55
DRIVE
BATTERIES
- Check the battery charge condition
Since the speci
fi
c weight of the electrolyte is proportional to the battery’s charge condition, measuring the
speci
fi
c weight of the electrolyte is an effective, accurate way of checking the charge of the battery. When the
battery is charged and in normal conditions, with the electrolyte at the correct level, its density will be about
1.260 (30° Bè) at 30°C. If the density is between 1.26 (30° Bè) and 1.20 (24° Bè), the battery is partially
fl
at,
while if the density is below 1.14 (18° Bè) the battery is completely
fl
at.
- Measuring the density
Measuring the density of the electrolyte is the most important check to be made on a battery, so this measurement
must be made with the greatest care, using a densimeter. Insert the syringe densimeter and draw in enough
electrolitye to raise the
fl
oat. Check that the tip of the
fl
oat does not touch the rubber element, or stick to the
glass sides. If the density has to be measured after distilled water has been added, wait until the density of all
the liquid in the element has become uniform.
- Topping up with water
Add distilled water to every single cell of the battery after charging the batteries, to bring the level to 6 mm
above the plates. Initially, do this every time the batteries are charged. Subsequently, top-ups may become less
frequently on the basis of the manager’s experience, but must take place at least once a week.
- Charge limits
There is no need to recharge the battery if the density at the end of the working day has not dropped below 1.24 (28° Bè).
Overcharging is the most common error in the use of drive batteries. If the batteries are continuously overcharged,
their lifetime may be drastically shortened.
The maximum recommended temperature is 45°C. If the electrolyte temperature rises more than 10-12°C over
the ambient temperature, overcharging may occur regardless of the actual temperature reached. If there is a 5-
10% residual battery charge indicated on the dashboard, it is only possible to vacuum, the brushes will stop.
- Battery charging premises
The gases developed during battery charging represent explosion hazard; it is therefore necessary to ensure
adequate ventilation during charging, and
fi
rm contacts on the terminals to prevent any sparks. The premises
in which storage batteries are charged mut be well ventilated and the temperature must not exceed 40-45°C.
If ventilation through the windows is not adequate, use special vent ducts, which mut not be connected to the
ordinary chimneys. When necessary, use suitable fans to provide faster air exchange.
- No continuous service or out of use
If the battery is not used continuously, it must be given a “refresher” charge at least once a month, even if the
speci
fi
c weight of the electrolyte is still high. If the battery is out of use for long periods, it must be stored in a
cool, dry place. It must be charged once a month completely until lively gas bubbles are seen in all the elements
and the voltage and speci
fi
c weight readings remain constant for 3-4 hours. In all cases, before a battery which
has been out of use for a long time is put back into service, it must be recharged and the elecrolyte level must
be checked.
- Installing the batteries (fi g.13)
Fit the battery in the compartment provided by proceeding as follows:.
- Remove the steering wheel 1;
- Remove the seat 2,
- Remove the cross-bar 3.
Check them carefully before installation, ensuring that the elements are not broken. Never add electrolyte if the
batteris have been in use for one week or longer. The mating surfaces for battery connection must be clean;
apply a
fi
lm of grease or vaseline to the terminals or connections. The batteries may have lost a little charge in
transit; in this case, charge them before using them on the machine.
- Installing the battery charger
This must be installed in a dry, well ventilated place, well away from heat sources and corrosive environments.
Ensure that the voltages correspond (see nameplate on battery charger). Protect the system with a delayed
switch or a fuse rated above the maximum power absorption of the battery charger. Always ensure the polarity
is correct when connecting the battery socket.To hold open the battery compartment. Do not smoke and keep
out the free
fl
ames.
Содержание 33.DR.018
Страница 2: ...WWW RCM IT www rcm it ...
Страница 3: ...3 DRIVE ...