FIAMM Industrial Batteries
December 2012
FIAMM AGM Valve Regulated Recombination Batteries: FLX Series- Engineering Manual
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4
Self discharge
The state of charge of lead acid batteries slowly decreases while on open circuit due to self discharge.
In FIAMM FLX batteries, the rate of self discharge is approximately 2% per month at 77° F (+/- 5° F). In
case of extended storage it is necessary to refresh the batteries every 6 months to avoid a permanent
loss of capacity.
Cycling
FIAMM
FLX
batteries have been tested successfully according to the latest cycle life test procedure
standards specified for VRLA batteries (IEC and BS).
Gassing
Having a very high recombination efficiency (>99%), for batteries operated at 77° F and under normal
operating conditions, gas release is negligible. Laboratory test measurements show the following
gassing rates under normal operating conditions (2.27 Vpc, 77° F):
•
1
st
week of service 80cc/Ah/day
•
2
nd
week of service 10cc/Ah/day
•
After stabilization (2 months) 2cc/Ah/day
Battery rooms or cabinets should have natural ventilation and should not be fully sealed.
Operation of batteries in parallel
When the required capacity exceeds the capacity of a single string of batteries, it is common practice to
connect strings in parallel. It is important to pay attention to the following guidelines:
•
In each string only batteries of the same type, model, age and quantity should be used;
•
A symmetrical layout of the batteries should be designed (i.e. length and type of connector)
to minimize possible resistance variations;
•
Number of strings in parallel should be reasonable in terms of layout and application. If
strings are properly cabled, with equal voltage losses for each string, multiple strings can be
connected in parallel, safely to reach required total capacity.
2 INSTALLATION
Unpacking and inspection
Upon receiving a shipment of batteries it is important to check it carefully against related packing list.
Even though each consignment is certified and inspected by FIAMM before shipping, missing parts or
damages could be caused by mishandling during transportation. Any damage or any specific problem
found must be reported immediately by the consignee to the carrier and to the manufacturer for further
insurance or legal actions.
FIAMM
FLX
batteries are shipped fully charged with terminal posts insulated to avoid any possible short
circuit.
Batteries delivered in cabinets
For safety reasons, it is not advisable to pre-assemble batteries strings into cabinets before shipping
equipment to the site. However, if this is necessary, it is strongly recommended to protect the battery
system from mechanical stress and vibrations occurring during transportation. Batteries should be
properly fastened to the relevant cabinet shelves by means of plastic band and/or other adequate
methods. Furthermore the cabinets should be protected using shock-absorbing packaging material.
Special precautions must be taken to avoid accidental short circuits.
Handling requirements
Batteries are heavy so they require proper care in handling. Always lift each cell/block from underneath
or by the lifting handles. Never apply force to, or drop anything on, the terminal posts.
Room requirements
Batteries should be installed in a clean, cool, dry room on insulated racks or in a cabinet. Care must be
taken in providing adequate floor loading capability and sufficient aisle space for servicing. Good
lighting is also important to carry out visual inspections. Access to the battery room must be restricted to
qualified personnel only.
