Alpha Technologies Nickel Cadmium Clear Case - Technical Manual - Manual (Page 9)

9 NI-CD-CLEAR-CASE
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 purified 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 specifications. Contact Alpha for replacement electrolyte for
your particular battery.
Electrolyte Notes
A specific gravity of 1.21/68ºF (1.21/20°C) is ideal. While specific 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 specific gravity depending on temperature.
Specific 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 filled 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, fill the cells slowly to a level slightly above
the low level mark. Let stand. Refer to section 2.1 for electrolyte preperation and filling.
Check the cells after the first 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 first 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 inflammation 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.