This review dives deep into the Redodo 12.8V 140Ah LiFePO4 battery, a sizable Group 31 unit boasting Bluetooth connectivity for real-time monitoring via a dedicated app. We explore its performance through rigorous capacity and load testing, examining its discharge curve, BMS response to overloads, and overall efficiency. The review also details a challenging teardown, revealing the battery's internal construction, including its cell arrangement, BMS specifications, and the robust safety features employed.Beyond the performance metrics, we analyze the practicality of the Bluetooth app, assessing its user-friendliness and the depth of the data provided. Finally, we evaluate the overall reliability and robustness of the Redodo battery, weighing its strengths against potential drawbacks, such as the difficulty in repairing the unit due to its sealed construction. This comprehensive review aims to provide a balanced perspective for potential buyers considering this high-capacity LiFePO4 battery.
Pros And Cons
- Bluetooth connectivity with app for monitoring battery state, charge time, and current output.
- Achieved 145Ah capacity during testing, exceeding the rated 140Ah.
- Maintains higher voltage for longer during discharge compared to 100Ah batteries.
- Rated at 150A continuous discharge.
- Stable performance under 130A load test for over 2 minutes.
- BMS shuts down at over 150A to protect from overload and restarts quickly.
- Low temperature charging protection.
- Overheat protection.
- Well-built with high-quality BMS and appropriately sized wiring (four size 10 wires).
- App provides basic information only.
- Extremely difficult to disassemble due to excessive silicone sealant.
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Specifications and Bluetooth App
The Redodo 12.8V 140Ah LiFePO4 battery boasts impressive dimensions of 13" x 9" x 7", weighing just over 28 lbs (12.8 kg). This Group 31 battery is equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for monitoring via a dedicated app. The app requires email registration and offers real-time data on battery status, charge level, and remaining time.
The Bluetooth app displays the state of charge, remaining time, and current output. While it provides basic information like voltage and capacity, more detailed data analysis is lacking. The app's simplicity might be a drawback for users seeking in-depth performance metrics.
Capacity Test Results
A capacity test was conducted by discharging the battery at a constant 20 amps (10 amps per tester). The test took approximately 7 hours to complete, yielding a total capacity of 140Ah (70Ah per tester). This result aligns closely with the battery's rated capacity. The discharge curve, however, differed slightly from typical 100Ah batteries; it maintained a higher voltage for a more extended period.
Even after 7 hours, the battery continued to discharge. The BMS (Battery Management System) eventually shut down the battery at a voltage of 0.147V after approximately 7 hours and 15 minutes. The final capacity readings were 72.6Ah and 72.8Ah on each tester, totaling 145Ah - exceeding the rated capacity.
Load Test and BMS Performance
A load test was performed using a 2000W inverter and a 500W heater, drawing approximately 130 amps. The battery performed stably at this load, maintaining a voltage of 12.3V. Pushing the battery beyond its rated 150A continuous discharge limit triggered the BMS to shut down within 10 seconds.
The BMS's protective shutdown function worked efficiently. After about 10 seconds, the battery voltage dropped to 1.1V. However, the BMS quickly recovered after the overload was removed, restarting the battery within approximately 10 seconds, indicating a robust safety mechanism.
Teardown and Internal Components
The teardown process proved challenging due to the extensive use of silicone sealant. After considerable effort, access to the internal components was gained. The battery is constructed with four large prismatic cells separated by thick fiberglass boards.
The BMS (Battery Management System), manufactured by Redodo, features a 150A charge and discharge rating, as well as an aluminum heat sink. The cells are laser-welded to aluminum bus bars, reinforcing the battery's robust construction. Various safety features such as overheat and low-temperature protection were observed.
Safety Features and Conclusion
The battery incorporates several safety features including overheat and low-temperature charging protection. Testing confirmed the effectiveness of both systems. The overheat protection triggered a shutdown when a 12V light bulb caused excessive current draw. The low-temperature protection was tested with a cooling agent, successfully halting the charging process when the temperature was low enough.
Overall, the Redodo 12.8V 140Ah LiFePO4 battery impressed with its performance and safety features. The robust construction, high capacity, and responsive BMS make it a reliable option. While the complex teardown highlights its durable design, the difficulty in accessing the internal components might pose challenges for repairs.
