and the irreversible one caused by the effect of loosen electrode material.
      As I explained in that video, electrodes are compacted by calandering to increase volumetric capacity with a higher density.
      Especially during the first cycles the electrode is still in original shape and the expansion is caused by the intercalation of Lithium-Atoms into the Graphite-Layers.
      This expansion cannot being stopped.
      If you think about that all pairs of electrodes have a thin layer of separator between cathode and anode and this separator usually is made from a stretched foil of Polyethylene / Polypropylene you can imagine what´s the weaker part.... It´s the separator.
      So if you press that batttery with very very high forces and hold it constant to this distance with 100% stiffness, the force increases enormously while charging and the expansion of the anode raises until the anode penetrates or even pierce through the separator which which therafter will destroy the battery.

    • @RolandOfGileadOnYT
      @RolandOfGileadOnYT ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@markusb69 Hello Markus, thank you for your answer. I was asking, because someone at the DIY Solar Forum asked about this, he had the impression he compressed the cells to the point where the (short) side of the case buckeled inwards ever so slightly.
      I myself have a battery with plywood on both ends and threaded rods, and compressed/locked the cells in place (there's a insulation between cells), until I couldn't move the cells anymore. Afterwards, I wondered if I should have made the blue cell wrapping somewhat less slippery first, so the cells would be fixed in place with somewhat less force. The corners of the case still don't touch eachother.
      But from reading your answer, I'll take it that as long as you don't truely crush the aluminum casing, you should be fine, cause the stuff we use to hold the cells won't be strong enough to withstand the forces that cause this minor expansion during cycling?

  • @davidpatrick1813
    @davidpatrick1813 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Thank you for helping my upstairs to function better... good research and reporting.

  • @mikemcguire5859
    @mikemcguire5859 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thanks for clearing up all that information.

  • @edwardvanhazendonk
    @edwardvanhazendonk ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for sharing Andy, now I have another channel to watch as well 🤔, you made good points. I think I like your option of spacing between cells as your busbars won't get tense by the expansion of cells. Keep the sunny side up down under!

  • @ralfkremer8882
    @ralfkremer8882 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Hey Andy, great you used that fantastic Interview video. What is missing now is the aspect of connecting the cells. Bus bars are rigid whereas cables connect the cells in a flexible way and can compensate the breathing of the cells …

  • @gumpster6
    @gumpster6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great breakdown on this issue where nobody could really give a clear answer. Happy to see it put to rest.

  • @AveRage_Joe
    @AveRage_Joe ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great information Andy! Love it and thank you for sharing!!! I have not heard some of that! You are 100% correct how some of those places test there 1000 cells at a time. I was sent a similar video and pictures when I purchased mine lol. I would like to add one benefit of compressing or fixing a group of cells. The accidental or unintentional overcharging of a cell or cells from a faulty bms or whatever the reason. You can prevent the pack from making a smiley face😀which may help from damaging other cells and depending on the area the cells are in could prevent damage to other equipment. Dont mind me, I over think EVERYTHING!! 🙄

  • @jdbrinton
    @jdbrinton 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Finally, a definitive answer on this subject. Thank you so much!!

  • @user-sm3xq5ob5d
    @user-sm3xq5ob5d ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Congrats! Your are the first I watch who has gotten it and explained it in a very clear way. Remains the question what would have happened to your "certified" cells which spread apart. I think it helps to keep the cells in check so no readjustment of solid bars is necessary. If you have flexible busbars then it might not matter.
    So there might be a mechanical advantage to apply some pressure to the cells.

    • @user-sm3xq5ob5d
      @user-sm3xq5ob5d ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I developed a way to administer the right amount of compression to the cells with my cordless screwdriver. I didn't want to buy another tool (torque wrench) which I would use only one time. So I thought about the screwdriver I already own because its torque can be adjusted. Albeit with no calibrated settings.
      To find the right setting I used bathroom scales and a lever. The lever was attached to a board at one end with a long screw. Halfways I made a hole in the lever and the board through which I put the actual threaded rod I want to use on the battery. The far end got a short screw which pressed on the scale. So I had a 1:2 ratio of the middle and the end forces. The 300kgf on the battery cells will be achieved by four tensioning rods. So a single rod has to produce 75kgf of pull. On my setup if the 75kgf have been reached at the middle of the lever the scale would show 32.5kg. I let the cordless screwdriver tighten the nut on the rod until the scale showed 30kg. Then I turned the clutch setting back until it clicked (released) at that scale reading. I marked the setting and that gave me the torque wrench setting I need.

