Alpha Technologies Nickel Cadmium Clear Case - Installation and Operation - Manual (Page 9)

9 745-680-B6-001 Rev. A
2.1 Preparation
The electrolyte used in nickel cadmium batteries is a solution of chemicaly pure potassium
hydroxide (commonly known as caustic potash) mixed with powder lithium hydroxide and
dissolved in distilled or ion-exchange purifi ed water.
The electrolyte base is provided by Alpha and comes in a solid, dry tablet contained in a
sealed vessel. Only use pure electrolyte to ensure the cell is not damaged. Prepare the
electrolyte according to factory specifi cations. Contact Alpha for replacement electrolyte for
your particular battery.
Electrolyte Notes
A specifi c gravity of 1.21/68ºF (1.21/20°C) is ideal. While specifi c gravity values ranging
from 1.16–1.23 at 68ºF (20°C) are acceptable, values above 1.23 may damage the cell,
and values below 1.16 will result in a loss of capacity.
The electrolyte solution has a different specifi c gravity depending on temperature.
Specifi c gravity increases by 0.0005 per 1.8ºF (1°C) below 68ºF (20°C) and decreases by
0.0005 per 1.8ºF (1°C) above 68ºF (20°C).
While mixing or storing electrolyte, use a vessel made of glass, porcelain steel, anti-
alkaline plastic, nickel, or monel. Never use copper, aluminum, celluloid, or wood, as
these will be corroded by the alkaline electrolyte.
Electrolyte readily absorbs carbon dioxide from the air, forming potassium carbonate,
which causes poor cell output. Keep the electrolyte in an air-tight container to avoid
contamination.
2.2 Filling Cells
Cells are delivered empty of electrolyte solution and need to be fi lled before being put into
service. Fill only cells which will be put into service immediately. Properly store cells that are
not currently in use as instructed in section 5.0.
Remove the transport seal from the cell vents.
Using the electrolyte jug and funnel supplied, fi ll the cells slowly to a level slightly above
the low level mark. Let stand. Refer to section 2.1 for electrolyte preperation and fi lling.
Check the cells after the fi rst 30 minutes. If the level has dropped, add more electrolyte.
The cells must stand for at least four hours to absorb the electrolyte.
Perform the fi rst charge as soon as possible after the cells have had time to absorb the
electrolyte. See section 3.2.
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2.0 Electrolyte
WARNING!
Electrolyte can cause serious infl ammation of the skin and destroys clothing; always wear
protective equipment. If contact with the skin or eyes occurs, obtain medical treatment as
soon as possible.