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36V GATOR MAX – LiFePO4 – 120Ah – 5kWh
36V GATOR MAX LiFePO4 120Ah batteries are robust energy storage solutions delivering 5kWh capacity, designed for medium-power EVs like golf carts and utility vehicles. Using lithium iron phosphate chemistry, they offer 3000+ cycles at 80% depth of discharge with stable thermal performance. Charging terminates at 43.8V (3.65V/cell), while built-in BMS prevents overvoltage and cell imbalance. Ideal for applications requiring 5–7 hours runtime at 750W loads.
Maximizing the Lifespan of Golf Cart Batteries
What distinguishes 36V LiFePO4 systems from lead-acid alternatives?
36V LiFePO4 batteries provide 50% weight reduction and 3x lifespan versus lead-acid counterparts. Their flat discharge curve maintains 36V output until 90% capacity depletion, unlike lead-acid’s voltage sag. Pro Tip: Use LiFePO4’s 100% usable capacity feature to downsize battery banks by 30% without runtime loss.
Where lead-acid struggles with 500 cycles at 50% DoD, LiFePO4 handles 3000+ cycles at 80% DoD. The GATOR MAX’s 120Ah configuration delivers 4.32kW continuous power – enough to climb 15% gradients in 800kg vehicles. Practically speaking, you could replace three 100Ah lead-acid batteries (324kg total) with one 120Ah LiFePO4 unit (28kg). Warning: Always verify charger compatibility – LiFePO4 requires constant-current/constant-voltage charging up to 43.8V, whereas lead-acid uses bulk/float stages.
How does cell configuration affect 36V performance?
Twelve 3.2V LiFePO4 cells connect in series to create 38.4V nominal (36V operating). Parallel groups boost capacity – the 120Ah GATOR MAX uses 4P12S architecture with 480 cells. This design balances energy density (150Wh/kg) with 200A peak discharge capability.
| Configuration | Cycle Life | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 12S1P (36V 30Ah) | 2500 cycles | $600 |
| 12S4P (36V 120Ah) | 3500 cycles | $2200 |
What BMS features ensure safe operation?
The integrated BMS monitors cell voltages within ±10mV tolerance, disconnecting loads below 2.5V/cell and stopping charging above 3.65V/cell. Active balancing at 500mA minimizes capacity drift between cells during partial-state charging – critical for series-connected packs.
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Can this battery power solar systems?
Yes, when paired with MPPT solar controllers supporting LiFePO4 profiles. The 5kWh capacity stores 6-8 hours of 800W solar input. Pro Tip: Set absorption voltage to 43.2V and float to 41.4V for solar applications to prevent BMS tripping during cloudy days.
How does temperature impact performance?
Operational range spans -20°C to 60°C, but charging requires 0-45°C. Below freezing, internal heaters (optional) maintain electrolyte stability. At 40°C ambient, expect 15% capacity reduction – still outperforming lead-acid’s 50% loss under same conditions.
| Temperature | Discharge Capacity | Cycle Life |
|---|---|---|
| 25°C | 120Ah | 3500 cycles |
| 45°C | 102Ah | 2900 cycles |
What maintenance ensures maximum lifespan?
Monthly capacity calibration cycles (full discharge/charge) keep BMS SOC accuracy within 3%. Store at 50% SOC in dry environments – unlike lead-acid, LiFePO4 doesn’t sulfate during storage. Warning: Never expose to water – despite IP65 rating, prolonged moisture accelerates terminal corrosion.
Redway Battery Expert Insight
FAQs
Only if it has LiFePO4 voltage presets (43.8V max). Generic lead-acid chargers risk overcharging beyond 3.65V/cell, triggering BMS protection.
How many golf cart miles per charge?
Expect 35-45 miles with 500W load on flat terrain – 30% more than equivalent lead-acid due to stable voltage delivery.
Is series connection to 72V possible?
Yes, but only with identical batteries and external 72V BMS. Never exceed 4 series connections (144V max system voltage).
Understanding Golf Cart Battery Costs