  • @malk6277
    @malk6277 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks Andy - between this video and the other one you linked to, you've laid out a lot of great info. I can now see how compression won't make a difference in my use case!

  • @FutureSystem738
    @FutureSystem738 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Great one Andy, answers a LOT of questions. We’re all still learning about these cells, and probably will still be in 30 years, (though based on family history I won’t be here then.)
    However in the meantime, I’m still planning to be here anyway. Maybe I can beat the odds, and maybe my batteries will also still be going. 😁

  • @Tech4UbyJames
    @Tech4UbyJames ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I love how people get so beside themselves because we don't do what they think we should do. Andy you do you! And if no one likes it oh well. I love ya!!! Keep doing you!!!

  • @achimxe2617
    @achimxe2617 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for the great in depth knowledge about batteries!

  • @j.j.alexander9542
    @j.j.alexander9542 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you for the information. Exceptionally well explained.

  • @matthewknight5641
    @matthewknight5641 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Andy... i dont have a lot of money and i just received my first 8 lifepo4 and the other 8 should be here in a few days. Im building a 560 ah eve battery with grade a cells. I need my batteries to last as long as possible and i appreciate the work you do and all the videos. Hopefully they last a long time and give me and the wife years of off grid life.

  • @Zerobrain
    @Zerobrain ปีที่แล้ว +21

    Great Video!
    I especially liked the part that you watched the my video several times ;-)

    • @OffGridGarageAustralia
      @OffGridGarageAustralia  ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Here is the man himself. Thanks for the video and information. It was a great show!

  • @jamieandrews3238
    @jamieandrews3238 ปีที่แล้ว

    Andy thank you for this video!
    It has really helped.
    I was getting so much contradicting information and was just confusing.
    This is a really solid explanation

  • @imag555
    @imag555 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Thanks again Andy! Great information always

  • @wallneo7800
    @wallneo7800 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hey Andy,
    danke für deine informativen Videos! Hier kann man wirklich einiges für seine eigene PV Anlage mitnehmen.
    Weiter so! 💯

    • @digital-experiance2390
      @digital-experiance2390 ปีที่แล้ว

      Bitte nicht auf den Blödsinn von Andy hören. Der verbreitet so viel falsches, nur um Klicks zu bekommen. Es gibt sehr viele gute Gründe, die Zellen mit Kompression einzubauen. Andy hat leider wenig davon verstanden. Aber dies ist ja bei seinen Videos üblich.
      Jeder lernt, manche eben nur mit Try-n-error...

  • @CarstenSaager
    @CarstenSaager ปีที่แล้ว +6

    One obvious benefit from compression is that you fix the whole assembly to avoid stress on the busbars,and you are right,for this you don't need much force, the assembled batteries in a PE casing does the job

    • @gg-gn3re
      @gg-gn3re 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      yea he didn't even mention it. But the bus bars don't matter, the things they are connected to do (anode/cathode terminals)
      If you build the batteries directly touching and straight bus bars it'll damage the anode and cathode terminals.
      best is the leave a say.. 2mm gap between the cells or something if you aren't going to put something between it. at least they will last then

  • @OneStepToEscape
    @OneStepToEscape ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you, Andy! Especially for the Markus video link

  • @markmac9515
    @markmac9515 ปีที่แล้ว

    Very good explanation, thanks.

  • @landonashby2029
    @landonashby2029 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I Compress my cells for one reason...ease of handling. I do this with 12v 4 cell builds. I use the compressed cell battery in small mobile setups. I use 4" electrical tape to do this and makes the cells easy to handle like the format of a lead acid car battery. 😊

  • @dieselbstversorgerfamilie
    @dieselbstversorgerfamilie ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you so much for your informations aboute compress cells or not. My research has revealed the same. And thank you for your very informative videos! Greetings from Sweden...

