Lithium Battery-school
How to Top Balance Lifepo4
  1. Hook up the LiFePO4 cells in parallel – (that means connecting all the positives together and the same for the negatives.)
  2. Charge to 3.45V with a regulated DC power supply with overvoltage protection. This part takes a long time! And your power supply should be large enough to cater to your needs. Our exclusive 30amp Lab supply is voltage and current limited here.
    IMPORTANT – DO NOT CHANGE THE VOLTAGE AFTER CONNECTION TO THE CELLS
  3. Once it hits 3.45V, then adjust the target voltage to 3.65V, keep an eye on the cells during this stage, the voltage will rise very rapidly and it’s good not to rely solely on the overvoltage protection feature of the power supply. Check with a multimeter very regularly.
  4. Once you hit 3.65V, turn off the power and leave for an hour or more. Check to see if it’s still over 3.5V. If not, charge it up to 3.65V again and leave it for another hour. Repeat until it does.
  5. Once done, reassemble the pack into your desired battery Voltage eg. 12V or 24V, and discharge
  6. Storing at a high level of charge is not good for the LiFePO4 cells. If storing for a long time, discharge down to 30-50%. If possible, keep the battery below 90% SOC and above 10% SOC. It will increase the lifespan of the cells. And definitely help with cell bloat.

    Congratulations you have successfully manually top balanced.

An alternative (not ideal or recommended) way to top balance a battery pack with a BMS, such as the JBD BMS is to connect the battery cells in series, and slowly, incrementally increase the pack voltage inside the Bluetooth app. (occasionally this will not work if the cells are at different SOC, please be aware, it could take weeks to balance if that were the case, and therefore it’s not usually recommended unless you don’t have any access to an appropriate voltage limited Lab supply)

1. Wire up the Battery in series. Eg, connect the 4 cells (positive to negative) Which will create a battery of about 13.2V for a 4s LiFePo4 Battery.
2. Charge with a charger between 14v and 14.6v. Slower is better
3. Inside the JBD Bluetooth app (XiaoXiang), set the fully charged voltage to 3.45v, and a total pack voltage of 13.8v and charge it until the BMS stops. Inside the app turn off the charge balancing feature and leave until all the cells are balanced.
4. The following day or more inside the BMS Bluetooth app settings increase the pack voltage to 14.4v (3.6v per cell) or 14.6v (3.65v) and ensure the balance on charge is turned off. The battery will then go and top balance itself. Leave here until balanced

Blog Lithium Battery-school Manufacturers
Hithium 280ah 300ah and 320ah cell Lifepo4 Review

Wondering about Hithium Lifepo4 cells quality?

Hithium 280Ah cells are a type of lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery cells. They are known for their high energy density, long cycle life, and safety features123.

Information about the cell. The cell is identical to the current reference design of a prismatic Lifepo4 cell with the dimensions of 207mm x 173mm x 71mm. These are identical in every way to the cells made by CATL, EVE, CALB, GOTION, BYD, GREAT POWER, REPT, SUNWODA and the list goes on. All of these currently manufacturer this exact same cell, with the exact same dimensions. They all use the same ingredients, with very minute differences to the cathode and anode and electrolyte mixture.

202303301648005656
290AH
Hithium 280AH
  • Product certifications:
    IEC 62619, UL 1973, UL 9540A, UN 38.3
  • Company certifications:
    ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001
  • Environmental Compliance: ROHS, REACH

High safety

  • Hithium-developed prismatic LFP cell with high thermal stability
  • Passes crush and nail penetration test
  • Ultra wide operating temperature range


Overall this cell is modified to last longer. Although the truth is the cycle count can be manipulated such as 6000 cycles at 80% is the same as 9000 cycles at 70% and so on. So the claim of 10000 cycles is probably true. Especially considering they are made with the intention of Energy storage, so with a Hithium cell you know you are getting something that will last a very long time.

3.2V 280Ah LiFePO4 Battery Prismatic Cell With 10000cycles (evlithium.com)

Manufacturers
Who is Envision AESC?
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Origins and Ownership

Envision AESC (Automotive Energy Supply Corporation) is a global battery manufacturer focused on powering electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems.

  • Founded in 2007 in Japan as a joint venture between Nissan, NEC Corporation, and NEC Tokin.
  • In 2018, China’s Envision Group acquired a majority stake. Nissan retained a minority share.
  • Since then, the company has operated as Envision AESC, expanding into one of the world’s fastest-growing battery producers.

Products and Technology

Envision AESC designs lithium-ion battery cells and packs for both cars and stationary energy storage.

