Alpha Technologies Underground Battery Vault - Manual (Page 6)

031-040-B0-002 Rev. B
6
Mechanical Safety
Power supplies can reach extreme temperatures under load.
Use caution around sheet metal components, especially sharp edges.
Depending on the model, batteries can weigh anywhere from 25 to 100 pounds. Exercise care when
handling and moving batteries. Use proper handling equipment.
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Safety Precautions, continued
• Do not allow live battery wires to contact the enclosure chassis. Shorting battery wires can result in a fi re
or possible explosion.
• Always replace batteries with those of an identical type and rating. Never install old or untested batteries.
• Avoid using uninsulated tools or other conductive materials when handling batteries or working inside the
enclosure.
• Remove all rings, watches and other jewelry before servicing batteries.
• Spent or damaged batteries are environmentally unsafe. Always recycle used batteries. Refer to
local codes for proper disposition of batteries
Battery Safety Notes
• Always refer to the battery manufacturer’s recommendation for selecting correct “FLOAT” and “ACCEPT”
charge voltages. Failure to do so can damage the batteries.
• Verify the Power Supply’s battery charger “FLOAT” and “ACCEPT” charger voltage settings.
• Batteries are temperature sensitive. During extremely cold conditions, a battery’s charge acceptance is
reduced and requires a higher charge voltage; during extremely hot conditions, a battery’s charge
acceptance is increased and requires a lower charge voltage. To compensate for changes in temperature,
the battery charger used in the power supply is temperature compensating. Refer to Section 2.5 for
instructions on connecting the Remote Temperature Sensor (RTS).
• If the batteries appear to be overcharged or undercharged, fi rst check for defective batteries and then
verify the correct charger voltage settings.
• To ensure optimum performance, inspect batteries every three to six months for signs of cracking,
leaking, or unusual swelling (note that some swelling is normal).
• Check battery terminals and connecting wires. Clean battery terminal connectors periodically and
retighten to approximately 50 inch-pounds. Spray the terminals with an approved battery terminal
coating such as NCP-2.