  • @keyem4504
    @keyem4504 ปีที่แล้ว

    That's been really interesting. Thanks for sharing. Any we have to understand, that when that another of cycles the batteries are still at 80%. No reason to throw them away if you ask me.
    And I love you too, Andy😘

  • @garysmith9080
    @garysmith9080 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great practical stuff once again

  • @domotica_solar
    @domotica_solar ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Congratulations for the video...great information and great show 😉

  • @jovanhouten9050
    @jovanhouten9050 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great video. Thanks for sorting that one out.
    However.…., You still might want to “compress” your batterie cells for mechanical reasons. Assuming that some stationary batteries are going to be moved around, especially by DIYers, a form of mechanical fixing might be a good idea. Packed with EVA foam in between the cells, EVA foam will compress as the battery cells expand. The cells will more likely maintain their position and this will reduce the stress on the busbars and terminals.

  • @Flowing23
    @Flowing23 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Excellent excellent information. Very valuable, thank you very much.

    • @OffGridGarageAustralia
      @OffGridGarageAustralia  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks Rob. Thought it would be interesting to extract these info from this video and share it.

  • @spiritseer001
    @spiritseer001 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Keep it up brother! Very informative video! ❤

  • @HC4L666
    @HC4L666 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Great Info Andy !!

  • @ToddDesiato
    @ToddDesiato ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Brilliant, Andy! We should discuss Warp Drive someday. I think your insights would be valued. I hope you enjoyed the beer!

  • @HarrisRanch
    @HarrisRanch ปีที่แล้ว

    Awesome information. The beer is on me! Cheers😀

  • @Christian76S
    @Christian76S ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks for picking this up Andy

  • @lightitrun5209
    @lightitrun5209 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Thanks Andy. Another great, informative video. We just can't stop learning from you. What are we going to do if/when a new battery chemistry is introduced? Can't wait! Fun fun fun or spat spat spat😊

    • @OffGridGarageAustralia
      @OffGridGarageAustralia  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Learning will never stop for us, I guess. Oh a new chemistry??? What may that be?

    • @M-Clem
      @M-Clem ปีที่แล้ว

      Nickel-Iron battery ?

    • @OffGridGarageAustralia
      @OffGridGarageAustralia  ปีที่แล้ว

      @@M-Clem Can you buy single cells already or is this still future?

  • @dahuar2006
    @dahuar2006 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great explanation. Thank you!

  • @dennydewaal137
    @dennydewaal137 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    🤔brilliantly solved Andy

  • @brianscally3439
    @brianscally3439 ปีที่แล้ว

    well done Andy!
    I retain my cells, which looks a lot like compression, because I my solar cells are mobile. and shaky moving cells is bad.
    I think this is a valid case.

  • @ML-hf6ii
    @ML-hf6ii 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    one of not so many channels that really deserves subscription

  • @dongjuang4196
    @dongjuang4196 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks for information!

  • @lickalittle
    @lickalittle ปีที่แล้ว

    Excellent research 👏 B-

  • @TheRonskiman
    @TheRonskiman ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Interesting video. Good job that my compressed cells are EVE grade a cells, from a supplier I trust. I also didn't test or charge them until they were compressed. Mine are cycled every day or two.

  • @tryingtosucceed
    @tryingtosucceed ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Hi, I bought some 20 year old winston thundersky 60ah, Capacity is 50ah, so calendar ageing is pretty slow, they were factory compressed in 3 cell packs.

  • @airgead5391
    @airgead5391 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Excellent!

  • @TrevorFraserAU
    @TrevorFraserAU ปีที่แล้ว

    Once again, my knowledge has grown ten fold! You are dishing out gold nuggets free! Think it is time for another round of S.P.A.T. sponsorship!

  • @wayne8113
    @wayne8113 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks Andy

  • @carlh2007
    @carlh2007 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thanks Andy for the reassurance on my decision not to compress for my 12v 280ah pack I made. I cycle it aprox 12 times per year so it will make 0 difference for me.

  • @JR-kk6ce
    @JR-kk6ce ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Almost two years ago I had a translated conversation in China with a CATL rep. I was told that the main enemy of Lifepo4 cells is moisture, and that a deep vacuum is applied to the cells prior to sealing in order to convert any moisture into a gas, remove as much moisture as possible, and that any remaining moisture in gas form was not expected to cause damage The compression I was told was to help maintain cell vacuum and keep any moisture present, no matter how little, in gas form where it will cause no damage. So, now I have even more questions. Actually, questions upon questions which lead to even more questions. Given that spent time is the only thing which we can never recover, I'm ready to move on.

