Installation and Operation
8
900-0227-01-00 Rev A
The EnergyCell can be discharged and recharged (cycled) regularly to a level as low as 50%
depth of discharge (DoD). This is common in a cycling application such as an off-grid system.
However, for optimal life, the best practice is to avoid ever discharging below 50%. Lower DoD
levels can shorten the battery life.
If operated in a range with consistent charge and discharge to no more than 50% DoD, the
EnergyCell PLC will typically have a life of 3,000 cycles. With consistently lighter discharge
(10 to 30% DoD with proper recharge), the battery may have significantly more cycles.
For the anticipated cycle life, see the OutBack data sheet for the EnergyCell 200 PLC. (The
cycle life can be affected by temperature. Figure 2 on the previous page shows the effect of
ambient temperature on typical battery life.)
System Layout
CAUTION: Fire Hazard
Failure to ventilate the battery compartment can result in the buildup of hydrogen
gas, which is explosive.
o
The battery enclosure or room must be well-ventilated. This ventilation protects against accidental
gas buildup. All EnergyCell batteries are valve-regulated and do not normally emit noticeable
amounts of gas. However, in the event of accidental leakage, the enclosure must not allow the
leaked gas to become concentrated.
o
The battery enclosure or room must have adequate lighting. This is necessary to read terminal
polarity, identify cable color, and view the physical state of the battery as required.
o
The battery should be installed with a minimum 36” (91.4 cm) clearance in front. This allows access
for testing, maintenance, and any other reasons.
o
Multiple batteries should have a minimum of ½” (12.7 mm) clearance on either side.
Battery Configurations
Figure 3
Series String Configurations
Series String (24 Vdc)
Series String (48 Vdc)
Load +
Load –
Load +
Load –
Batteries are placed in series (negative to positive) for additive voltages. Batteries in series are known
as a “string”. A string of two EnergyCell batteries has a nominal voltage of 24 Vdc and can be used
for 24-volt loads. A string of four has a nominal voltage of 48 Vdc. Other voltages are possible.
However, batteries in series do not have additive amp-hours. A single string of any voltage (as shown
above) has the same amp-hours as a single battery.
When replacing batteries, a new battery should not be placed in series with old batteries. This will
cause severe stress and shorten the life of all batteries. All batteries in a string should be replaced at
the same time.
