C&D Technologies RS-1476 Standby Battery Vented Cell User Manual

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(1) Setpoint: Recommended float voltage setpoint range for the system when read at the battery terminals.

Charger settings can be calculated by multiplying the recommended target voltage times the number of series

cells in the battery system. Charger set points can be made anywhere within the range to commensurate with

the battery operating temperature, however, the best results for battery life and recharge time will be obtained

by setting the charger in the middle of the range.
(2) Individual Cell Voltage: Allowable cell voltage range. Individual cells will vary around the float voltage set

point. Cells will tend to converge around the set point over time. The individual cell voltage range is provided

to identify cells with unusually high or low voltages. These cells should be identified for further action such as

charging at a higher voltage (equalizing).
For information on constant current charging consult Part 4, Section 1.2 of this manual. See Part 4

Section 1.3 for operation at temperatures other than 77°F (25°C).

SECTION 2 - WATERING CELLS AND ADJUSTING ELECTROLYTE LEVEL

CAUTION

Do not adjust electrolyte levels before initial charging. Adjust electrolyte levels only when cells are

fully charged and stabilized at float voltage.

Before adding water to a battery, you must consider its condition and state of charge. For example, a new

battery which has recently experienced vibration during shipment will appear to have a low electrolyte level. Do

not add water to cells unless the plates are uncovered. If the plates are covered by electrolyte, the battery should

be placed on charge. The gases produced by charging will displace the electrolyte and raise it to an acceptable

level between the high and low level lines on the container. Had the level been adjusted to the high mark

before

charging, charging could have caused the electrolyte to rise to a point where it could overflow through the vent or

be forced up into the flame arrestor, requiring needless maintenance.
NOTE: Adding water to a battery to bring the initial electrolyte levels up will reduce the specific gravity, and will

introduce a high level of variation to specific gravity measurements.
If, after charging, the electrolyte levels have not risen to between the high and low level lines, sulfuric acid of the

same specific gravity

may be added to bring levels to the high mark. Adding acid is a procedure that should

be done only after consultation with C&D or performed by a C&D representative.

CAUTION

POTENTIALLY EXPLOSIVE GASES

VLA (flooded) lead acid cells release hydrogen gas during charge, which is potentially explosive. Flame

arrestors reduce the likelihood of ignition within a cell; however, caution must still be exercised not to

bring an open flame or sparks near the battery. Hydrogen can be evolved at the rate of 0.000269 cubic

feet per minute per charging ampere per cell at 77°F (25°C). The maximum level of hydrogen gas in the

battery room should not exceed concentrations specified by local codes, typically 1 to 2 percent by

volume. Do not install batteries in unventilated areas or enclosures.

SECTION 3 - CLEANING CELLS AND BATTERY RACK(S)

CAUTION

CLEANING THERMOPLASTIC CELL CONTAINERS – clean or wash the containers with clean water

only. Do not use solvents or glass cleaners.

Neutralize acid spills with a solution of sodium bicarbonate – one pound of sodium bicarbonate mixed with one

gallon of clean water. Never use ammonia, soda ash, sodium hydroxide, or any strong alkalis. If alkalis are

inadvertently spilled on the containers, they should be immediately washed off with clean water.

SECTION 4 - BATTERY OPERATION
4.1 Float service
In ideal float service, a battery is always maintained in a fully charged condition. However, in the event of a

power failure or system test in which the chargers are shut down, the battery must support the load resulting in

a battery discharge. Typically, a standby battery will not be subjected to more than one test discharge each year

and a transfer test monthly.

PART 2

CHARGING AND OPERATION OF BATTERY (CONTINUED)

RS1476/0215/CD