Does anyone know what size in 'U' units I'll need for 4 off Pylontech 5000s? I think they'll fit in a 16U, but before I buy a rack too small, am I forgetting anything like cooling space between units, or space for shelf brackets? Thanks in advance.
asked
Rack Size For 4 Off Pylontech 5000 Packs?
@Jonny B Did you install a rack?
I'm installing and just have the batteries stacked on a piece of wood with small pieces between each battery for now. My solar guy says this is fine and there is no real benefit to a rack in my case, but I'm interested to hear what others think?
The Pylontech manual clearly states that you shouldn’t be stacking more than 3 units without additional support such as a rack with rear supports. These modules are 40Kg so a stack of 4 would result in 160Kg being applied to the base of the bottom module.
I was in a similar position but I love the rack it makes it look like a proper job not a diy thing and housing my network equipment in it to cleared space but for me it was the ascetic of the build as I spent loads of time with the wires I wanted it to look the part too, see a thread that I started here https://community.victronenergy.com/questions/204968/server-rack.html
Useful to note, 1U is 1.75 inches. So a US5000 measuring 6.34 inches high would need 3.62U. And as 'U's come in whole numbers, that's 4U. Whether you want to leave space in-between each battery depends on your environment and your installer's advice. But we find around 21U is popular to allow space for cables coming in at the base / top, and space in-between. (Other sizes are available.)
Definitely recommend a fixed shelf that can support 50kg, PLUS bolting in at the front to distribute load nicely. And use rack feet!
One manufacturer we use can also supply thermostatically controlled heaters / fans if you are installing in 'one of those' awkward places. Happy to help.
Dear Jonny-b, 4 Pylontech US5000 will fit into a 16U rack (see pdf), I believe that the space between units (16,8mm) is a little lower compared with the 4 units rack mount you see in the Pylontech manual, so it will be Ok depending of how do you use the batteries, environment temperature, etc.
According to the manual each unit must be placed on a shelf (for a min. wieght of 40kg). These kind of shelves need some support on the rear side, not only the front. It is not allowed to mount the Pylontech unit only with the front "ears" only, these are just for securing in position to the rack.
Also be aware of a proper air flow, a glass door looks nice but the airflow is blocked.
Yes. Interestingly the Pylontech cabinets simply have supporting rails at both of the sides, not a full shelf.
Has anyone tried this setup?
Is the airflow between US5000 batteries enough in a U16 rack?
Example with fan: https://ledkia.com/uk/buy-racks/77770-pylontech-u16-battery-rack-with-2-fans.html
@jonf3n Not that hot warm but not hot, mine are in a celetex box with a 60watt heat lamp and will be a toasty 27 to 30 degrees at 70amps charge for 4 or 5 hours
I’ve had three US5000 modules in a 16U Samson SRK16 rack for almost 5 months with no issues. I’ve spaced the batteries to leave space for a fourth module but currently have networking gear in the top slots. I’ve run the system at max charging of 70A from inverter, 120A from MPPTs and max discharge of just over 100A on several occasions and the batteries never seem to rise much above ambient temps.
My rack is open front and back, and has rear supports for the batteries. Let me know if you want any more info.
pylontech advises to keep space between them so i would advice to use a 20U rack
i have 3 pylontech 5000 in a 16u rack and they have never been hot, just warm
most important is the shelving, the rack mount on the front of the 5000s can not hold there own weight!!
Completely agree @duivert !
20U Rack
https://www.123racks.co.uk/shop/?s=cab-fe-20U&post_type=product
(If not available, can do 22U at the same price)
Heavy-duty wheels
https://www.123racks.co.uk/shop/product/heavy-duty-castors-for-comms-rack-cabinet-server-enclosure/
4-corner fixed shelf
https://www.123racks.co.uk/shop/product/fixed-shelf-for-600mm-deep-econetcab-and-valucab/
And don't forget the nuts and screws if not included with the rack!
