22 S&C Instruction Sheet 768-550
Maintenance
Charging Voltage
The correct charging voltage improves battery life expectancy.
For every 0.6 volts in excess of the recommended charging
voltage, the life of these 12-volt batteries can be reduced by up
to 50 percent. Undercharging causes sulfation, which shortens
life expectancy. Mea sure the battery charger output voltage
with load connected and batteries disconnected. Account
for the temperature compensation factor. If necessary reset
the charging voltage.
For instructions about recalibrating S&C Battery Char-
gers typically used in the Type CCU-SP, refer to S&C Battery
Charger Recalibration Procedure RD-3808.
The battery charger/switch control typically used in the
Type CCU-XP does not require recalibration; therefore, a
procedure is not refer enced.
New Battery Preparation
The replacement batteries must be in good condition. New
batteries are received with an unknown history of handling
and storage and may not have been optimally conditioned
to reach full-capacity charge. To condition a battery to use
its full capacity, it must be given multiple charge/discharged
cycles under controlled conditions. Automated charging
equipment is available from a number of manufacturers.
If batteries are not preconditioned this way, they may not
provide full capacity when installed and may take several
months to reach full capacity.
Install a battery ID label on each battery in a visible loca-
tion.
Recommendations for battery storage are located in the
“Specifications” section on pages 28 and 29.
