Frequently Asked Questions
General FAQ
Q: Who is EVolve Electrics?
A: EVolve Electrics specializes in lithium-ion battery systems, battery management solutions (BMS), electric motors, and other components for electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage.
Q: How can I contact EVolve Electrics support?
A: Contact support via email at sales@evolveelectrics.com or through our website’s contact page.
Orion Standard 02 BMS FAQ
Q: How many cells does the Orion Standard 02 BMS support?
A: It supports up to 180 cells in series or 800Vdc (whichever comes first).
Q: Can Orion Standard 02 balance cells actively or passively?
A: It uses passive cell balancing.
Q: What communication protocols does Orion Standard 02 offer?
A: CANbus, RS-232, and analog/digital I/O.
Q: Is firmware user-upgradable?
A: Yes, users can upgrade firmware via Orion’s BMS utility software.
Q: Does Orion Standard 02 BMS integrate thermal management?
A: Yes, it supports 10k thermal sensors and integrates with external cooling systems.
Q: Can I monitor Orion Standard 02 remotely?
A: Yes, via CANbus integration with external telematics or monitoring systems like the Orion Wifi module.
Q: What diagnostic features does Orion Standard 02 include?
A: Over-voltage, under-voltage, thermal runaway detection, and fault logging.
Q: Where can I download documentation?
A: Visit https://www.orionbms.com/downloads.
Orion Jr. 2 BMS FAQ
Q: What’s the maximum number of cells Orion Jr. 2 supports?
A: Up to 48 cells in series.
Q: Is Orion Jr. 2 suitable for solar storage systems?
A: Yes, it’s commonly used in solar storage due to compact size and efficiency.
Q: Does Orion Jr. 2 support Bluetooth communication?
A: No, it communicates via CANbus and analog signals.
Q: Can Orion Jr. 2 individually monitor each cell voltage?
A: Yes, each cell is individually monitored.
Q: What type of balancing does Orion Jr. 2 perform?
A: Passive balancing.
Q: Can I integrate Orion Jr. 2 with solar charge controllers?
A: Yes, through CANbus or analog connections.
Q: Is Orion Jr. 2 compatible with lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4)?
A: Yes, it is compatible with various lithium chemistries including LiFePO4.
Q: Where can I find Orion Jr. 2 troubleshooting guides?
A: On Orion’s application notes webpage: https://www.orionbms.com/application-notes.
Orion BXL & REM FAQ
Q: What's the purpose of Orion BXL modules?
A: They expand Orion BMS capabilities to manage larger cell counts (up to 1080 cells).
Q: How does the REM module differ from BXL?
A: REM is used for remote monitoring and managing distributed battery packs.
Q: Can Orion BXL modules communicate wirelessly?
A: No, communication occurs via wired CANbus.
Q: Are REM modules needed in every BXL configuration?
A: No, REM modules are specifically for remote, distributed sensing.
Q: Where can I find setup details for Orion BXL and REM modules?
A: Detailed guides are at https://www.orionbms.com/application-notes.
Elcon Chargers FAQ
Q: Do Elcon chargers support CANbus communication?
A: Yes, fully compatible with CANbus-enabled BMS systems.
Q: Are Elcon chargers adjustable in terms of voltage/current?
A: Yes, voltage and current settings are user-adjustable.
Q: Can Elcon chargers operate with different battery chemistries?
A: Compatible with lithium, lead-acid, and other battery chemistries.
Q: Do Elcon chargers have international certifications?
A: Yes, they comply with UL, CE, and other global standards.
Q: Where can I access Elcon charger manuals?
A: Manuals available at: https://www.evolve-electrics.com/resources/chargers.
Molicel Batteries FAQ
Q: Are Molicel batteries suitable for high-drain applications?
A: Yes, ideal for high-drain and high-performance applications.
Q: What chemistries do Molicel cells typically use?
A: Primarily NMC chemistry, known for high energy density and cycle life.
