This review dives deep into the Dumfume LiFePO4 battery, a surprisingly high-performing 100Ah battery available for just $132. We put this budget-friendly option through rigorous testing, exceeding typical consumer use cases, to assess its real-world capacity, safety features, and overall build quality. Our initial capacity test revealed a remarkable 104.8Ah, exceeding its advertised capacity. But the true test lay in pushing its limits – and we did just that.From rigorous charging tests revealing a functional overcurrent protection system, to intense surge testing demonstrating robust safety mechanisms, we explored the Dumfume battery’s performance under pressure. We'll detail the internal construction, examining the BMS and its components, and analyze its impressive safety features, including thermal protection and short-circuit prevention. Ultimately, we determine if this incredibly affordable battery truly delivers on its promises and offers a compelling value proposition compared to more expensive competitors.
Pros And Cons
- 104.8 amp hours capacity at a relatively low price.
- Overcurrent protection worked during charging.
- Overcurrent protection worked during surge testing (500 amps).
- Good build quality, comparable to more expensive brands.
- Screw terminals on the BMS.
- Temperature sensor on the cells.
- Thick insulation pads between the cells.
- Holes for over-pressure relief valves.
- Conformal coating on the BMS.
- Temperature sensor functions correctly.
- Bus bars are slightly crooked.
- Over temperature protection may activate before overcurrent protection in some scenarios.
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Initial Testing and Charging
The Dumfume LiFePO4 battery, purchased for $132, promised a 100Ah capacity. Before disassembly, a capacity test using calibrated equipment revealed 104.8Ah, a surprisingly good result for the price point. The battery was initially discharged, requiring a charge before further testing could commence.
Charging began with two chargers, but surprisingly, the battery's overcurrent protection engaged, a feature rarely found in budget 12V batteries. This was a positive initial sign indicating quality control.
The charging process continued for over 40 minutes at 100 amps. Although slower than expected, this signaled a functional overcurrent protection system in the Battery Management System (BMS).
Surge Testing and Safety Features
Following the charge, surge testing was performed. Initially, a 500-amp surge test was conducted; the battery's overcurrent protection quickly and effectively cut the power. This showcased a crucial safety feature often missing in cheaper alternatives.
A subsequent test with nearly 200 amps was conducted for two and a half minutes, causing the battery's BMS to overheat significantly. It's unclear if this was overcurrent or over-temperature protection, highlighting the importance of external fuses.
Repeating the 200-amp test led to a quicker shutdown, likely due to the BMS overheating. The battery refused to restart, indicating a safety mechanism to prevent damage. This demonstrates the importance of prioritizing overcurrent protection over over-temperature protection in the BMS design for battery safety
Internal Construction and Build Quality
Disassembly revealed a surprisingly well-constructed internal design. Unlike many budget batteries, this one featured screw terminals on the BMS instead of solder joints, showing attention to detail.
The BMS included a temperature sensor positioned directly on the cells. Thick insulation pads separated the cells, further enhancing safety and performance. While the bus bars were slightly crooked, this was consistent across all bars, suggesting a possible manufacturing quirk rather than a major defect.
Other quality indicators included protective glued construction, conformal coating on the BMS, and clearly visible over-pressure relief valves. These features point towards a more robust and reliable battery than its price might suggest.
Temperature Sensor Testing and Final Verdict
Testing the temperature sensor confirmed its functionality. The BMS reacted appropriately to temperature changes, demonstrating a well-integrated safety mechanism. The battery performed comparably to more expensive brands like Watt Cycle or LeTime.
The Dumfume battery excelled in various protection measures, including low-voltage charging protection, dead-short protection, and overcurrent protection during charging. The only notable absence was overcurrent protection above 200 amps.
Considering its price point, build quality, and safety features, the Dumfume LiFePO4 battery is a highly competitive option. While external fuses are always recommended for added safety, this battery far exceeds expectations in its class.