  • Chemistries: The company produces both NCM (nickel-cobalt-manganese) and LFP (lithium iron phosphate) cells, depending on the application.
  • EV Batteries: Its Gen5 platform (based on NCM 811 chemistry) targets higher energy densities, approaching ~300 Wh/kg in development.
  • Energy Storage: In 2025, Envision AESC announced 315 Ah and 530 Ah large-format cells, designed for long cycle life (~12,000 cycles) and high efficiency (>95%). Mass production is targeted for 2025.
  • Safety: The company highlights passing over 200 global safety tests, including a CSA-supervised 49-hour fire safety trial. It also claims a record of “zero major safety incidents” in its ESS products.

AESC: 530Ah Battery Cell

Envision AESC has unveiled a 530Ah energy storage cell delivering over 1.6kWh per unit. With 12,000-cycle longevity and 95% energy efficiency, it’s fully compatible with mainstream ESS solutions. Mass production and deliveries are set to begin in 2025.


Global Footprint and Capacity

Envision AESC is aggressively scaling with gigafactories worldwide:

  • Japan: Original facilities supplying early Nissan Leaf batteries.
  • UK (Sunderland): Expanding capacity to support Nissan’s EV hub.
  • France (Douai): A ~9 GWh plant near Renault’s ElectriCity, backed by EU funding.
  • Spain (Navalmoral de la Mata): €1.1 billion LFP factory, with production targeted for 2026.
  • China (Cangzhou, Hebei): “Zero-Carbon Intelligent Industrial Park,” with 10 GWh in production and another 10 GWh under construction.
  • USA: Plants announced in Tennessee and South Carolina; however, the Florence, SC site was paused in June 2025 due to policy and tariff uncertainty.

Past company roadmaps projected hundreds of GWh of global capacity by 2030, but actual targets depend on market conditions and government policy.


Partnerships and Customers

Envision AESC supplies some of the world’s biggest automakers and energy companies:

  • Nissan: Longstanding partner for Leaf and future EV platforms.
  • Renault: Supply through the Douai factory in France.
  • BMW: Planned supply for Spartanburg, USA production.
  • Energy storage integrators: Recent announcements of over 40 GWh of ESS cell supply contracts in China.

Challenges and Risks

Despite its growth, Envision AESC faces several challenges:

  • Policy Risks: Trade disputes and changing subsidy rules (especially in the U.S.) can stall investments.
  • Intense Competition: Rivals such as CATL, BYD, and LG Energy Solution currently dominate global market share.
  • Technology Race: Sodium-ion and solid-state batteries are emerging as future competitors.

Future Outlook

Looking forward, Envision AESC is focused on:

  • Expanding global capacity to the hundreds of GWh scale by 2030.
  • Delivering EV batteries with longer ranges (targets >1,000 km per charge).
  • Scaling grid-scale storage cells for renewable energy and Virtual Power Plant (VPP) projects.
  • Achieving zero-carbon manufacturing across multiple new gigafactories.

Key Takeaways

  • Envision AESC is a Chinese-owned, globally active battery maker with Japanese roots.
  • It is not affiliated with Cornex (a separate Chinese company).
  • The company is rapidly scaling with gigafactories across Europe, Asia, and North America.
  • While facing risks from policy and competition, Envision AESC is positioning itself as a key global player in the EV and ESS battery market.

Official Website – https://www.aesc-group.com/

Lithium Battery-school
Are second life Lithium Batteries safe?

Are you considering repurposing battery cells and building your own Powerwall or similar Energy storage system?

We are going to take a look at what you must understand before starting a project of this type.

The Chemistry

NMC or NCA

Both of these chemistries are considered dangerous, and they should be avoided, especially in any second life application. And even more importantly in any residential application. There is a real risk of a short circuit, leading to thermal runaway. Both of these chemistries will be extremely difficult to extinguish. And may explode, and burn anything and everything around it down to ashes, Firefighters will not try to extinguish a Lithium Battery fire, as they know they have no option but to wait for the

The capacity loss of LiBs is generally considered to be linear, with end of life typically around 75% to 80% state of health (SoH) and the final end-of-life stage around 50% to 60% SoH. However, at some point a severe and potentially dangerous deterioration can occur and lead to an increased ageing rate. The time at which this occurs, referred to as the “knee,” is difficult to predict. It can occur at a higher SoH than expected, thereby increasing the risk of thermal runaway, internal short circuits, and joule heating, according to the report.

Lithium Iron Phosphate

Although it is possible for LFP to enter thermal runaway, it is very unlikely, and usually only happens when external heat is present, it can also happen when the cell is at 100% SOC and is supplied with a very high current, such as

What is Thermal Runaway?

Lithium Battery-school
Who is EVE Energy?