Q: Can Molicel cells be integrated into custom battery packs?
A: Yes, widely used in custom battery systems and EV packs.
Q: How do I confirm authentic Molicel cells?
A: Purchase from authorized distributors like EVolve Electrics, and verify authenticity via provided datasheets.
Q: Where are datasheets available?
A: Datasheets are at: https://www.evolve-electrics.com/resources/datasheets.
Lithium Block Gen1 & Gen2 FAQ
Q: What's the difference between Gen1 and Gen2 Lithium Blocks?
A: Gen2 offers improved thermal management and higher energy density.
Q: Can Lithium Blocks be expanded modularly?
A: Yes, they’re fully modular and expandable.
Q: Is external cooling required?
A: Passive cooling is typically sufficient, but active cooling options are available.
Q: Are Lithium Blocks compatible with Orion BMS?
A: Yes, fully integrated for easy monitoring and balancing.
Q: Where are Lithium Block specifications available?
A: Visit EVolve’s Lithium Block product page.
Monolith Battery System FAQ
Q: What applications suit the Monolith battery system?
A: Ideal for motorsport, aerospace, and industrial EV applications.
Q: Does Monolith include integrated BMS?
A: Yes, integrated Orion BMS ensures comprehensive monitoring.
Q: How does Monolith manage thermal conditions?
A: Includes integrated active liquid cooling.
Q: Can Monolith communicate with vehicle control systems?
A: Yes, via CANbus communication.
Q: Is Monolith available in different voltage/capacity configurations?
A: Yes, multiple standardized configurations available.
LG E78 2S12 Modules FAQ
Q: What's the nominal voltage of LG E78 modules?
A: Nominal voltage is 7.4V per module.
Q: Recommended cooling methods for LG E78?
A: Liquid cooling is strongly recommended.
Q: What BMS integrates easily with LG E78?
A: Compatible with Orion BMS systems.
Q: What is the pinout for the LG E78 2P12S Module I/O harness?
A: The 22-pin connector pinout is:
Q: What is the recommended torque specification for fastening the power terminals?
A: The recommended torque for the M6 bolt used on the power terminals is 9 Nm ±10%. Always ensure that the terminal surfaces are clean and free of foreign substances before assembly.
Q: How should the module be handled during transportation and installation?
A: The module must be handled using specific gripper interfaces located at pre-defined positions. It's essential to avoid transporting the battery by non-designated points to prevent damage or dropping.
Q: Is the module waterproof or dustproof?
A: No, the module itself is not waterproof or dustproof. Adequate protection must be provided at the pack level to prevent issues such as condensation or water ingress.
Q: What are the minimum spacing requirements between modules in a battery pack?
A: A minimum clearance of +10 mm (without planned changes) or +15 mm (with planned changes to EVO) between modules is necessary to accommodate swelling and prevent mechanical stress.
Q: What are the cooling requirements for the module?
A: The module is designed for indirect cooling through its bottom surface. The recommended cooling interface area is 500 mm × 215.4 mm. It is crucial to ensure the cooling surface is clean before assembly to maximize heat transfer efficiency.
Q: What are the insulation resistance and voltage inspection specifications?
A: Insulation resistance is specified as 600 MΩ (500 V for 60 seconds), and the dielectric voltage inspection specification is 2.5 kV DC.
Q: What is the recommended assembly force and allowed acceleration for module manipulation?
A: Allowed assembly force per interface is 3 kN (X, Y, Z directions), and the allowed acceleration is up to 3 g, with a maximum acceleration of 5 g.
Lithium Battery System Design & Integration FAQ
Q: Why is creepage and clearance important?
A: Ensures electrical safety and reliability at high voltages.
Q: What's the role of HVIL?
A: Protects against accidental high-voltage exposure.
Q: Benefits of wire bonding in battery systems?
A: High reliability, low resistance, and improved thermal performance.