48V 25A Charger with 120VAC input needed, looking for recomendations

[jas67]

I am looking for a quality 48V 25A Charger with 120VAC input.

The EG4 Chargeverter is a great piece of equipment, but, way more than what I need.
I have a 10kw hybrid inverter that can handle high-current charging from my larger 240/120 VAC split-phase generator. I also want the option of using my Honda EU2000i quiet inverter generator to keep the batteries topped up during winter outages when the days are too short and sun to low for sufficient solar power.

The average power usage of our typical loads that we run during an outage are about 800-1000W. The EU2000i is more than powerful enough to keep up with these loads while still adding charge. I'm thinking we'd be able to run the EU2000i on about a 35-60% duty cycle during a prolonged outage.

In order to do that, I need a 25A charger (57.6V x 25A is about 1,440W).

I am also in need of such a charger for my Ryobi RM480e electric mower, which I converted to Lifepo4. The charger that came with the mower is intended for sealed-lead-acid batteries, and has a desulfate feature that will likely damage the Lifepo4 batteries or BMS. For the mower a lower amperage (18A is apparently common) OK, but, I need 25A for my backup needs.

 

[OzSolar]

There's not a great selection of 48V chargers. Have you dropped "48V charger" into the search bar?

Some folks have repurposed golf carts chargers, others do it manually with power supplies.

Since the Chargeverter is adjustable and can use 120V I suspect you're not going to find anything better for the money.

(I've been playing around with AI so I dropped the above into it and below is what it spit out, I didn't edit it)

You're absolutely right. Finding dedicated 48V chargers can be challenging, and the options might not always be the most cost-effective.

Here's why your observations are spot-on:

• Limited Supply: The market for 48V chargers specifically designed for off-grid or niche applications might not be as extensive as for more common voltages like 12V or 24V.
• Alternative Approaches:
  • Golf Cart Chargers: As you mentioned, repurposing golf cart chargers can be a viable solution, especially if they are compatible with your battery type and charging requirements.
  • Manual Charging with Power Supplies: This method offers flexibility but requires more careful monitoring and potentially some technical expertise.
• Chargeverter's Versatility: The Chargeverter's adjustability and ability to utilize 120V input make it a highly versatile option. Its flexibility in voltage and current settings can often be adapted to suit various 48V battery charging needs.

Considering the factors you mentioned, the Chargeverter might indeed be a strong contender, offering a balance of flexibility, adjustability, and potentially better value compared to specialized 48V chargers.

However, it's crucial to:

• Thoroughly research the Chargeverter's specifications: Ensure it's compatible with your specific 48V battery type (LiFePO4, lead-acid, etc.) and charging requirements (current limits, voltage ranges).
• Consult with experts: Seek advice from experienced off-grid system installers or battery specialists to determine the most suitable charging solution for your needs.

By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about the best charging option for your 48V system.

 

[MrSuperman]

You have to factor in energy required for the charger to output desired amps so the generator load might be higher.

I mostly see 48V/13A chargers around 90 bucks. The real current draw might be 17A to 20A.

So do factor in and see if your generator runs in eco mode

If that's possible then my mind is suggesting you can add two chargers to a MPPT and program its output. Very inefficient way and better off finding a constant amp output device and connect to MPPT.

There are some pros here and hope someone helps you out.

 

[Brucey]

I am looking for a quality 48V 25A Charger with 120VAC input.

The EG4 Chargeverter is a great piece of equipment, but, way more than what I need.
I have a 10kw hybrid inverter that can handle high-current charging from my larger 240/120 VAC split-phase generator. I also want the option of using my Honda EU2000i quiet inverter generator to keep the batteries topped up during winter outages when the days are too short and sun to low for sufficient solar power.

The average power usage of our typical loads that we run during an outage are about 800-1000W. The EU2000i is more than powerful enough to keep up with these loads while still adding charge. I'm thinking we'd be able to run the EU2000i on about a 35-60% duty cycle during a prolonged outage.

In order to do that, I need a 25A charger (57.6V x 25A is about 1,440W).

I am also in need of such a charger for my Ryobi RM480e electric mower, which I converted to Lifepo4. The charger that came with the mower is intended for sealed-lead-acid batteries, and has a desulfate feature that will likely damage the Lifepo4 batteries or BMS. For the mower a lower amperage (18A is apparently common) OK, but, I need 25A for my backup needs.

For the top end in quality and absolute silence with passive cooling the Meanwell HEP power supplies have been used successfully, two of these HEP-600-54s will get you 22.4A but at a price...

HEP-600-54

Shop for the Mean Well HEP-600-54 power supply from TRC. We offer free technical support, discounts and accurate stock info so you can buy with confidence. Order yours now to get fast shipping!

trcelectronics.com

 

[jas67]

Damn, you're right when you say "at a price!"

I've tried THREE of these. now. They work for a while, then not. I have one that is putting out the set voltage at no load, but, delivers no current. The other only is putting out a maximum of about 8 AMPs.
Amazon: 60V 25A 1500W DC Switching Power Supply Adapter PSU AC 110V / 220V-DC 60V

That said, I'm seeing a bunch info that general purpose power supplies are not a good idea for charging batteries and that a purpose-built charger is. a better way to go.

For the price of two of the above, I'm probably best off with a purpose-built charger, no?

 

[Brucey]

Damn, you're right when you say "at a price!"

I've tried THREE of these. now. They work for a while, then not. I have one that is putting out the set voltage at no load, but, delivers no current. The other only is putting out a maximum of about 8 AMPs.
Amazon: 60V 25A 1500W DC Switching Power Supply Adapter PSU AC 110V / 220V-DC 60V

That said, I'm seeing a bunch info that general purpose power supplies are not a good idea for charging batteries and that a purpose-built charger is. a better way to go.

For the price of two of the above, I'm probably best off with a purpose-built charger, no?

Yes generally these are used to float the bank at say 54V etc overnight till sun picks up in the morning etc, not to fully charge a battery. There are two adjustment dials to adjust voltage and current.
Some also use 48V rectifiers from telecoms equipment etc which can be found quite cheap on ebay etc, some diy work involved there.

 

[jas67]

The Chargeverter's adjustability and ability to utilize 120V input make it a highly versatile option.

I didn't realize it could be run from 120V input. I had assumed with 5000W capability that it was 240V only.

Still, for that price, I may just stick with running my bigger generator only.

 

[jas67]

You have to factor in energy required for the charger to output desired amps so the generator load might be higher.

I mostly see 48V/13A chargers around 90 bucks. The real current draw might be 17A to 20A.

So do factor in and see if your generator runs in eco mode

If that's possible then my mind is suggesting you can add two chargers to a MPPT and program its output. Very inefficient way and better off finding a constant amp output device and connect to MPPT.

There are some pros here and hope someone helps you out.

The EU2000i generator is good for 1600W continuous, or . The power draw of the 25A power supplies that I was trying was about 13A, which is about 1600W. At least with this power supply the generator was definitely up to task.

A lot of those golf-cart chargers are made for lead-acid batteries. The one that came with my mower is 13A and looks identical to the 13A ones I've seen online.