Exide Technologies Section 93.10T - Manual (Page 4)

CAUTION! Before proceeding with the unpacking,
handling, installation and operation of a lead-acid storage
battery, the following general information should be reviewed
together with the recommended safety precautions.
A lead-acid battery is an electrochemical device that
contains electrolyte. The electrolyte is corrosive and can
cause injury.
Lead-acid batteries, when installed, are capable of high
voltage that can cause electrical shocks to personnel.
All lead-acid batteries in the course of normal operation
generate gases that could be explosive.
SECTION 1
1.0 SAFETY
1.1 Follow your company’s safety instructions when working
with or near industrial lead-acid batteries.
Thoroughly
familiarize yourself with industry and government guidelines
for charging, handling, and maintaining industrial batteries.
1.2 Assign battery and charger care to properly trained
personnel. The battery contains sulfuric acid. Avoid sulfuric
acid contact with skin, eyes, or clothing.
Wear a rubber
apron, gloves, boots, and goggles or face shield when
handling, checking, filling, or charging batteries.
1.3 Keep water readily available for flushing spilled
electrolyte from eyes or skin. Obtain medical attention
immediately.
1.4 Batteries produce hydrogen. Keep open flames away.
Do not check electrolyte level with a cigarette lighter or
match. Use a flashlight or permanent lights only. Do not
smoke or create sparks when working on batteries.
1.5 Lift batteries by the provided handles. If necessary,
utilize a hoist, crane, or lift-truck. Move batteries via truck,
conveyors, or rollers.
Make sure equipment is of ample
strength and properly installed. Be sure to place a rubber
mat or similar insulating material across tops of batteries
when handling.
1.6 Never lay metal tools, such as wrenches or other material
on top of batteries.
1.7 Insulate tool handles to protect against shorting.
1.8 Make sure that all battery connections are properly
prepared and tightened to prevent possible injury to
personnel or failure of system.
1.9 If acid is spilled on the floor, apply a strong neutralizer,
like baking soda. Check local regulations regarding disposal
of neutralized waste.
SECTION 2
2.0 RECEIVING BATTERIES
2.1 Immediately upon receipt of shipment, examine for
possible damage caused in transit. Damaged packing
material or staining from leaking electrolyte would indicate
rough handling. If such conditions are found, make notation
on delivery receipt before signing.
If battery damage is
found, request an inspection by the carrier and file a damage
claim. Also notify your GNB
® Industrial Power representative.
2.2 Shortly after receipt (within 15 days), examine all
batteries for concealed damage. Pay particular attention to
packing materials exhibiting damage or electrolyte staining.
Perform examination prior to installation and disposal of
packing materials. Examine cells for container damage,
misaligned elements, broken plates, or any other visible
damage.
SECTION 3
3.0. STORAGE
3.1. If the battery is not to be installed at the time of receipt,
it is recommended that it be stored indoors in a cool [16°C
(60°F) to 32°C (90°F)], clean, and dry location. Do not top
load pallets as possible battery damage may occur.
3.2. Prior to planned installation of the battery, the accessory
parts should be opened and checked against shipping
invoice (or battery system drawings) for completeness.
Checking parts before storage will eliminate potential delays
during installation.
3.3. The storage interval from date of shipment to the date of
installation/initial charge should not exceed six (6) months.
(Assumes 77°F/25°C average storage temperature. Assume
three months maximum storage time for 90°F/32°C average
temperatures.) Storage beyond the stated period can result
in sulfated plates, which can be detrimental to battery life and
performance. Failure to store the battery in accordance with
the above recommendations may void the warranty.
SECTION 4
4.0 BATTERY ASSEMBLY
AND INSTALLATION
4.1 SITE
It is recommended that the battery be installed indoors in a
clean and dry location. The battery should be shielded from
direct sunlight, heating units or steam pipes as they can
cause temperature gradients in the electrolyte and negatively
impact battery performance. The floor should be level and
capable of supporting the weight of the batteries (and rack).
4.2 VENTILATION
All lead-acid batteries in the course of normal operation
generate gases that could be explosive. Ventilation should be
provided in the battery room to prevent hydrogen gas from
exceeding a concentration of 1%. Concentrations above this
value can result in an explosive mixture that can be ignited
by sparks from adjacent electrical equipment. All air moved
by ventilation should be exhausted to the outside and not be
allowed to re-circulate into other confined areas.
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