8.2
Testing and Replacing the Batteries
8.2.1
Battery Life
Batteries lose their ability to store power as they age. Regularly test the batteries to ensure that they can continue
providing reliable service. Battery life is reduced by three major factors:
Temperature
– higher ambient temperatures, especially above 25°C (77°F), will reduce battery life. For
example, an average operating temperature of 27°C (81°F) will likely reduce the life of the battery by 25%.
Ensure that the Alpha FXM and batteries are situated in a well ventilated area with adequate temperature
control. A cool environment is preferable.
Number of discharge cycles
– the more frequent the batteries are discharged, the shorter the battery life.
Frequent power outages imply the need for more frequent battery replacement.
Depth of discharge
– the longer the batteries are required to provide back up power, the shorter the battery
life. Frequent full discharging and the associated recharging of the batteries reduces the life. Shut
down the electrical load or return to primary power as soon as possible to extend the battery life.
8.2.2
Battery Run Time
The chart below shows typical run times (time to full discharge) for the standard batteries supplied with this unit.
These runtimes are for batteries in new and good condition. The run time performance will deteriorate over time in
a progressively decreasing curve.
Discharge Rate Characteristics
100%
Load
50%
Load
Discharge Time
Figure 70
— Typical Discharge Characteristics for Lead Acid Batteries
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Summary of Contents for FXM 350 Series
Page 1: ...Alpha FXM Series 350 USER MANUAL...
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