Alpha alphacell gelcell series, User Manual

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745-680-C0-002, Rev.B1 8
32ºF (0ºC)
50ºF (10ºC)
68
ºF
(2
0º
C
) 8
6ºF (
3
0ºC
)
1
0
4ºF
(
40
º
C)
Storage Time (Months)
R
esidual C
apacit
y (%)
Fig. 1, Capacity vs. Storage Time
During storage please note:
• The self-discharge rate is related to ambient temperature. The lower the temperature, the less
the discharge. Batteries should be stored in a clean, ventilated, and dry location with an ambient
temperature of 32ºF to 68ºF (0ºC to 20ºC).
• It is important to track open circuit voltage which is related to the density of the electrolyte. If
the open circuit voltage is lower than 12.6V or the batteries have been stored beyond the limits
shown in Figure 1, the batteries should be charged to avoid damage caused by self-discharge.
• All batteries should be fully charged before storage. Record the storage date and next
supplemental charge date in a maintenance record and on the battery.
• Upon battery deployment, verify all batteries within each string measure in the range of
+/- 0.3Vdc of the string average.
Electrical Safety
• Lethal voltages are present within the power supply and electrical enclosures. Never assume that
an electrical connection or conductor is not energized. Check circuits with a volt meter prior to any
installation or removal procedure.
• Observe circuit polarities.
• Always use the buddy system when working under hazardous conditions.
• Ensure no liquids or wet clothes contact internal components.
• Hazardous electrically live parts inside this unit are energized from batteries even when the AC input
power is disconnected.
• Use an insulated blanket to cover exposed portions of the battery system when performing extended
maintenance that could result in personal or equipment contact with the energized conductors.
• Certain types of rectifier circuits used in charging the battery may not include a line isolating transformer.
In these cases extreme caution should be used when maintaining and collecting data on the battery
system.
The product warranty is void if the batteries are not stored and recharged in accordance with these guidelines.
NOTE:
Important Storage Practices
All lead acid batteries experience self-discharge while in open circuit storage. This causes circuit
voltage and capacity to decrease (see Fig.1). This is especially true if the batteries are stored for
long periods of time at higher temperatures. Storage of the batteries in the shaded area of Figure
1 is not recommended, as higher temperatures combined with longer periods of storage will result
in diminished residual capacity — hence a shorter battery lifespan.