the C
100
capacity until the voltages and specific gravities have remained constant
over 3 x 1 hourly readings.
If the battery is not required immediately for service, it should be stored under roof in
a cool, clean, dry and well-ventilated area. Where connection has not been made to
the cell terminals, remove the covers, wipe the terminals clean and apply a thin layer
of Vaseline to the outer surface. Replace the terminal covers. Equalize charge at
three monthly intervals or whenever the cell voltage drops below 2.05Vpc (Volts per
cell) or the specific gravity drops below 1.210. The electrolyte levels should be
adjusted as required by topping up with approved water.
WIRING STANDARDS
Comply with all local regulations concerning codes of practice that apply to
electrical/battery installations.
BATTERY ASSEMBLY
If the cells have been supplied loose assemble the battery in the container/s. If (for
whatsoever reason) cells are not in plastic moulded trays or steel tanks, it is
essential that cells be strapped together so as to support the internal plates of the
cells while in operation. This should be done as follows.
1
Wooden boards
≥18mm thick should be used as support when strapping the
cells.
2
Note: In all cases, the wooden boards must be fitted against the 158mm
width
face of the cells / or 198mm in case of DIN cells. See Figure 3 below.
3
It is not necessary to place boards against the
length
of the cells.
4
It is not recommended to strap more than 2 rows of cells together as this can
potentially reduce the support on the ends of the rows as well as prevent
adequate air cooling to the cells.
5
Cell packing spacers must be placed between cells. A minimum of at least
one spacer should be used to separate four strapped cells.
6
Note: Fitting spacers between each cell will give the cells a better chance of
working cooler in operation, which is beneficial to the life of the cell.
7
Cells must be firmly strapped, reducing any bulging of the cells on the
supported ends.
8
Do not over tighten the strapping. The walls of the cell container must be
perpendicular and square and not bow inwardly or push inwardly due to over
tightening of the support boards.
