Do you need a battery isolator when using DC-DC charger?

22 Mar.,2024

 

Opusdei said:

I have a second thought about the role of DC>DC charger. I consider LiFePO4 battery can replace any type of 12V batteries and that's what you are going to do with your project. Why bother to replace the isolator then? Keep in mind that I'm not a mechanic or electrical expert about alternator though.

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The isolator is there so that running the house loads in the RV can't drain the starter batteries stranding you in the middle of nowhere. What the isolate will not do is protect your LiFePo4 house battery from being overcharged by the alternator. Nor will it prevent your house battery from cooking the alternator if the house batteries are at too low of a SOC when you try to charge them from the alternator.

A DC-DC charger (like an Victron Orion TR) will provide both charge management for your new lithium batteries and will also protect against draining the starter battery with house loads. The Orion will not however change your starter battery from the house battery.

Far as I can see the DC-DC converter plus a set of jumper cables (in the event you need to jump start the engine from the house battery) will do everything you need. I would replace the isolator with the DC-DC converter since otherwise you will get unnecessary power drop in the isolator.

An alternative if you will have solar power is to use a Renogy DDC50. The provides both alternator and solar charging of the house battery and will also divert solar power to charge the starter battery if needed. The downside to the DDC50 is it is 12V only (no 24V house battery), is not really configurable and has very a low solar panel input voltage limit (25V).

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There is an alternative to the Renogy with a higher solar input voltage limit, but the name escapes me. Starts with a K.

The isolator is there so that running the house loads in the RV can't drain the starter batteries stranding you in the middle of nowhere. What the isolate will not do is protect your LiFePo4 house battery from being overcharged by the alternator. Nor will it prevent your house battery from cooking the alternator if the house batteries are at too low of a SOC when you try to charge them from the alternator.A DC-DC charger (like an Victron Orion TR) will provide both charge management for your new lithium batteries and will also protect against draining the starter battery with house loads. The Orion will not however change your starter battery from the house battery.Far as I can see the DC-DC converter plus a set of jumper cables (in the event you need to jump start the engine from the house battery) will do everything you need. I would replace the isolator with the DC-DC converter since otherwise you will get unnecessary power drop in the isolator.An alternative if you will have solar power is to use a Renogy DDC50. The provides both alternator and solar charging of the house battery and will also divert solar power to charge the starter battery if needed. The downside to the DDC50 is it is 12V only (no 24V house battery), is not really configurable and has very a low solar panel input voltage limit (25V).There is an alternative to the Renogy with a higher solar input voltage limit, but the name escapes me. Starts with a K.

  This article explores the advantages and disadvantages of using a DC-DC charger or an isolator in different scenarios or practical situations. We analyze their working principles, application ranges, and performance in different situations to help readers make informed choices.

 DC - DC charger and isolator that better

  In vehicle electrical systems, chargers and isolators are common devices used for battery charging and electrical system protection. However, the choice of the appropriate device may vary depending on different application scenarios. This article compares DC-DC chargers and isolators to help readers understand their pros and cons and make wise choices in practical situations.

 Working Principles

  A DC-DC charger is a device that converts electrical energy from one power source to another. It achieves charging functionality by converting the input voltage to an output voltage suitable for battery charging. Chargers typically have intelligent control capabilities to monitor battery status and adjust charging current and voltage as needed.

  An isolator is a device used to isolate electrical systems, preventing current backflow and electrical interference. Isolators separate the input and output circuits using electromagnetic windings, preventing current flow between the two circuits. This isolation protects the battery from electrical faults or short circuits.

 DC - DC charger and isolator Application Range

  When choosing between a DC-DC charger and an isolator, the following factors need to be considered:

  1. Vehicle Type

  For most regular passenger cars and commercial vehicles, a DC-DC charger is usually a better choice. They can provide higher charging efficiency and more precise charging control to meet the battery's needs.

  2. Special Vehicles

  For some special vehicles such as trucks, boats, or RVs, isolators may be more suitable. These vehicles often require managing multiple battery systems simultaneously and need higher electrical isolation performance to protect the batteries and electrical equipment.

  3. Additional Features

  DC-DC chargers typically offer more features such as battery status monitoring and charging curve adjustments. If you require these additional features, choosing a DC-DC charger may be more appropriate.

 Performance

  In terms of performance, DC-DC chargers usually have higher charging efficiency and more precise charging control. They can adjust charging current and voltage according to the battery's needs, maximizing battery life. On the other hand, isolators provide higher electrical isolation performance, preventing current backflow and electrical interference.

  When choosing between a DC-DC charger and an isolator, consider the vehicle type, special requirements, and additional features. For most regular passenger cars and commercial vehicles, a DC-DC charger is usually the better choice due to higher charging efficiency and more precise charging control. However, for some special vehicles such as trucks, boats, or RVs, isolators may be more suitable due to their higher electrical isolation performance. The final choice should be based on actual needs and budget considerations.

Do you need a battery isolator when using DC-DC charger?

Is a DC-DC Charger Better Than an Isolator?

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