Recent content by Tex

Ok, here we go again! Currently upgrading the BMS to a JK-B2A8S-20P (common Port), and the old question arises, shunt before or after the BMS?? I think I will go for before, for the simple reason that in the case of a LVDC from the BMS the shunt and BMV712 won't shut down and lose it's data. I...

Update! it works (sort of). The BMS I used on my 26650 LiFePO4 battery pack is supposed to have a "balance" function, i have no specs for it so don't know if it's charge balance, passive balance or whatever. But going by the size of the cables I figure it's probably useless anyways. Sooo, I...

Yes, so considering Off Grid Garage Andy's latest video today, I would like to ask, something along the same lines. I have an active balancer for a 4S 200 amp Hr. LiFePO4 battery pack, said balancer has the facility for an activation switch (as shown in the video), so as I don't want to buy a...

Check out Andy's latest video.

Sorry, missed your question, here ya go: https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/195416242970

Ok, not sure I understand most of that. However, I think the wash up of all that is you are saying I could put another 10 panels of the same type and size on the West side of the roof and plug that string into the other two inputs of the West side inverter? (as stated by timselectric) I take it...

Ok, this is the original data for the systems.

Ok I never realised I could just plug another array into the second plug on the inverter, thanks.

Hi All, Ok, my question is this, SMA recommend "Oversizing" the solar array in respect of the inverter, but strictly limit the input voltage. So I understand "clipping" and real world output versus factory specs etc. so all good there. I actually have two grid tied systems (without battery) with...

I just wish they would package the damn things properly!

Not sure, but maybey you can find the answer here: https://diysolarforum.com/threads/bms-common-port-vs-seperate-port.468/post-117963

So I found these 3800mAh 26650 cells very cheap, closest I can find to the ones I have. My pack has fours duds, so my question is can I put one of these slightly higher capacity cells at the end of each of my four strings? They are the same in all other respects

Ok, update. After 3 weeks of Covid back on my feet again (just), went to workshop and inspected those blown cells I was talking about above. So corrosion and some fluid now apparent around the caps of the four bad cells, binned em immediately, another life lesson learned.

Ok, lots of digging turned up the following information in relation to above. Firstly why were they still showing normal voltage? Apparently because unlike 18650's the 26650 LiFePO4 cap does not disconnect the current! They are actually a gas pressure cap which just releases internal pressure...

Yep, kinda what I thought, I'll toss the tree and remove one good one as a spare, then rebild the pack a bit smaller. Than BANG from one cell was enough to put the wind up me anyway. Thanks to all.