A battery management system (BMS) protects your lithium-ion battery and ensures safe operation.
Lithium-ion marine batteries have many advantages over their lead-acid counterparts. They are lighter, more powerful, charge faster, and have a longer lifespan. The chemistry of these batteries is an essential part of their incredible performance. However, they are susceptible to harmful conditions that can damage the battery pack. A battery management system (BMS) protects your lithium-ion battery to optimize performance, maximize lifespan, and ensure safe operation over various conditions. Let’s go over everything you need to know about battery management systems.
What Does a Battery Management System Do?
The BMS monitors and manages the battery’s performance. Most importantly, it ensures the battery operates within its safety parameters. The battery management system is vital to the battery’s safe operation, overall performance, and longevity. Moreover, it protects your battery, your boat, and your passengers.
The BMS protects the battery cells from damage caused by overcharging or over-discharging. Additionally, the BMS calculates the remaining charge and monitors the battery’s temperature, health, and safety by checking for loose connections and internal shorts. The BMS also balances the charge across the cells to keep each one functioning at maximum capacity. It continually tracks the energy entering and exiting the battery pack and monitors cell voltages. The battery management system uses this data to know when the battery is drained and shut the battery down.
Prevents Short Circuits and Overcurrents
Each marine battery has a maximum specified current for safe operation. The battery can overheat if a load is applied that draws a higher current. While it’s important to use the battery to keep the current below the maximum specification, the BMS protects against overcurrent conditions and disconnects the battery from power. A battery short circuit is a severe form of an overcurrent condition. It commonly happens when the electrodes accidentally come in contact with a piece of metal. The BMS quickly detects a short circuit condition before the sudden current draw overheats the battery and causes catastrophic damage.
The Importance of a BMS
Battery management systems are critical in protecting the battery’s health and longevity but are even more important from a safety perspective. The liquid electrolyte in lithium-ion batteries is extremely flammable. These batteries must operate optimally and within safety limits at all times to prevent a fire. With the use of a reliable BMS, you can reduce the risk of damage caused by batteries and protect your investment.
Marine Electric Systems, LLC is a Leader In the Maritime Industry
We here at Marine Electric Systems have over 30 years of industry experience. You can trust our team for reliable service and expert craftsmanship in the Maryland, Baltimore, Annapolis, and Baltimore city areas! We’re highly certified and adhere to all ABYC and NMEA regulations. We specialize in top-notch electrical solutions for recreational, commercial, and government boating clients. Anything from electrical refits, to navigation systems, or boating maintenance. To stay up to date on our services, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram, and YouTube. You can also contact us at 410-263-0807.