Tesla 18650 Modules: How to use one if you find one?

[msebold]

Posts have appeared on Endless Sphere where people apparently have been able to take used Tesla cell modules and construct battery packs for their ebikes. Used packs are available on Ebay (primarily the 24 volt modules). http://www.ebay.com/itm/Tesla-Model-S-battery-module-24V-250Ah-5-3kWh-444-Panasonic-18650-3400mAh-/262333679871?hash=item3d144e48ff:g:OSkAAOSwh-1W5acD&vxp=mtr Although the Tesla cells modules might have significant advantages over a DIY battery pack I have several questions. I am hoping that some knowledgeable persons might chime in here.

1. Is there a realistic or practical way to physically deconstruct or physically modify these 6s74p modules to increase the voltage? My system requires ideally 67 volts at 60 amps continuous (I had been planning a DIY pack using 18650 cells in 18 series).

2. Is there any practical external device I could find that would step up the voltage (to 67-72 volts) and still produce the desired amperage?

3. As these modules appear to be water cooled, do they require a separate fluid pump to use them, or is the cooling system entirely self-contained?

Just a few questions for starters.

Intelligent responses welcomed!
Mike S.

 

[flippy]

you cant do what you want unless you have a beefy boost converter to kick the 12v up to 60v.
you cant modify the pack to deliver 60v.

and yes, it needs external cooling pumps if you pull serious watts.

 

[msebold]

you cant do what you want unless you have a beefy boost converter to kick the 12v up to 60v.
you cant modify the pack to deliver 60v.

and yes, it needs external cooling pumps if you pull serious watts.

Thanks. I think you are right. Just for the sake of anyone else interested I think I've found even a little more information answering (most of) my questions.

1. Yes, Tesla modules can be reconfigured, sort of. I understand that Okashira has partial Tesla modules that can be configured in 24 or 48 volt series only. But the partial modules are relatively huge (probably over 50 pounds) and appear to be too big for an ebike application.

2. High amperage external step-up converter is not practical. Even if I could find a step-up converter that would take 24 or 48 volts to 67 volts at 60 amps (I haven't yet), the conversion process would generate too much heat and eat up too much power to make it of any practical use.

3. Tesla modules do contain what's been described to me as a "fluid loop" (a heating/cooling system) primarily used for heating the batteries in cold conditions. Didn't find out whether this system is wholly self-contained in the battery module, or whether it is operated by other circuitry in the Tesla vehicle. As I won't be using the modules it doesn't really matter to me.

Hope this is helpful.

 

[okashira]

you cant do what you want unless you have a beefy boost converter to kick the 12v up to 60v.
you cant modify the pack to deliver 60v.

and yes, it needs external cooling pumps if you pull serious watts.

Thanks. I think you are right. Just for the sake of anyone else interested I think I've found even a little more information answering (most of) my questions.

1. Yes, Tesla modules can be reconfigured, sort of. I understand that Okashira has partial Tesla modules that can be configured in 24 or 48 volt series only. But the partial modules are relatively huge (probably over 50 pounds) and appear to be too big for an ebike application.

2. High amperage external step-up converter is not practical. Even if I could find a step-up converter that would take 24 or 48 volts to 67 volts at 60 amps (I haven't yet), the conversion process would generate too much heat and eat up too much power to make it of any practical use.

3. Tesla modules do contain what's been described to me as a "fluid loop" (a heating/cooling system) primarily used for heating the batteries in cold conditions. Didn't find out whether this system is wholly self-contained in the battery module, or whether it is operated by other circuitry in the Tesla vehicle. As I won't be using the modules it doesn't really matter to me.

Hope this is helpful.

each module is 54 lbs.

we can convert them to 12s.

They can be used on an ebike application if you can make it fit. More commonly, they can be used for 36V/48V UPS systems or EV conversions if you want higher voltage with less weight.

Our first 12s module customer was Harry:

He's got it on a trailer pulled by an e-bike. Ill try to get pics.
Here is what he said when I asked him how it's going.

Jon-
Ya, I've been running daily, pretty much my "do it all" commuter, grocery getter, ride for the pure fun-'cause I can-without
any range issues transportation!!  I have un tracked the f-450 twice since I visited with you, simply no need to.  The 
module was/is a plug-n-play substitution for the sla. The pb gave me a solid motor baseline for what & where the motor 
stays happy, with no over heating.  Been +100 degree days, no problem!   36v pb sag gave me a controller cut @ 34.5 v
constantly, probably never go there with the module. Staying balanced, she is, I am compiling a battery log book as I go 
into increment deeper discharge - pack v to cell s voltage - do not want/need any butt bites due to ignorance. Charged @
10a to 4.18 v  the first time June 22 & been going ever since!!  I really do pedal along 85% to 90% ( traffic- stop&go in town )  The DeWalt box is 'IP65' with OSB & plywood structural 4 side module protection topped with a 60qt 'Rubber maid
tub for cargo. When the plan comes together all is good!!!  Thanks - H