Alpha Technologies AlphaCell GelCell Series - Manual (Page 23)

23 745-680-C0-002, Rev. B
5.0 Battery Symptoms and Solutions, continued
Problem with Symptom Possible Causes Possible Result Corrective Actions
DC Voltage
Checks
System float voltage >
2.3V/C average 77°F
(25°C)
Charger output set
incorrectly
Overcharging causes
excessive gassing and
drying out of electrolyte
and contributes to potential
thermal runaway.
Reset the charger output
voltage to recommended
value.
System float voltage <
2.25V/C average 77°F
(25°C)
Charger output set
incorrectly
Undercharging results in
gradual loss of operating
time and capacity with
successive discharge cycles.
If persistant, an irreversible
level of lead sulfate develops
on the plates resulting in a
permanent capacity loss
Reset the charger •
output voltage to
recommended value.
Equalize battery system •
from 48 to 72 hours
and perform capacity
test. If capacity loss is
permanent, replace the
total battery system.
Individual battery float
voltage > 13.3 VDC
Potentially the •
individual battery has
shorted cell
Verify with impedance •
or conductance check
Reduced operating time
under load. Increased float
current. Heating of cell during
discharge. Contributes to
potential thermal runaway.
Replace individual battery.
Individual battery float
voltage 14.5 VDC for
6 cell
Potentially open cells in
individual battery. Confirm
by checking for zero float
current or check for very
high impedance of the
battery.
Failure to support load. Could
result in an internal arc, could
ignite gasses within the cell.
Replace individual battery.
DC voltage measured
between battery system
output terminals and
ground (rack) or a
ground fault indicated
by automatic monitoring
equipment.
Damaged container allow-
ing electrolyte to wick out
to grounded surface (rack).
Personnel shock hazard •
resulting in serious
injury or electrocution.
Potential burning of •
container at damaged
area or battery fire.
Determine the source of
ground fault and replace
battery.
Temperature
Checks
Elevated room tem-
perature
Lack of adequate air condi-
tioning or ventilation
Reduced battery life
Cool room or accept reduced
battery life
Elevated battery temp.
Elevated room temp. •
Inadequate cabinet •
ventilation
Discharge - charge •
cycle
Reduced battery life •
Reduced life and •
potential thermal
runaway
Normal if not exceeding •
18°F increase
Improve room air •
conditioning
Improve cabinet •
ventilation
Limit recharge current •
High current recharge
High charging voltage •
Shorted cells •
Normal if not exceeding
18F/10C increase over
ambient
Limit recharge current •
Reduce within •
specifications
Replace shorted cells •
and evaluate total string.
Table 2, Battery Symptoms and Solutions, continued