Simon,
Many thanks for your presence here on HC. It is GREATLY appreciated!
My question is about the working (and storage) AMBIENT temperature range of the ZCell/ZBM2.
There is information available about the great working temperature range of the ZCell/ZBM2:
"ZCell operates at temperatures as hot as 50°C without active cooling"
"Operating electrolyte temperature range 15°C to 50°C (59°F to 122°F)"
"ZCell/ZBM2 can typically operate at ambient temperatures outside this range for extended periods".
As a resident of inland Australia, where the winter temperatures do plummet below 0°C for extended periods, I simply want to know whether there is any possibility of housing a ZCell outside and/or outside in a small enclosure in a sub-zero environment, albeit for only a few days/weeks a year. Or do I reasonably have to expect to house the unit in a semi-heated area? **This question is also quite salient for the use and/or storage of the ZCell on properties which are not permanently occupied (and not permanently maintained above freezing)**.
I know this issue had been raised before but I wonder if you can revisit this issue and/or indicate if there is more recent testing. Particularly:
What happens to the ZCell if the electrolyte falls below a certain temperature?
Are there automatic safety shutdown mechanisms in place for this instance?
At what temperature does the electrolyte freeze solid?
If the electrolyte freezes, would I kiss the battery goodbye in such an instance?
Are there established manual shut-down procedures if I DO intend to leave the ZCell in an environment which could potentially freeze?
Established warranty conditions for use and/or storage?
The ZCell and associated solar could be used to provide its own ongoing heating, but this isn't a foolproof solution for a $10K piece of equipment ;-)
Many thanks.
Looking forward to having you back on a more technical focus!
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