    • @FutureSystem738
      @FutureSystem738 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yeah- I’m sure we will know a lot more about these cells in thirty years time. Problem is: I won’t still be here 😅
      It’s all still fascinating though, great stuff and great research and testing by Andy.
      At least my seven plus years old LFP Winston cells are still awesome.

    • @vastirvision
      @vastirvision 15 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@FutureSystem738 I realize that this is an old comment, but on the off chance that you may see this and reply:
      I have been highly interested in these Winston cells, yet I have been unable to find much info on them in terms of real world experience. You have that, so if you might kindly answer a couple of questions I'd be greatly appreciative:
      1) In what application are you using the Winston cells (ESS, EV, mobile/marine, etc.)?
      2) What size cells do you have? What is your pack voltage, and in what configuration are they assembled (i.e. 16s1p, 8s3p)
      What really intrigues me about them is the manufacturer's claim that the Winston batteries, due to the yttrium, can be safely charged in low temp environments that far exceed that of a typical LFP battery. Any info you can offer is greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!

    • @FutureSystem738
      @FutureSystem738 14 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@vastirvision My Winston cells are 400Ah cells in just a 4s (ie: 12v) configuration in my large caravan. I built the pack at the beginning of 2016, and for many years operated them without any kind of BMS, just keeping a bit of an eye on balance with individual cell voltage monitoring, and using very conservative voltages to avoid any chance of a cell going high, and typically 13.8v top of charge = 3.45v/cell. (They’re bolted in to the caravan under some degree of compression.)
      I actually manually balanced them slightly maybe about three?? times.
      Then I added a JK BMS a year or so ago, which keeps them extremely well balanced, usually to within 2 millivolts, and as a result I upped the top of charge to 14v = 3.5v per cell.
      Although I have never FULLY capacity tested them since installing, I often discharge to about 20% and have noticed no capacity loss since the beginning of 2016.
      I have about 1kW of solar, and we use them for everything including hot water, fridge, induction cooker, microwave, and even some airconditioner use (heating and cooling) when solar conditions are good. If the weather is not so good, we revert to using some LPG for hot water and cooking to reduce electrical demands.
      I was not aware of any claims about charging at lower temps- have always avoided any charging if they’re close to 0 Celsius.

  • @lomsi1
    @lomsi1 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Brilliant !! Could also be titled " The debate around A & B grade cells...and why it doesn't matter". A suggestion for follow on video. What things really matter for a long lifetime from you LPF batteries..

  • @nn858121q
    @nn858121q ปีที่แล้ว +2

    its so Andy !! Thanks

  • @dor642
    @dor642 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Vielen Dank, well explained 👍

  • @uweknofel9149
    @uweknofel9149 ปีที่แล้ว +21

    Apart from the arguments regarding cycle and aging of the cells, would not compressing (eg fixing ) them make sense to keep the busbars in position ? Or is it actually the other way round, always leave a bit space between the cells for the ‚swelling‘ so that there is no impact on the busbars ? ( not a option in campers / boats )

    • @electro2606
      @electro2606 ปีที่แล้ว

      The bus bars have space in them like 4-5 mm

    • @marlomontanaro3233
      @marlomontanaro3233 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Like Andy said, you cannot stop the expansion. Nothing on this earth can stop the expansion. So, something has to give! If the cells are compressed, I think you do more damage to the battery terminals under a tremendous amount of physical stress.

    • @TheRonskiman
      @TheRonskiman ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@marlomontanaro3233 not if you've got flexible bus burs.

    • @RJ-cc1fz
      @RJ-cc1fz ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Flexible busbars hands down

    • @OffGridGarageAustralia
      @OffGridGarageAustralia  ปีที่แล้ว +9

      I guess, either flexibles bars or space in between the cells to prevent any force on the terminals. Both🤔

  • @bossveendam
    @bossveendam หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks for this insight, Andy! Will check out Markus' story also!

  • @svn5669
    @svn5669 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you ! Clear !

