BuckBoost 100A DC-DC control with DVCC

Q&A and troubleshooting
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1

Sometimes in marine applications we use Victron Quattro/Multiplus, MPPT solar, OrionXS1400 with CeroGX for DVCC control of charging parameters with Voltgo batteries. The VoltGo batteries are V.E.Can connected to the CerboGX to provide parameters to allow DVCC control. This sytem works well apart from the OrionXS1400 don’t last long as they fail more often than they survive. We have had 8 fail in recent times so we do not want to use OrionXS1400 again unless a failure root cause can be established and the failure can be explained. I am guessing that will take some time, in the meantime we need to keep clients happy. We dont want to go to alternator external regulators because in some cases these are new boats and changing alternator configurations can impact engine systems warranty. Because these installations are not personally ours, and in the future major software upgrades may take place we are reluctant to implement node red type solutions.

I would like to go to the Victron 100Amp Buck Boost 24volt to 24volt charger but it cannot be DVCC controlled. The VoltGo batteries are not at risk through overcharging because the Battery internal BMS controls MOSFET switching between the cells and the battery terminals and when the battery is fully charged and they do not need any more charge, they simply open circuit the MOSFETS. This has no material impact on the battery bank because instantaneously switch on when load is applied but it does create a difference between the battery voltage as shown by the smartshunt and the battery terminal voltage as shown by the battery BMS. Not a big deal if you are aware but can be unnecessarily confusing so by using DVCC everything is nicely controlled.

I would like a DVCC to relay closure device to listen to DVCC via V.E.Direct and when charging current is controlled by the Cerbogx to 0 amps, the relay opens (Like an “Allowed to Charge” signal ) and the 100Amp Buck Boost stops charging.

Is a device available that can convert DVCC chargeing parameters to a relay to control a non DVCC device with a DVCC signal? I realise that could be tricky as DVCC confirms the slave device but thought perhaps a way does exist that doesn’t involve writing bespoke software. Any ideas on this would be appreciated.

Many thanks….

2

You can use a node-red module with a relay for control. The node-red module reads the charging current of the DVCC battery. When the charging current is greater than 0, it turns the relay on or off. This function is easy to implement, but you’ll need some basic programming knowledge. You’ll also need to purchase a GX-IO module to control the relay, converting the digital signal into a relay signal to control the relay’s on/off state.