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

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1.9 Cell type identification

C&D cells may be identified by looking at the label placed on the cover of each cell. The label contains valuable

information such as:
1. cell type
2. nominal specific gravity
3. rated discharge time, current and final cell voltage

(an average of all cells in the battery)

4. date of manufacture
5. plant of manufacture
6. battery order number

SECTION 2 - TROUBLE SHOOTING, EXTENDED MAINTENANCE

General:
When properly maintained and charged, lead acid storage batteries should provide many years of trouble-free service.

However, despite their inherent dependability, failure to operate or maintain them correctly may lead to damage,

shortened life and possible loss of service. The following addresses some of the typical errors in operation and

maintenance:

2.1 Float versus cycle life

Standby batteries are designed and constructed to provide long life in continuous float service. They differ in design

significantly from other batteries, such as starting or traction types. Traction batteries are designed to be discharged and

recharged daily. In contrast, standby batteries are float charged continuously ready to supply instantaneous power either

directly to the load or by way of interfacing electronics.
To assure a battery will perform during power outages and other emergencies, it is strongly recommended that

unnecessary testing be kept to a minimum, not to exceed the following:
• The performance of an initial acceptance test not to exceed user’s originally specified reserve time

• A load test to be performed not more than once every 12 months to verify battery capacity at user’s originally

specified discharge rate

• A monthly transfer test to verify system load transfer and electrical system performance

The end user is expected to maintain records of all battery testing and unplanned equipment discharges in order to

comply with the requirements of the warranty.

2.2 Low float voltage and sulfation

A battery that receives inadequate charge or inadequate float voltage will develop sulfated plates. In some instances,

the charger may have been turned off either, inadvertently or by choice. The result of such conditions is a battery

left in a partially charged condition. The first noticeable signs may be erratic cell voltage. Finally, the plates may

become sulfated. This condition can be visually recognized by an experienced battery technician. If recognized in its

early stages, sulfate may be removed by providing equalize charge to the battery. In advanced cases, sulfate may

be extremely difficult to remove. In cases of advanced sulfation, contact the C&D Technical Services Department for

assistance. Sulfated batteries are not fully charged and therefore have not completed the electrochemical reaction of

recharge. Accordingly, they will have reduced capability or performance. If allowed to remain in a partially recharged

condition for an extended period of time, sulfated batteries may suffer irreversible damage, possibly requiring

replacement.
For additional information on recovery of sulfated batteries, contact your C&D representative or the Technical

Services Department.

PART 4

REFERENCE INFORMATION, TROUBLE SHOOTING & EXTENDED MAINTENANCE (CONTINUED)

RS1476/0215/CD