Here are some suggestions for configuring the battery management system (BMS) boards in electric vehicle fast charging stations to help maintain optimal battery temperature:
- Set temperature limits in the BMS to stop charging if the batteries get too hot or cold. Common cutoff limits are 0-45° The narrower the temperature range, the better for battery life.
- Configure the BMS to reduce the charging current if the battery reaches the higher end of the temperature range. This allows some charging but prevents overheating. A 10-20% reduction for every 5°C above the midpoint is common.
- Set the charge voltage limit to be slightly lower at extreme temperatures. This reduces heat generation inside the battery. For lithium-ion batteries, limit max voltage by 0.05V for each °C above or below 15°
- If the battery has active heating and cooling capabilities, configure temperatures thresholds to trigger this automatically during charging. Heating should activate below 10°C and cooling above 35°C for example.
- Set charging current limits according to the real-time battery temperature. Look up and configure the recommended C-rate limits from cell data sheets. Reduce current as temperature increases or decreases from 20-30°
- Build in a temperature stabilization delay time before allowing maximum current charging if the batteries are very hot or cold at the start. 15-30 minutes is typical.
Pay close attention to cell manufacturer guidance and don’t exceed their advised temperature ratings for charging or discharging battery packs. Let me know if you need any other specifics around optimal BMS configuration for your application!
