I purchased 2 of these batteries for my RV. I did some preliminary testing and I was very pleased on the way it is built. The battery box is all metal, not plastic. The built in BMS (Battery Management System) is very large and will handle quite a bit of current. If you don't know what a BMS is - it is a device that balances the voltage of each cell. It also has logic that will prevent overcharging, over draining, and temperature control. The temperature controls will automatically protect the battery from running too hot or too cold (see the spec sheet for more info).
I sent a message to Min at SOC about how I could register these batteries for the 7 year warranty and also asked a few questions. SOC has great customer service and Min is very knowledgeable about setting up a solar power system.
After I did my homework, I would recommend that you use a quality MPPT controller and connect your solar panels in series. My MPPT controller will convert up to 150 volts from series connected panels down to 12 or 24 volts (depending on how you configure your batteries) without much power loss (99.5% conversion efficiency). In my case, I am using 2 batteries in parallel for a 12 volt system. My 4 solar panels are connected in series with a maximum output of about 80 volts. Keeping your panels in series will help keep down the cost of the wire from the panels to the MPPT controller. I am using standard 10 AWG cables from the panels to the MPPT controller.
Note: My MPPT controller is "EPEVER MPPT Solar Charge Controller 40A 150V". This will allow at least 5 solar PV panels in series.
I am not done testing and tweaking my system yet. But I will update my review as the next few months go by.
One more thing about SOC; when you buy your battery from Amazon or directly from SOC - you can get a TR-16 Battery Capacity Tester for a very big discount. These testers sell for around $45 normally, but you can get one with a purchase for almost half the price. The tester itself measures input charging current, battery voltage, discharge current, and many more functions. It is a great tool!
| Brand | SOK Battery |
|---|---|
| Size | SK12V100 |
| Number Of Cells | 4 |
| Manufacturer | SOK Battery |
| Model | lifepo4 |
| Item Weight | 28 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 11.42 x 7.87 x 7.87 inches |
| Item model number | SK12V100 |
| Manufacturer Part Number | Sk |
| Amperage | 100 Amps |
