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LG Energy Solution•RESU 16H Prime

Analysis by Marcus & Team

LG RESU 16H Prime Battery Swelling or Expansion

Diagnosing LG RESU 16H Prime battery swelling. Understand causes, solutions, safety, and prevention for swollen lithium-ion batteries in residential solar systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What are the recommended ambient temperature ranges for the LG RESU 16H Prime battery?

The optimal operating temperature range is typically between 15°C and 25°C (59°F and 77°F). Refer to the product datasheet for precise specifications.

•How often should I have my LG RESU 16H Prime battery inspected by a qualified technician?

Annual inspections are recommended to identify potential issues early and ensure safe and reliable operation.

•What should I do if I see a 'High Temperature' warning in the LG monitoring app?

Immediately check the ventilation around the battery and ensure that no obstructions are blocking airflow. Contact a qualified technician if the warning persists.

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Marcus leads the technical research department at Storage Faults. Together with a team of systems analysts, he specializes in translating complex solar storage error codes into actionable diagnostic steps for the US market.

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Why This Happens:

Overcharging: Exceeding the maximum charging voltage specified by LG, leading to lithium plating and gas generation.
High Temperature Operation: Operating the battery above the recommended temperature range accelerates electrolyte decomposition.
Manufacturing Defect: Internal cell defects can cause premature degradation and gas formation.
Over-Discharging: Discharging the battery below the minimum voltage can cause copper dissolution and short circuits.
Age-Related Degradation: Natural degradation of the battery chemistry over time can lead to gas generation.
BMS Failure: Malfunction of the BMS can result in improper charging and discharging cycles.

Symptoms:

The LG RESU 16H Prime battery enclosure exhibits physical swelling or expansion. This is visually apparent and may be accompanied by deformation of the battery casing. Internal pressure increase is suspected, potentially compromising the integrity of the battery cells.

Technical Recommendation:

Check the LG Energy Solution monitoring portal for historical battery temperature data. Consistent operation above the recommended temperature range is a strong indicator of potential future swelling issues. Also, check the cell voltage balance in the hidden BMS diagnostic menu (requires installer-level access and specialized software).

Critical Safety Precautions:

Swollen lithium-ion batteries pose a significant fire and explosion hazard due to the flammable gases inside. Do not attempt to puncture, disassemble, or incinerate the battery. High DC voltage is present – always use proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow safe work practices. Qualified electrician mandatory for all troubleshooting and repairs. Adhere to NEC Article 706 regarding energy storage systems.

Solution:

1

Immediately disconnect the LG RESU 16H Prime battery from the solar system at the DC disconnect switch. Ensure NEC 690.13 and 690.15 compliance.
2

Visually inspect the battery for any signs of electrolyte leakage, cracks, or other physical damage.
3

Using a calibrated multimeter, verify that the DC voltage at the battery terminals is within the safe range specified by LG. Record the voltage.
4

Measure the ambient temperature around the battery using an infrared (IR) thermometer. High ambient temperatures exacerbate swelling.
5

Contact a qualified LG Energy Solution certified installer or technician for further diagnostics. Do not attempt to open or repair the battery yourself.
6

Provide the technician with the battery's serial number, system date, and any error codes displayed on the inverter or monitoring system.
7

The qualified technician will likely replace the swollen battery. Ensure proper disposal of the damaged battery according to local regulations and LG's guidelines.

Technical Overview:

The LG RESU 16H Prime is a lithium-ion energy storage system (ESS) used in residential solar systems. It consists of multiple lithium-ion battery cells connected in series and parallel, managed by a Battery Management System (BMS). The BMS monitors cell voltages, temperature, and current, controlling charging and discharging to optimize performance and safety. Swelling indicates internal gas generation within the cells, caused by electrolyte decomposition or other chemical reactions. This can lead to reduced capacity, increased internal resistance, and potential thermal runaway.

Preventative Care:

Ensure proper ventilation around the battery to prevent overheating. Refer to LG's system manual for ventilation requirements.
Monitor the battery's performance regularly using the LG monitoring app or web portal. Pay attention to any unusual temperature fluctuations or error messages.
Schedule annual inspections by a qualified technician to check for any signs of degradation or potential issues.
Keep the battery's firmware updated to the latest version to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Avoid operating the battery at extreme temperatures (below 0°C or above 45°C).