PowerSpout
TRG installation 2018
Last revised July 2018
© 2018 EcoInnovation Ltd (NZ)
Page 9
Batteries are not maintenance free. All batteries need to be checked periodically for
individual voltage and flooded batteries also need to be checked with a hydrometer.
"Flooded Lead Acid" (FLA) batteries need to be checked for electrolyte level regularly
and topped up. If this is not done they will be ruined and the risk of explosion increases.
It is important to plan the accommodation of the batteries so that topping up with water is
easy to do. Batteries will use more water as they age. Consider fitting battery
recombination vents to significantly
reduce the need to top up with water.
Watering intervals can be as long as 12
months with such vents fitted.
Batteries are not for anyone to touch.
Sufficient security is required to
prevent a child or unknowing adult
from tampering with them.
Not everybody understands batteries.
There are recommended safety signs
that must be displayed above your
battery bank warning people of the
possible hazards.
Batteries are heavy and need a solid
flat supporting surface. Good access
for installation and replacement to
avoid lifting injuries is required.
You should always take care when working with batteries. Burns, acid splashes and even
electric shocks can occur. If you do not have sufficient skill and/or experience to install and
care for this equipment you should engage a renewable energy professional to do it for you.
1.3.3.
Mechanical hazards
Once the turbine has been commissioned, the top fairing needs to be fastened
in place with the fixings provided.
The turbine installer should ensure that the turbine is mounted such that
children cannot reach up under the turbine and be able to touch the spinning rotors.
1.3.4.
Water hazards
Ensure you install pipe with the correct pressure rating. Allow for pressure
surges in operation that result from closure of valves.
Legislation covering pressurised pipes applies in most countries for pipe pressures over 10
bar. The PowerSpout TRG runs at less than 4 bar. Generally there is little risk at less than
10 bar pressure. The biggest risk is insecurely fastened pipe joiners that blow off, with the
free end of the pipe hitting people. Securing the pipe at regular intervals, particularly near the
joins, and checking all joiners are tight will eliminate such risks.
1.3.5.
Installation and maintenance hazards
Penstocks (pipelines) are often routed through steep locations with various
hazards including danger of falling from heights, or rocks etc falling from
above. Take care to prepare suitable access to the site and install safety
ropes, steps, etc.
