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Split charge relays are available in different types. Each type is designed for specific functionality and applications. The main types include the following:
Standard 12V Split Charge Relay
This is one of the most commonly used split charge relays. Normally, it is applied in vehicles with a 12V electrical system. This relay is designed to charge the auxiliary battery when the main battery is being charged. At the meanwhile, it disconnects the auxiliary battery from the charging circuit when the main battery is not in use.
Heavy-Duty 12V Split Charge Relay
Users prefer this type of relay due to its ability to handle high power. This relay is ideal for vehicles that run equipment or have a high current draw. Some of the vehicles deploying this relay are 4x4s, trucks, or campers, where the battery power demand is very high. It has heavy-duty construction, thus making it highly durable in tough environments.
High-Current 12V Split Charge Relay
This power relay is designed to accommodate larger current loads. This makes the relay system suitable for charging an auxiliary battery at a faster rate. High-current relays find their applications where an auxiliary battery supports power-intensive equipment. Such equipment includes refrigerators, inverters, or camping gear in an off-road or remote setting.
Automatic Split Charge Relay
This kind of relay operates without any manual intervention. It automatically senses the voltage levels of the main battery. If the voltage drops below a certain threshold, it connects the auxiliary battery to provide power. Conversely, when the battery is fully charged, it disconnects the auxiliary battery to prevent overcharging. This function makes them ideal for users who need low maintenance.
Dual-Output Split Charge Relay
This type of relay can charge two auxiliary batteries simultaneously. That is, while maintaining separate circuits within the unit. It is commonly applied in vehicles with more complex power needs. For example, camper vans with nested living systems that require multiple battery setups to work.
Split charge relays have varying features. These features determine their performance, applications, and how they are installed. Some of the key features include the following:
Energized and De-energized Modes
Energized relays are normally closed-type that connect the auxiliary battery to the charging circuit when the vehicle's engine is running. In contrast, the de-energized mode isolates the auxiliary battery from the charging circuit when the engine is turned off. This differentiation helps manage the battery usage and prevents the auxiliary battery from draining.
Automatic or Manual Operation
Split charge relays have automatic and manual operations. Automatic 12v relays detect the voltage changes of the main battery autonomously. They then switch on or off accordingly. Manual split charge relays require operation via a switch or installation. This creates a connection or disconnection between the auxiliary battery and the charging system. Automatic relays are convenient because of their hands-free operation. Manual relays provide more control to users.
Multi-Functional Relay
Some split charge relays are designed to carry out multiple roles concurrently apart from splitting the charges. For instance, they can also power 12V accessories by connecting them to the auxiliary battery. This provides a simple installation for powering gadgets. These multifunctional relays save space and are highly versatile for differing needs.
High Current Capacity
Most split charge relays are designed to support auxiliary batteries and 12V electrical systems that are commonly used with high-current devices. Devices such as power tools, refrigerators, or camping stoves, require a relay to support current loads of up to 60 amperes. This protects the relay from burning out or failing due to excess current.
Sealed and Waterproof Design
Many split charge relays are manufactured with sealed and waterproof casings. This protects them against dust, moisture, and other harsh environments. This feature ensures that even in off-road or marine applications, the relay functions effectively without any risk of water damage or corrosion.
Split charge relays are essential components used in many vehicles and off-grid setups to power the auxiliary batteries. Some of the common applications include the following:
Vehicle Campers and SUVs
Split charge relays are commonly used in camper vans, RVs, and SUVs. They help power a refrigerator, lights, and other camping gear by keeping an auxiliary battery charged. This allows the main vehicle battery to reserve the charge for starting the engine, while the auxiliary battery powers all the camping appliances.
Marine Applications
In marine environments, split charge relays are used to manage the batteries on yachts and boats with electric systems. Here, the main battery powers the engine and essential equipment, while the auxiliary battery supports items like fish finders, indoor and outdoor boat lights, and communication devices. Waterproof and corrosion-resistant split charge relays are essential for reliable performance in wet environments.
Off-Grid Power Systems
Split charge relays are used in off-grid power systems where solar panels, a generator, or another charging source keeps the auxiliary battery bank charged. This stored energy can be deployed to power a 12V electric system or inverter that supplies AC power to home appliances. Relays automate the battery management, ensuring batteries are always fully charged and ready for use.
Emergency and Backup Power
Split charge relays are widely applied in emergency vehicles and equipment. Here, an auxiliary battery is kept charged by transferring power from the split-charge relay to the various crucial devices requiring the battery to run, like radios, lights, and medical equipment. This ensures the auxiliary battery can serve as a backup power source when the main battery cannot work.
Commercial and Work Vehicles
Work and utility trucks, service vans and other work vehicles use split charge relays to help power 12V equipment such as portable fridges, power tools, or communication gear. These vehicles rely on the main battery to power the engine, with auxiliary batteries storing the energy needed to run equipment even if the vehicle is not in motion.
To choose a suitable split charge battery isolator, various factors come into play. Here are some key considerations:
Vehicle System Voltage
The first consideration is the vehicle's system voltage. This means that a split charge relay designed for a 12V system is suitable for most of the vehicles. Meanwhile, relays designed for a 24V system are ideal for heavy-duty trucks and other industrial vehicles. Choosing a relay that matches the vehicle's voltage prevents system failures and damage.
Current Rating
Split charge relays have varying current ratings. These ratings are normally dependent on how much current the relay can handle. While this is the case, there are usually the main considerations. For a high-current relay, it is preferred in applications using power-hungry equipment. Such equipment includes a power inverter and refrigerator. On the other hand, a lower-rated relay will work for light use.
Type of Operation
Relays can be either automatic or manual. An automatic relay will be ideal for users who prefer a hands-free operation. They switch on and off automatically based on battery voltage. Meanwhile, manual relays give users more control, allowing the relay operation to be activated or deactivated. This makes them ideal in emergencies or when power conservation is needed.
Relay Construction
This is an important consideration if the vehicle is normally operated in harsh environments. In this case, a relay with sealed and waterproof housing will be ideal. This helps protect the internal components from dust, moisture, and other elements that can cause damage. This durability will ensure the relay works effectively for a long time.
Additional Functions
Some relays have extra features to help decrease the installation components. For example, a relay with a built-in fused output for powering accessories will simplify the wiring. Therefore, choosing a split charge relay with extra functions that fit the user's needs will help save space and time during installation.
No, a split charge relay cannot be used in any vehicle. Each relay is manufactured to be compatible with a particular voltage system. For example, a relay meant for a 12V system cannot work in a 24V system, and vice versa.
Manufacturers make automatic relays to switch on and off by themselves based on the battery voltage. Conversely, manual relays require the operator to switch the relay on and off. This means that with Commandel, users have more control over the operation as compared to automatic relays.
Yes, it is possible to power several accessories using one split charge relay. However, one must ensure that the relay can handle the cumulative current demand of all connected items.
A built-in diode in the relay interrupts the connection between the auxiliary battery and the charging circuit whenever the engine is off. At this moment, the de-energized state of the relay naturally isolates the auxiliary battery from the voltage. Thus, this protects the battery from overcharging.
Yes, using a fuse during the installation of a split charge relay is very important. Fuses help protect the wiring and the relay from electrical surges or short circuits that may occur.
