Tag Archives: soneil

Getting the Most out of your Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) Batteries – Charging Instructions

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The Charging Parameters for Lead Crystal/SiO2/Silicon Dioxide Batteries are a bit different than regular lead acid batteries. To Optimize your charge efficiency, if you can, it is better to manually set the charging references.

The State of Charge chart is for zero or minimal load on the batteries, if there is a load on the batteries, then the voltages would be lower.

State of Charge Parameter for EFSN SiO2 Batteries

State of Charge Parameter for EFSL SiO2 Batteries

Bulk/Absorption Charging voltage range is 14.4V – 14.7V, with 14.6V optimal.
Float Charging voltage 13.5V – 13.8V.

For SiO2 Batteries, the Maximum/Optimal Charging Current is 25% of Ah capacity. This can be expressed as a 0.25C, C/4, or 4-hour Charge Rate.
Charging at lower current is fine, but these batteries actually charge more efficiently at the maximum rate. This also minimizes run time for a generator, and reduces fuel use, and reduces RV and boat docking time for shore power AC charging.

When the battery is fully charged, there is often an initial “surface charge” voltage normally starting at around 13.5V with no load, and will stabilize at around 13.05V after 4-6hrs. Or you can run a small load on the battery for a brief period to dissipate the surface charge for a more accurate voltmeter reading. This is common with most lead-acid batteries as well.

This should help you fine-tune your charging and monitoring systems to get the most out of your silicon dioxide/SiO2 battery.

Please feel free to contact us with any questions!

Silicon Dioxide Battery Excellent Performance in Extreme Cold Conditions!

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Many places in North America are experiencing cold snaps this time of year. Extreme temperatures can decrease performance or cause damage and failure to most batteries.

If you are using batteries for off-grid, RV or backup power, or are planning to start, it is important to know what batteries can withstand extreme temperatures. Azimuth Solar’s Silicon Dioxide (Lead Crystal) batteries provide outstanding performance in extreme hot and cold weather conditions, faster charging and over 10 year lifespans, at lower lifetime costs.

Silicon Dioxide batteries (aka SiO2, Lead Crystal, or just Crystal batteries) are built to last in rough conditions. These batteries can be discharged deeper, cycled more often (even in extreme temperatures), charge faster and have longer lifespans. They recover to full-rated capacity. They do not require maintenance, special ventilation or cooling, and can be stored up to 2 years without recharge.

Extreme Cold Performance

Lead Acid batteries will freeze at -25C/-13F at 50% charge. The more you power you take from the battery, the easier it is to freeze and damage. Once a battery has frozen, you cannot use it until it is slowly defrosted and checked. This usually kills the battery. Lead Acid batteries can have lower freezing temperature ratings, but that is only helpful if you don’t plan on using them. The freezing point of Lead Acid batteries rises as their charge level drops. If you need a battery during an ice storm or winter blackout, you may not be able to use your Lead Acid batteries when you need them the most.Continue reading→