  • @donmcleod8307
    @donmcleod8307 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Brilliant. Thank you

  • @fldutch
    @fldutch ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thx for the video.
    I built a clamp for initial testing my cells after reading that manual - not made of out metal, but out of "18mm Siebdruckplatte", and i do not exactly compress to 300kg. Well - first cell of eight i tested without that clamp, all the other cells with clamp. And i have to admit: the first cell got a little more bloated then the others - not really exactly measured it, but you could see the slight difference. Cells were nearly perfectly flat before testing (EVE LF280K Grade A Cells from NKON).
    Well another aspect: when you compress flat cells with a force of 300kg and cells will expand anyway (on that atomic level), the pressure might rise above 300kg leading to damaging the cells 🤔? Not sure about that, so i do compress my cells a little using a compressed sturdy closed foam piece that can expand when pressures rises.
    The video is definetly worth watching - and stills leaves some unanswered question :). I'm curious when there will be a followup.

  • @boatelectricaldiy
    @boatelectricaldiy ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Another great video, one of your best Andy.
    Fixture IS important, but no, you don't have to do it. Cycle life might not be important in your high capacity installation, but most DIY installations are on a budget, and cycle way more then you do. My marine customers usually do a 600AH 12vdc installation that gets a full cycle every day or two. These installations average 250 to 300 cycles a year for my commercial customers that recharge with a diesel generator or shore power (no solar).
    You brought up something I'm pretty sure I failed to mention in my previous explanations. The cells do in fact swell and compress. Like I motioned in previous comments, the major swelling you've experienced is avoidable with a fixture, it's why I said that cells should only be removed when empty. The level of swelling you've experienced is completely avoidable.
    As for your statement that cells won't be damaged by compressing after they have severe swelling, my friend I encourage you to do so and see for yourself the fluid flowing out of the seal( It will make a great video =). Fluid breaking though the seal is damage. The question then becomes, how much damage can be done before cell capacity is affected? I personally have have not been willing to push past the seal breaking point after doing it the first time. If you flatten them until they are as flat as new cells will they burst and compromise the vacuum? inquiring minds want to know. Lets see that video Andy! For Science!!1

    • @FutureSystem738
      @FutureSystem738 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Wow, yes, that would make a great video! 😮
      I have Winston cells in my RV that I assembled with significant compression, and flexible Busbars. To my knowledge they’re still virtually as good as new. Although I haven’t disassembled the pack (big job in a tight space!), nor done a full scientific capacity test, I have noticed zero problems with daily use and the occasional deeper discharge, and they are still absolutely fabulous.
      I also have a friend who has “abused” his a lot more than me, with some low voltage AND high voltage “excursions”, with no BMS. They’re also still fine.

  • @wideawaketotruth5301
    @wideawaketotruth5301 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Wow, another informative video.

  • @rosmisha
    @rosmisha 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great and powerful research! Greetings from Ukraine, I am just getting ready for winter shutdowns and will build my lifepo4 battery. Your videos help me a lot with this

    • @OffGridGarageAustralia
      @OffGridGarageAustralia  8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      You should have all the info here on the channel. Take care!

  • @Juergen_Miessmer
    @Juergen_Miessmer ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Danke!
    You made my day !
    👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍
    I hug my cells carefully.

  • @ffh.linared
    @ffh.linared ปีที่แล้ว

    Fantastic video.
    👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
    Thanks!

  • @5885ronny
    @5885ronny ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Danke fürs Video 👍👌

  • @HalilKacmaz-dq1bc
    @HalilKacmaz-dq1bc หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    And whether you compress your cells or not, we always love you Andy

  • @stevenfrazier8939
    @stevenfrazier8939 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Good Job

  • @MrBigbela
    @MrBigbela 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thank you!

  • @alexsimmons1803
    @alexsimmons1803 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Some level of battery fixing to assist prevent/reduce stress on terminals is probably worthwhile though. Or flexible busbars.

    • @eagleray1
      @eagleray1 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Agreed, although based upon Digital Mermaid's heat tests of rigid vs. flexible bus bars, I think the verdict is in that flexible is better all around if you're willing to put the work in to construct them.

    • @alexsimmons1803
      @alexsimmons1803 ปีที่แล้ว

      ​@@paul_dz Which requires customising busbars rather than using the standard ones supplied.

  • @Michael-AUS
    @Michael-AUS ปีที่แล้ว +4

    But, what about the cell terminals? If the expansion pushes the cells apart by even 5mm per cell, won't that mean that a row of 8 cells has the potential to expand by around 40mm in total? Busbars with with low tolerances might therefore cause pressure on the cell terminals and damage them as a result. I think light compression (using Kapton tape perhaps) could help in this regard. It also helps keep the battery together in the event of an earthquake too. 😉 Love your show btw.