EVE Energy is a technology-driven company focused on the development of lithium batteries. Their products are widely used in the IoT, EV and ESS. Eve Energy makes prismatic, pouch and cylindrical battery cells. Along with a range of other batteries, including Lithium metal non rechargeable batteries.

Company Website – www.evebattery.com
EVE Energy Co., Ltd. (stock code: 300014)

Household ESS, Utility ESS, and Telecom ESS with products covering cells, modules, battery systems, battery management systems, and other comprehensive solutions

Lithium Battery-school
How does charging differ between LiFePO4 batteries and lead-acid batteries?

How does the charging process differ between LiFePO4 batteries and lead-acid batteries?

The charging process for LiFePO4 batteries and lead-acid batteries is different in several key ways.

LiFePO4 batteries are typically charged using a constant voltage charging method, where the voltage is held at a constant level until the current drops to a certain level. This helps to prevent overcharging and extend the life of the battery.

In contrast, lead-acid batteries are often charged using a constant current charging method, where the current is held at a constant level until the voltage reaches a certain level. This method is less precise and can result in overcharging and shorter battery life.

Additionally, LiFePO4 batteries have a higher charging voltage and require a special charging profile to avoid damaging the cells. Lead-acid batteries have a lower charging voltage and can be charged using a standard charging profile.

It’s also worth noting that LiFePO4 batteries are more tolerant to overcharging compared to lead-acid batteries, and they have a lower risk of sulfation, which is a common problem with lead-acid batteries.

What is the ideal voltage to charge lifepo4?

The ideal voltage to charge a LiFePO4 battery varies depending on the specific battery and the manufacturer’s specifications, but a typical voltage range is between 3.5V to 3.65V per cell. For a 12V LiFePO4 battery, the charging voltage should be between 14v and 14.4v

It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended charging voltage and to use a charger specifically designed for LiFePO4 batteries, as charging a LiFePO4 battery with the wrong voltage or using an inappropriate charger can result in reduced performance and shorter battery life.

LiFePO4 batteries require a multi-stage charging process that includes a constant voltage charge and a topping charge. The constant voltage charge is applied until the current drops to a certain level, at which point a float charge is applied to bring the voltage to the maximum level. The multi-stage charging process helps to prevent overcharging and extend the life of the battery. The float charge is a stage in the charging process for LiFePO4 batteries that occurs after the main constant voltage charge stage. During the float charge, the voltage is held at a slightly lower level than the maximum voltage to prevent overcharging and to ensure that the battery stays fully charged. The float charge serves several purposes. First, it helps to balance the voltage between the cells in the battery, ensuring that all cells are charged to the same level. Second, it helps to prevent overcharging, which can reduce the overall life of the battery. Finally, it helps to maintain the battery in a fully charged state, ready for use when needed.

The exact voltage and duration of the float charge will depend on the specific battery and the manufacturer’s specifications. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure that the battery is charged correctly and to maximize the performance and lifespan.

Lithium Battery-school
Who is CATL?

CATL is the leading Lithium and as of 2023 Sodium-ion battery manufacturer in China and the World.

CATL (Contemporary Amperex Technology Limited) is a Chinese battery manufacturer that produces lithium-ion and as of 2023 sodium-ion batteries for electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems. The company was founded in 2011 and has quickly become the leading EV battery manufacturer in the world. It supplies batteries to a number of major automakers, including Tesla, Volkswagen, BMW, and Toyota. CATL has also established a number of partnerships and collaborations with other companies in the EV and energy storage industries.

The company provides research and development, production, and sale of electric vehicle and energy storage battery systems. It also provides battery management systems, materials, battery cells, and battery recycling and reuse systems. These batteries are used in electric passenger vehicles, electric buses, electric trucks, and other special vehicles; and spare parts. The products of energy storage systems find their applications in renewable energy, communication base stations, grid frequency modulation, commercial and industrial buildings, and household energy storage. It also operates its business from Ningde, Fujian, China also has production in Germany, and overseas offices in Japan, France, and the USA regions.

LiFePo4 Video from CATL

Official CATL VIDEO

HOW China’s CATL makes its batteries

Lithium Battery-school
Pylontech First Gen 8 years old – Lifepo4 with bad cells – Repaired

Model – Extra 2000 – First generation Pylontech Lifepo4 Battery

Thanks to Nicolas for making this video of his First generation Lifepo4 Battery repair.

Here we see an old Pylontech battery with a capacity of only 10% original capacity, and over the course of 2 youtube videos, Nicolas is able to cut out a couple of bad pouch cells and restore the battery to approx 80% again.
Well done Nicholas


Nicholas Howell
Youtube subs – 1.61K subscribers

Part 1

Part 2

Lithium Battery-school Blog
What is the best way to prolong the lifespan of lifepo4 batteries?

