4. System Design
4.1. Lynx distribution system parts
A Lynx distribution system usually consists of a single Lynx Smart BMS module together with a Lynx Class-T Power, Lynx Power In or Lynx Distributor. Note that the Lynx Shunt VE.Can is only available with M8 connections and therefore cannot be connected directly to the Lynx Class-T Power, which has M10 connections.
Then, single, multiple or a combination of Lynx Distributor modules and/or Lynx Power In/Lynx Class-T Power In modules are added.
Together they form a continuous negative and positive busbar with DC connections and, depending on the configuration, integrated fuses, a battery monitor and/or lithium battery management.
It is also possible to use Lynx Power In/Lynx Class-T Power In modules and/or Lynx Distributor modules without a Lynx Smart BMS module. This is for situations where battery monitoring or battery management is not needed.
4.1.1. Interconnecting Lynx modules
Each Lynx module can be connected to other Lynx modules on the left and right. Note that M10 modules cannot be connected directly to M8 modules and vice versa.
If the Lynx module is the first in line, the last in line or is used by itself, it is possible to connect batteries, loads or chargers directly to these connections. Please note that additional fusing may be required if batteries and loads are connected directly to the interconnections.
The example below shows a Lynx system consisting of a Lynx Class-T Power In, Lynx Smart BMS and a Lynx Distributor. Together, they form a continuous busbar with fused battery and load connections, battery monitor, BMS system and contactor.
4.1.2. Orientation of Lynx modules
If the Lynx System contains a Lynx Shunt VE.Can or Lynx Smart BMS, the batteries always have to be connected to the left side of the Lynx System and the rest of the DC system (loads and chargers) connect to the right side. This so the battery state of charge can be correctly calculated.
The Lynx modules can be mounted in any orientation. Should they be mounted upside down so that the text on the front of the units is upside down as well, use the special stickers included with each Lynx module so that the text is orientated the correct way.
4.1.3. System Example - Lynx Class-T Power In and Lynx Distributor
This system uses a Lynx Class-T Power In to create a fused battery connection. A Lynx Distributor serves as a fused busbar for DC loads.
Multiple Lynx Class-T Power In modules can be connected together, creating a longer busbar with more battery connections.
4.1.4. System example - Lynx Class-T Power In, Lynx Smart BMS and a Lynx Distributor
This system contains the following components:
Lynx Class-T Power In with two fused paralleled lithium batteries and identical cable lengths for each battery
Lynx Smart BMS with built-in contactor and battery monitor
Lynx Distributor with fused connections for chargers, inverter/charger(s) and loads
A Cerbo GX (or other GX device)
4.2. System sizing
4.2.1. Current rating Lynx modules
The Lynx Distributor, Lynx Shunt VE.Can, Lynx Class-T Power In and the Lynx Power In are rated for a nominal current of 1000A for 12, 24 or 48 System voltages.
See the table below for an idea of how much power the Lynx modules are rated at different voltages. The power rating will indicate how big the connected inverter/charger system can be. Remember that if inverters or inverter/chargers are used, the batteries will power both the AC and DC systems. Also, be aware that a Lynx Smart BMS or a Lynx Ion (now discontinued) can have a lower current rating.
12V | 24V | 48V | |
---|---|---|---|
1000A | 12kW | 24kW | 48kW |
4.2.2. Fusing
The Lynx Class-T Power In has spaces for two Class-T fuses, available in 225A, 250A, 300A, 350A and 400A and must be purchased separately. Victron does not stock them.
The maximum current that will flow in one Class-T Power In is therefore 800A (2x400A). If more fuses are required, a second Class-T Power In (or a Lynx Distributor) can be installed. The total current of 1000 A must not be exceeded.
Always use fuses with the correct voltage and current rating. Match the fuse rating to the maximum voltages and currents that potentially can occur in the fused circuit. For more information on fuse ratings and fuse current calculations see the Wiring Unlimited book.
Caution
The total value of the fuses of all circuits should not be more than the current rating of the Lynx module or the Lynx model with the lowest current rating in case of multiple Lynx modules are used.
Important
The orientation of the Class-T fuses is important because their connection flanges are not always straight, regardless of the manufacturer. If the connection flanges are not lying flat on the busbar, turn the fuse 180° along its longitudinal axis.
Fasten the fuses with the 3/8" nuts marked black. Do not confuse these with the M10 nuts of the DC and busbar connections, otherwise the threads of the bolts may be damaged. Note that devices with a serial number starting with HQXXXX have M10 screws and nuts for the fuse connections. They are not marked black. There is no harm in confusing them with the other M10 screws and nuts.
4.2.3. Cabling
The current rating of cables used to connect the Lynx Class-T Power In to batteries , has to be rated for the maximum currents that can occur in the connected circuits. Use cabling with a sufficient core surface area to match the maximum current rating of the circuit.
For more information on cabling and cable thickness calculations, see our book, Wiring Unlimited.