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belter-cat avatar image
belter-cat asked

Parallel charging LifePo4 with Alternator and MPPT

Hi,

There seems to be some confusion and I hope to clarify....

We built a expedition vehicle and upgraded to LifePo4 batteries with built in BMS.

Can we just connect the Victron Smart MPPT and Smart DC-DC charger linked to the alternator in parallel to the batteries? If both are set up for LifePo4 will they "fight" each other or will they both charge and turn off once battery reaches charge?

Or if this works should we just use a second MPPT hooked up to the alternator and then link the 2 MPPT chargers with the Victron app?

Note, our alternator output is already switched by the truck so it is off when the truck is off.


Thanks!!!




MPPT Controllersbattery chargingMPPT SmartSolar
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2 Answers
kevgermany avatar image
kevgermany answered ·

Not quite clear w he at your setup is.

MPPT and Orion can be connected in parallel to the batteries you're charging. They must have the same settings.

Alternator must go through Orion to LFP batteries. Not direct.

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JohnC avatar image
JohnC answered ·

@Belter Cat

They shouldn't interact, but if they do, just reduce the target setpoint of one source marginally until it stops. The only reason for concern is if there's spiking beyond what the battery bms can handle.

Using another mppt is only an option if the source battery is much higher in V. Like 24V feeding 12V.

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