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4.0 TEMPERATURE
Higher temperatures reduce the operational life of any battery. Lower temperatures will reduce the available capacity. Compared to
lead-acid batteries nickel-cadmium batteries are not as greatly affected by high and low temperatures but they are still affected.
The typical operating temperature range is -4°F to 113°F. The recommended operating temperature range is 68°F to 77°F. This will
maximize life and minimize maintenance. All technical data relates to a rated temperature of 77°F.
5.0 ELECTROLYTE
Nickel cadmium batteries electrolyte is a solution of potassium hydroxide (KOH) with a small amount of lithium hydroxide. This alkaline
electrolyte acts as an ionic conductor and consequently the specific gravity does not change significantly with the state of charge of the
cell. The specific gravity will increase slightly when the electrolyte level is low due to water loss.
The nominal S.G. of the electrolyte at 77°F is 1.19-1.22. The maximum deviation is +/-.01g/cm3. Electrolyte specific gravity should not
be measured immediately after water has been added.
Filling bottles, hydrometers etc., used with lead acid batteries must never be used with alkaline batteries in order to prevent acid
contamination. NEVER USE SULPHRIC ACID in an alkaline battery.
6.0 SPECIAL APPLICATIONS
Whenever the batteries are to be used for special applications (non floating type applications) such as repeated cycling or under
extreme ambient conditions, please contact your sales office. Different instructions may apply. In addition, the battery may have a
shorter operational life.
7.0 MAINTENANCE
AND
TESTING
Water Topping:
Use ONLY de-mineralized or distilled water (purity grade: maximum conductivity 10 µS/cm) to top off cells.
Under ideal operating conditions, flooded Ni-Cad batteries should require watering every 6-24 months. Watering intervals are
influenced by temperature, charging rates and the number and depth of discharges.
VRPP batteries require watering every 7-15 years depending on the same factors as listed above.
Top up the electrolyte level to the < Max > line. Topping over < Max > line when combined with an equalize charge can lead to boil
over.
Never let the electrolyte level fall below the <Min> line or the top of the plates.
Do not add water during equalize charge since accurate level readings are not possible when the battery is gassing.
Avoid splashing water when topping up. A wet battery can result in earth faults and /or erratic operation.
Always keep the flame-arresting vents closed except for when topping up electrolyte levels.
On float charge, the homogenization will eventually occur and an equalize charge is not necessary. If preferred after topping off the
water level, an equalize charge up to 72 hours can be applied to help reduce the time for homogenization of the electrolyte density.
Cleaning
Keep containers and lids dry and free from dust. Clean with a damp cotton cloth without man-made fibers or addition of cleaning
agents. Do not use feather dusters or dry cloths. This could cause static discharge which can lead to an explosion hazard
If potassium carbonate crystals (grey white deposits) form on top of the battery, clean them off with a soft brush and wipe with a damp
cloth followed by a clean dry cloth.
Do not use a wire brush or solvents of any kind, such as gasoline, thinner, acetone, kerosene etc.
Intercell Connectors
Check connections for proper torque at least once a year. This is especially important if the battery is subjected to vibration.
The connectors and terminal screws should be coated with a thin layer of anti-corrosion grease or petroleum jelly.
