Maintenance
Manual_Grid_Power_FNC_en_V3_0
41
10.2.
Checking the Electrolyte Levels
Note - valid for grid|power FNC
®
VR cells
No water addition or filling is required over the service life when operated on the recommended
specific float charge voltage at 20 °C.
However, it is recommended to inspect the electrolyte levels every six months visually.
WARNING!
Contact with the electrolyte can happen when measuring the electrolyte level. It can cause
severe chemical burns to the skin and severe damage to the eyes.
Wear safety glasses and safety gloves (five finger gloves made of latex or PVC) when working on
the batteries.
You can see the level of the electrolyte from the outside, if the housing of the FNC
®
cells are
made of polypropylene (PP).
Note
If the following conditions are true, no further action is necessary:
The electrolyte levels of all FNC
®
cells are higher than the middle between minimum and
maximum. Otherwise, you have to refill the electrolyte levels with distilled water to the
maximum level, refer to
10.6 Fill up the Electrolyte Level with Distilled Water on page 46
The difference between the FNC
®
cells must be not greater than 5 mm.
If the level of the electrolyte is not visible, use the glass tube for measuring (HOPPECKE
material number: 4144140010) as described below.
1. Open or remove the plug of each grid|power FNC
®
cell.
Note - valid for grid|power FNC
®
VR cells
If you want to check the electrolyte level with the glass tube for measuring, remove the VR plug
carefully. It is recommended to use the HOPPECKE plug opener (Mat. No. 4142500125)
Alternatively use a small, slot screwdriver. Grab the plug with your hand and slowly twist and
vertically pull out the plug from the cell opening.
Wear personal protective equipment because grid|power FNC
®
VR cells operate under pressure.
Removing a VR plug can release electrolyte spray.
Note
It is recommended to use the glass tube for measuring (HOPPECKE material number:
4144140010) to check the electrolyte.
2. Check the electrolyte level in each cell with the glass tube for measuring (HOPPECKE
material number: 4144140010).
3. Keep the top opening of the glass tube free and guide it into the cell until it meets some
resistance.