There are several steps you can take to prolong the lifespan of Lifepo4 batteries, including the following:

  1. Store the batteries properly: Lifepo4 batteries should be stored in a cool, dry place at a temperature of around 15-20 degrees Celsius (60-68 degrees Fahrenheit). Avoid storing the batteries in extreme temperatures, as this can damage the cells and reduce their lifespan.
  2. Charge and discharge the batteries properly: Lifepo4 batteries should be charged and discharged within the recommended voltage range to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Overcharging or deep discharging the batteries can damage the cells and reduce their lifespan.
  3. Avoid exposing the batteries to high temperatures: Lifepo4 batteries are sensitive to high temperatures and can degrade quickly when exposed to them. Avoid exposing the batteries to high temperatures, such as by keeping them out of direct sunlight or away from heat sources.
  4. Use a battery management system (BMS): A BMS can help to optimize the charging and discharging of Lifepo4 batteries, protecting them from overcharging, deep discharging, and other factors that can damage the cells and reduce their lifespan.

By following these steps, you can help to prolong the life of your Lifepo4 batteries and ensure they perform at their best for as long as possible.

Bloating

Lifepo4 batteries, like all lithium-ion batteries, can expand or “bloat” when they are overcharged or charged too quickly. The specific voltage at which this can occur will depend on the specific chemistry and construction of the battery, as well as the charging conditions and other factors. In general, however, it is important to avoid overcharging Lifepo4 batteries and to charge them at a slow, steady rate to prevent bloating and other damage to the cells. Most Lifepo4 batteries are designed to be charged to a maximum voltage of around 3.65-3.7 volts per cell, and charging them above this level can cause bloating and other damage to the cells. It is important to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific charging voltage and charging rate for your Lifepo4 batteries.

REAL WORLD Cycle life

Good quality Lifepo4 cells should achieve about 4,000 or more deep discharge/charge cycles, averaging 1 cycle per day would allow for 11 years of use before a noticeable loss of capacity.

Shallow cycles are the best way to extend the lifespan, which means not going below about 30% of the remaining capacity. And not above 90% SOC. For use in residential and commercial purposes, We at LIFEPO4 Australia would recommend sizing and using your battery within these parameters.

10,000 shallow discharge/charge cycles would last around 13+ years.

LFP vs NMC lithium battery degradation-test-results
Its likely the LFP was shallow cycles at a low C rate such as below 0.2C
Lithium Battery-school
LIFEPO4 – Internal Resistance, capacity, and its Performance

Cell capacity is of limited use if a battery pack cannot deliver the stored energy effectively; a battery also needs low internal resistance. Measured in milliohms (mΩ), resistance is extremely important the higher the C rate of the battery; the lower the resistance, the less restriction the pack encounters. This is especially important in heavy loads such as power tools and electric powertrains. High resistance causes the battery to heat up and the voltage to drop under load, this is bad for the cell, and the battery, this is what causes degradation and aging, loss of performance, and ultimately EOL(end of life)

A grade (what we now call Automotive Grade) LiFePo4 has a very low internal resistance and the battery responds well to high-current bursts that last for a few seconds to a few minutes (see the individual cell specification sheet). Compared to LFP Lead acid and inherent sluggishness, however, lead acid does not perform well on a sustained high current discharge; the battery soon gets tired and needs rest to recover. LFP however, suffers much less, And A-grade LFP is sorted by the factory because it meets the manufacturer’s specifications. This tells the manufacturer a lot about the cell, its expected performance, and its lifespan.

LFP is highly efficient and can have different performance characteristics

If we look at the A-grade EVE LF280 cells we can see the performance and efficiency. Very high!!!
Discharge capacity/nominal
capacity×100%

A)0.33CA ≥100%
B)0.5CA ≥98%
C)1CA ≥97%

We need to compare Lead Acid again for learning purposes, Some sluggishness is apparent in all batteries at different degrees but it is especially pronounced with lead acid. This hints that power delivery is not based on internal resistance alone but also on the responsiveness of the chemistry, as well as temperature. In this respect, nickel- and lithium-based technologies are more responsive than lead acid.

The internal resistance of Lithium-based batteries also increases with use and aging but improvements have been made with electrolyte additives to keep the buildup of films on the electrodes under control. With all batteries, SoC affects the internal resistance. Lithium has higher resistance at full charge and also at end of discharge with a low resistance area in the middle. This is important to note, as when you are caring for the cells, you can very simply make the judgment that keeping your Lithium cells inside the 80% window is going to minimise degradation.

The 10%-80%-10% rule for Lithium is a good one to follow. This means try to keep you cells between 10% and 90% State of Charge.

A look at the Manufacturing Process

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