L-16 "cycling" requirements? [RE-wrenches]

[David Palumbo, Independent Power & Light]

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Kurt,

C/30 pv charge rates certainly can work, but with cloudy weather being
prevalent for long stretches in my area (Northern New England). I find the
higher charge rate helps cut generator run times significantly. Also Richard
Perez in his "Complete Battery Book" states "In deep cycle service, the
charge source should be able to provide at least a C/20 rate into the
battery. Batteries in float service can be charged at rates as low as C/50".

Dave

<<At least C/20 pv charge rate.

David,

I know someone else posted this number and I don't remember who, but I'd
just like to say that this seems a bit high to me.  My systems are often
closer to a C/30 for occupied off-grid residential (not cabin systems
which are even higher).

Kurt Nelson>>

<< What Ray says goes along with what Richard Perez wrote in "The Complete
Battery Book" in 1985. "In general, if we have the ability to fill the
batteries at will, then a depth of discharge of 80% is the most efficient
overall for deep cycle lead-acid batteries. This figure is derived from many
interrelated factors and much practical experience."

Since, in off-grid systems, we rely on pv to charge the batteries and back
it up with generator power (unless you are fortunate enough to have wind or
hydro also). We are obviously not always using 80% discharges. We should
strive for good designs that other wrenches have talked about here already.
At least C/20 pv charge rate.
7 to 10 days of autonomy in the battery bank.
Proper voltage and absorption settings on your charge controller, and
inverter/charger.
Homeowners trained to pay proper attention to their Tri Metric amp hour
meters.
Make sure batteries are fully charged at least once per week.
If all that is done (along with a good install and proper maintenance) then
the batteries will last a long time.
Dave >>

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