3. Introduction
3Lion is an innovative NDS battery and charging system, based on Lithium Ferro Phosphate
Technology (LiFePO4). Combined with the integrated BMS and 3Link system (BMS Manager), a
3Lion battery reliably delivers the exceptional performance that is available from a LiFePO4
battery.
Lithium technology provides significant advantages over traditional lead batteries (AGM, gel & wet
lead acid). For example, a 3Lion battery can withstand high charging currents which results in a
much faster charging speed. It does not suffer from the typical sulphation of lead batteries, it has a
very low self-discharge rate (less than 3% per month), and there's as much as a 60% weight
reduction over a comparable lead-acid battery. With a large number of cycles (2,500+ depending
on usage), it provides greater autonomy without the need for mains hook-up.
The 3Lion battery works in conjunction with the 3Link, which becomes the hub of the energy
system. The engine battery, 3Lion battery and al l electrical equipment, are connected to the
3Link. This allows the system to work efficiently and to achieve maximum charging - up to 75
Amps depending on the alternator - from the alternator when the engine is running. When the
engine is turned off, the 3Lion battery will deliver current for all on-board electrical equipment :
lights, heating, coffee machines, etc.
The 3Link unit communicates with the touch screen display and provides useful information about
the state of the battery, the charging system and how much energy is being used at any given
time.
The LiFePO4 technology used for the 3Lion, unlike other lithium batteries such as Li-Ion or LiPO,
is extremely safe and reliable.
3Lion batteries can be used almost anywhere that a lead-acid leisure battery is being used and, in
almost every case, a 3Lion battery will give significant advantages. However, the fast charging and
discharging abilities of the battery are dependent on the ability of the charging methods being
used.
Before installing any LiFePO4 battery, it's essential to check the output of the vehicle's alternator,
230V mains charger and, if used, the solar regulator, generator and fuel cell.
If any of these charge in a way that is not compatible with a LiFePO4 battery, performance will be
impaired and the battery could be damaged. In short, all charging methods must ensure that the
battery is not charged at more than 14.5V, does not have a “maintenance” mode where the
voltage is in excess of 13.8V or any “de-sulphation” mode.
If a LiFePO4 charging option is available (on most Votronic products, Sterling battery chargers and
NDS products for example) always select it. If a LiFePO4 charging option is not available,
selecting gel or AGM will also charge the battery without risk of damage but not to 100% state of
charge.
When installing 2 3Lion batteries in parallel, use only one 3Link and place the 2 3Lion batteries in
parallel with cables of a cross-action of at least 35mm2 and place them as close to each other as
possible. Proceed with the installation as shown in the diagram below.
