4. System Design
4.1. Lynx distribution system parts
A Lynx distribution system usually consists of a single Lynx Shunt VE.Can module or a single Lynx Smart BMS module.
The choice between a Lynx Shunt VE.Can or a Lynx Smart BMS depends on what type of batteries are used in the system. The Lynx Smart BMS can only be used with the Victron Energy Lithium Smart Batteries, while the Lynx Shunt VE.Can is suitable for all other batteries.
Then, single, multiple or a combination of Lynx Distributor modules and/or Lynx 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 just use Lynx Power In modules and/or Lynx Distributor modules without a Lynx Smart BMS module or a Lynx Shunt VE.Can modules. This for situations where battery monitoring or battery management is not needed.
4.1.1. Interconnecting Lynx modules
Each Lynx module can connect to other Lynx modules on the left side and on the right side.
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. However, we do not generally recommend this because additional insulation and fusing are needed.
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Lynx connections: The arrows indicate where the other Lynx modules can connect
The example below shows a Lynx system consisting of a Lynx Power In, Lynx Shunt VE.Can and Lynx Distributor. Together, they form a continuous busbar with unfused battery connections, battery monitor, main system fuse and fused load connections.
Interconnected Lynx modules: Lynx Power In, Lynx Shunt VE.Can and Lynx Distributor
The example below shows a Lynx system consisting of a Lynx distributor, Lynx Smart BMS and another Lynx Distributor. Together, they form a continuous busbar with fused battery and load connections, battery monitor, BMS system and contactor.
Interconnected Lynx modules: Lynx Distributor, Lynx Smart BMS and another Lynx Distributor
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 Power In only
In this system a Lynx Power In is used by itself. Multiple Lynx Power In modules can be connected to each other thus creating a longer busbar with more connections for batteries and/or loads.
The Lynx Power In does not contain fuses. All connected loads, chargers or batteries need to be fused externally.
System with a Lynx Power In only
4.1.4. System example - Lynx Shunt VE.Can, Lynx Power In, Lynx Distributor and lead acid batteries
This system contains the following components:
Lynx Power In with 4 paralleled 12V lead acid batteries.
Identical cable lengths for each battery.
Lynx Shunt VE.Can with main system fuse and battery monitor.
Lynx Distributor with fused connections for inverter/charger(s), loads and chargers. Note that additional modules can be added if more connections are needed.
CCGX (or other GX device) to read out the battery monitor data.
System with Lynx Shunt VE.Can, lead acid batteries, a Lynx Shunt VE.Can and a Lynx Distributor
4.2. System sizing
4.2.1. Current rating Lynx modules
The Lynx Distributor, Lynx Shunt VE.Can 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 Power In does not have spaces for fuses, fusing needs to be done externally. For more information on fuses and fuse holders, see the Fuses & Fuse holders product page.
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.
4.2.3. Cabling
The current rating of the wires or cables used to connect the Lynx Power In to batteries and/or the DC loads, 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.