This review delves into the XZNY 280Ah lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery, exploring its performance, design, and cost-effectiveness as a potential solution for 48V systems. We'll examine its compact size and impressive space utilization compared to larger capacity batteries, detailing the results of rigorous capacity and high-current testing. The review also investigates the battery's robust safety features, including low-temperature charging protection and the performance of its integrated Battery Management System (BMS).The assessment includes a teardown analysis highlighting the quality of internal components and construction, focusing on the use of high-gauge conductors and the well-integrated BMS. Finally, we evaluate the ease of connecting multiple XZNY 280Ah batteries to create a 48V system, weighing the advantages of its modularity and affordability against the need for regular voltage monitoring for balanced operation. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview to determine if the XZNY 280Ah battery is a viable and practical choice for various applications.
Pros And Cons
- Compact size
- Affordable price (around $369 at the time of filming)
- High capacity (slightly over 3500 Wh)
- Good price per Wh (around 10 cents)
- BMS can handle at least 275 amps for 5 minutes without shutting off
- Low temperature charging protection works as advertised
- Cells are well-matched
- Over 10% capacity more than rated
- Requires manual balancing if batteries in series become unbalanced
- Individual batteries may become unbalanced over time requiring individual charging
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Compact Size Comparison
The XZNY 280Ah battery boasts a remarkably compact design. When compared to other lithium iron phosphate batteries, its smaller size is immediately apparent. This makes it ideal for space-constrained applications.
A standard 100Ah battery is noticeably larger, and even a 200Ah battery dwarfs the XZNY unit, despite having only about three times the capacity. The XZNY's efficiency in space utilization is a significant advantage.
By removing the battery casings, the internal design difference becomes evident. The larger batteries have significant wasted airspace, while the XZNY utilizes the space almost completely, making it incredibly efficient.
Performance and Capacity Testing
Each XZNY 280Ah battery underwent rigorous capacity testing. Discharged at a 2C rate (56 amps), they consistently exceeded their rated 280Ah capacity by approximately 10%.
The discharge time for each battery was around 5 hours and 12-13 minutes. Voltage remained remarkably stable throughout the discharge cycle, indicating high-quality cells and excellent performance.
A further test pushed the battery to its limits. The BMS handled a combined load of 275 amps for 5 minutes without shutting down, showcasing its robust design and impressive current handling capabilities.
Low Temperature Protection and Features
The battery's low-temperature charging protection was successfully tested by placing it in a refrigerator at below-freezing temperatures. Charging was completely disabled until the battery reached room temperature.
This feature is crucial for preventing damage during cold weather operation. The battery's ability to resume charging after warming up demonstrates the effective functionality of this safety mechanism.
The XZNY battery also demonstrated exceptional performance and robust protection mechanisms, enhancing safety and reliability
Wiring for 48V System
Connecting four XZNY 280Ah batteries in series to create a 48V system is straightforward. Each battery's positive terminal is connected to the next battery's negative terminal.
Appropriate fuses (150 amp terminal fuses are recommended) should be used on each positive connection for safety. The final positive and negative terminals provide the 48V output.
This configuration yields a substantial 14kWh capacity at a very cost-effective price compared to pre-built 48V battery packs.
Teardown and Internal Components
A teardown of two XZNY batteries revealed high-quality components. Large gauge conductors (1/0 gauge) ensured efficient current flow. Multiple thick wires were used for both positive and negative terminals.
The BMS (Battery Management System) featured a temperature sensor and displayed a clear warning label. It was well-secured with glue, although that made it somewhat difficult to remove for inspection.
The cells themselves were brand new, with visible QR codes, confirming the high quality of the components used within the battery pack. The cells were tightly packed, maximizing space utilization.
Conclusion and Recommendations
The XZNY 280Ah batteries offer a compelling balance of affordability, compactness, and performance. Their capacity exceeded expectations, and the BMS handled high currents effectively.
The simple series wiring for a 48V system is a major advantage. However, regular voltage checks are recommended to ensure balanced charging and discharge across the individual batteries.
While larger, integrated 48V batteries offer inherent balancing, the XZNY's modularity and lower cost make it an excellent option for those needing high capacity without the bulk or high price.