Nigel Calder & Jeff Cote Talk Marine Electrical - Part 11 of 11 - Drop In Lithium
6 August 2023 · 8 min · 3K views
What this video covers
Lithium-ion batteries marketed as "drop-in" replacements for lead-acid or AGM batteries pose significant risks because they lack the necessary integration with a boat's existing electrical system.0:36 Jeff Cote and Nigel Calder emphasize that lithium-ion technology functions as an energy storage system rather than a simple battery, requiring careful engineering of charging devices, conductor sizing, and overcurrent protection.1:07 Standard alternators, such as those on Yanmar engines, risk failure when subjected to the high, continuous charge acceptance rates of lithium banks, often requiring de-rating to 75 percent of rated output.4:20 Furthermore, lithium-ion batteries have strict temperature operating envelopes; charging below freezing can cause permanent damage.6:06 Parasitic loads during winter layups can discharge cells below their safety threshold, potentially rendering the battery unrecoverable without manufacturer intervention.7:01 Relying on manufacturer claims of easy installation without addressing these peripheral system requirements often leads to unexpected protection-mode shutdowns and total loss of house power while underway.2:27 Proper preparation and system-wide engineering are essential to avoid these common pitfalls.
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