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john-b avatar image
john-b asked

How do I increase equalisation time?

Hello Victron community,

This is my first post and my first off grid system which I am still getting used to.


I have a Multiplus 24/3000/50, CCGX and six Northstar Blue NSB210FT. Now I know there are issues using these AGM batteries which require equalisation for 16 hours every two weeks.

I have tried the first equalisation today by flicking the switch on the multi which worked and went into equalisation mode but it seems to switch back to float after about an hour.

Is there a setting to increase the time?

Also to get the Multi to start equalisation I use the MK3 dongle and enabled equalisation in the VE configure but it mentioned “tubular plate batteries”, not sure if my batteries are tubular plate of not?

firmware on my Multi is 1910142 so assume it has the old microprocessor and that I can’t initiate Equalisation via the mobile app?

Any help is appreciate.

Thanks

John

MultiPlus Quattro Inverter Chargerequalisation
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Warwick Bruce Chapman avatar image Warwick Bruce Chapman commented ·

Which switch on the multi do you flick for equalization?

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Warwick Bruce Chapman avatar image Warwick Bruce Chapman commented ·

Can you share a screenshot of the Ve Configure message you refer to about Tubular plate.

Your batteries are lead carbon.

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Warwick Bruce Chapman avatar image Warwick Bruce Chapman commented ·

How deeply discharged are these batteries getting in the course of their use?

“ If the batteries are getting a full recharge to 100% every day then a equlisation charge is not needed.”

From: https://community.victronenergy.com/questions/1104/setting-up-different-schedules-of-equalisation-wit.html

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Warwick Bruce Chapman avatar image Warwick Bruce Chapman commented ·

Let’s back up a bit.

What is the configuration?

Is there solar? If so, how many panels of what power and what regulators / MPPTs.

How many batteries and in what configuration? Series, series parallel?

What else is doing the charging - AC In?

What’s the application of the system?

Do you still have the equalization option ticked?

Do you have ESS enabled?

If so, what is the battery algorithm?

If it is “keep batteries charged” ( which it appears is not the case ), do you have DVCC enabled and with what config?

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Warwick Bruce Chapman avatar image Warwick Bruce Chapman commented ·

Hi John

If I can still help you with any advice on this please email me w@rwick.com

Warwick

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JohnC avatar image
JohnC answered ·

Hi John. This sheet changes everything. It's all in the nomenclature. What they call 'Boost' is what Victron call 'Absorb', and the levels quite modest anyway (14.1V for 12V +/- temp compensation).

What they call 'Equalize' is actually just a long Absorb at the same modest V's. And given these batts seem designed largely for ups service, probably unnecessary anyway if you're cycling them daily.

What Victron (& others) call Equalize, is a serious stir-up at (say) 15.5 - 16V. Your maker doesn't suggest that at all.

Take a step back and reconsider your aims here..



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Warwick Bruce Chapman avatar image Warwick Bruce Chapman commented ·

Please untick that box.

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john-b avatar image john-b Warwick Bruce Chapman commented ·

Will untick now, thanks Warwick.

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john-b avatar image john-b commented ·

Ok thanks for the advice John.

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