Multilink EB1s Installation And Operation Manual Download Page 8

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Issue 13 (11/14/2017)

1.6 Battery Safety Issues

When installing batteries for the power supply, do not mix battery types (gelled electrolyte and AGM) in the same
string or within the same cabinet.

DO NOT

use flooded type batteries containing liquid electrolyte under any

circumstances. Such batteries are hazardous to use within broadband enclosures and can degrade or destroy
equipment installed in the enclosure with them. Flooded batteries also pose environmental hazards when acid
containment methods cannot be employed. Use only gelled electrolyte or AGM batteries of suitable size, voltage
and capacity for use in a broadband system.

DANGER

Batteries can supply extremely large currents (>4000 amps) for a short period of

time, sufficient to vaporize or melt metal objects.  For this reason, installers
must remove watches, rings and other jewelry before placing or connecting
batteries in the cabinet.  Insulating gloves and protective clothing should be
worn during battery installation, consistent with local practices.  Use only fully
insulated tools designed for battery maintenance.

Batteries contain sulphuric acid in gelled or semi-liquid form. Direct contact with any spilled electrolyte from a
damaged battery may result in skin irritation or chemical burns. For this reason, handle batteries carefully to
avoid puncturing the case and releasing any of the electrolyte.

In case of contact with the electrolyte, thoroughly

wash any contaminated areas of the skin with soap and water. In case of contact with the eyes, immediately flush
with copious amounts of water and seek medical attention. Minor surface spills can be neutralized with an
appropriate neutralizing agent such as bicarbonate of soda (baking soda).

Always use proper lifting techniques when handling batteries. Each 12-volt battery weighs approximately 30 Kg
or 66 lbs.

Personnel installing or servicing batteries must wear eye protection (goggles or full face shield) and protective
clothing (apron and gloves) if necessary, according to local practices. Additionally,

only

fully insulated tools

specifically designed for battery installation and service should be used for that purpose. Tools wrapped with
vinyl or fabric-based electrical tape are NOT acceptable substitutes. (Insulated wrenches complying with IEC
60900 and ASTM F-1505 Standards

are distributed by various industrial supply organizations.)

The BATTERY CIRCUIT breaker on the front panel of the power supply must be operated to the OFF (O) position
before installing, changing and connecting batteries.

Verify correct battery polarity and voltage at the DC input connector of the power supply before closing the
BATTERY CIRCUIT breaker. Applying DC input of improper polarity or voltage can seriously damage or entirely
destroy the power supply.

Replace any battery that is found to have a swollen or cracked case. Always recycle used batteries to reclaim
lead and other materials that can pose environmental hazards if disposed of improperly.