  • @ThePuddingham
    @ThePuddingham 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Firstly; thanks for your fantastic input (output?) Andy…. Secondly; I’m trying to commission (!) a 16S set of 340Ah cells before Xmas and struggling to see see through the miasma! I am now a bit more relaxed about it but there is one thing that strikes me: How does one apply 300kg of force to a battery pack?!?!?! Mine are envisaged to be organised in two rows of 8. That’s therefore 600kg over the two faces. Incredible! I had decided to use threaded bars in conjunction with flat plates of currently unknown dimension and material and spring load the bars with old engine valve springs, to prevent exponential pressure changes as the cells wax and wane, but now I’m not convinced that my springs are man enough.

  • @dazrichie897
    @dazrichie897 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thankyou for confirming... IT DOESN'T MATTER!! 😅😅🎉

  • @petervandeburgt7414
    @petervandeburgt7414 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks Andy.
    I am though, going to replace the busbars with flexible cable and lugs as I do believe that there is stress on those terminals. And I dont think that will do any battery any good.
    Luv ya effort.

  • @user-ww6jb5cd2p
    @user-ww6jb5cd2p 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks for the information !!!!!! stay safe sir

  • @marcoarpago
    @marcoarpago ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you Andy fantastic video :) very very helpfull

  • @calvinflager4457
    @calvinflager4457 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Another THANK YOU.

  • @camielkotte
    @camielkotte ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thank you. I did not compress and run an oven on my 24v system at .5c and the cells are happy. Not that much swell but all is well.

  •  ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Personal experiment over a three year span:
    LiPo cells not lifepo4 but close enough for the comparation.
    The packs consisted of six 8Ah cells. There were two packs.
    All exterior (outer) cells swollen with age and gentle, much below specifications. Cells were specified to run from 3.5v to 4.20v at 15C. I used them within the voltage range, strictly, and peak currents were below 4C, mostly below 1C.
    All four cells that were on the outside of the packs are swollen, lost their capacity beyond usefulness but the interior remaining cells that were kept compressed inside are still above 80% capacity and not swollen.

  • @carmichaelmoritz8662
    @carmichaelmoritz8662 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I've only ever purchased use cells. I hope you still love me 🤣😂🤣👍🤟👌

  • @roberrbush5446
    @roberrbush5446 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I have saw someone did that and it blowed out just like you said. I wonder if you compress will the pressure not billed up in it.

  • @bluemu
    @bluemu ปีที่แล้ว

    Andy, if you were using the cells for vehicle propulsion, discharging over say 4 hrs then charging 4 hrs, again and again, then the number of cycles would be vital wouldn't it? Hence compression from day 1 seems to be best. But... as you ask, it only needs to be for a "few" cycles. Thank you for your great vids!

  • @Remigius0815
    @Remigius0815 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Best channel on TH-cam ✅

  • @seriusrod
    @seriusrod ปีที่แล้ว

    That's so interesting.
    So on your reasoning, organizing the cells in a configuration where they lay on their side, as was shown on your video on the clip of the reseller, would also be harmful?

  • @Jonyys
    @Jonyys ปีที่แล้ว +3

    the end is good 😁

  • @bkytube1978
    @bkytube1978 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Einfach die geilsten Videos. Kompression ist einfach dafür da das starre Zellverbinder sich nicht bewegen oder so 🙂

  • @dirk_p
    @dirk_p ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Der Drobs ist gelutscht hat mir gefallen 😂 thanks again for the valuable knowledge

  • @robjohnston8632
    @robjohnston8632 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Great video Andy. I think you should put compression on the top shelf of the battery 1.0 and leave the other two shelves without compression. In 33 years we will know which lasted longer. 😂

    • @chrispaul7401
      @chrispaul7401 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I think you have hit the nail on the head here.
      We don’t have actual evidence of what these cells will be like in 33 years.
      Everything is hypothetical.

    • @FutureSystem738
      @FutureSystem738 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@chrispaul7401 Whilst different in that they have a plastic case, my Winston LFP battery in my caravan (12v/400Ah) is still absolutely fabulous after well over seven years, so that’s a great start.
      Will they still be around at 30 years of age? I doubt it, but likely neither will I. 😅

  • @chrysM34
    @chrysM34 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you !!!

  • @j.badinter988
    @j.badinter988 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    LifePo4 cell usr manual recommends a compression fixture. Why even bother to not do it? What is wrong about compression?

    • @OffGridGarageAustralia
      @OffGridGarageAustralia  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Nothing wrong with a fixture. Just wanted to share the information about why the cells swell and why a fixture is recommended. But not necessary.

  • @johncampbell2311
    @johncampbell2311 ปีที่แล้ว

    The reasons that you listed I would not compress a cell for. Why I would compress a cell is I don't want the terminals to be shifting in applying pressure. Just like you did when you check your battery rack you readjusted the gapping. There's two ways of doing taking yourselves apart and adjusting them every so often or just clamp them down so they don't shift.

  • @chrispaul7401
    @chrispaul7401 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    As others have said, the movement of uncompressed cells can cause stress on the terminals.
    I setup 16 eve 280 cells uncompressed and after about 20 cycles the noticeable swelling on about half the cells (interestingly it was not even) was pushing the bottom of the cells apart due to the clamping force on the terminal.
    They are now clamped with braided bars!
    Separately, Mine do one full cycle per day.
    If uncompressed means I only get 2500 cycles, that is under the 10year calendar life and crosses over to the point where compression could extend the useful life????

  • @fabiant.3628
    @fabiant.3628 ปีที่แล้ว

    Danke!

  • @Oleg_John
    @Oleg_John 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    An NKON company representative recommends compression. I don't think it can get any worse. Or better yet, questionable. I do the compression with two metal plates and four 8mm studs. Self-soothing is a great thing!
    Thank you for the video.
    Oleg, Ukraine.

  • @danfitzpatrick4112
    @danfitzpatrick4112 ปีที่แล้ว +17

    Great stuff!
    For me now... what becomes more of a concern when putting together a battery bank? I'm thinking that a solid connection (Bus bar) between positive and negative between each battery could be a point of failure over time, as the natural expansion and contraction happens with the cells and pulls on the terminals of the battery.
    I believe that a space between the cells to begin with should be a good start, then using an expandable electrical connection between the posts should be even better. (Like what maddie the mermaid uses). 🍻

    • @danfitzpatrick4112
      @danfitzpatrick4112 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@davidb.5544 Yes, those would be great as well!

    • @RJ-cc1fz
      @RJ-cc1fz ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Compression prevents unnecessary expansion. Yes some expansion is not able to be prevented. Excess unnecessary expansion can cause delamination. I use springs to keep the cells constantly close to the proper compression. Overcharging or overdischarging causes delamination. Proper compression can stop excess expansion during those mistakes. That’s why the manufacturers of the cells recommend a specific pressure

    • @OffGridGarageAustralia
      @OffGridGarageAustralia  ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Dan, also what will happen in batteries which have welded busbars (QSO for example)...?

    • @danfitzpatrick4112
      @danfitzpatrick4112 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@OffGridGarageAustralia Right!, Good point!

    • @onthelake9554
      @onthelake9554 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@OffGridGarageAustralia Just about all welded bus bars I have seen have had the hump in the middle and the cells have been in a fixture .

  • @ivoscuka8537
    @ivoscuka8537 ปีที่แล้ว

    I just checked my Victron Connect BMV-700 [Google -> Upgrade ostrovní elektrárny 12-36kW, LiFePo4]. It let me know, that for the last 16 months (Jan-2022 I installed BMV-700) I did 13 total charge cycles. So in my case, for 2500 cycles I have to charge/discharge my cells for 256 years. Well I am fine with these numbers.😀. Thank you Andy, you are great!

  • @touqeershah7563
    @touqeershah7563 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great great great..... Thnx a lot

  • @VinceBadovinatz88
    @VinceBadovinatz88 ปีที่แล้ว

    I love the videos. You really make it fun. If you're not making money on this there's something wrong hahaha. You are so good. I wish I didn't run out of money. So I could mess around with some more solar stuff. It would be fun I would actually like to be able to do some small-time installs for people. As some sort of a side business. I'm a concrete delivery specialist but all of a sudden the economy went bad and I don't have much work. And I just bought a brand new truck $200,000. And now there's no work it went from crazy busy. Me complaining about too much work. And not getting any time to do anything. To barely getting any work. In about a three-month period of time. I'm sure glad I bought the off-grid solar systems that I have before I went broke haha. man I really like your videos