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level. When even more current is drawn, the battery must supply this which results in a
declining battery voltage. At a certain battery voltage level, the charger jumps back to the
Bulk stage and will finalize a complete charging process again, once the battery load
consumption has dropped below the charger's maximum output current level.
The fourth stage called “Pulse”, will perform a short refresh charge of approximately 1 hour
each 7 days while the charger operates in the Float stage. This will keep the battery in
optimal condition while prolonging it's lifetime. The battery can remain connected to the
activated charger continuously, without risk of overcharging.
When the battery temperature sensor is installed, the charger automatically compensates
the charge voltages against battery temperature. This means that the charge voltages are
slightly increased at lower temperatures and decreased at higher temperatures (-30mV/°C
at 12V chargers and -60mV/°C at 24V chargers). This way, overcharging is prevented
which prolongs your battery's lifetime.
When the standard selectable charging programs do not satisfy your requirements, or
when different voltage- and current levels are needed, you can edit or create your own
charge programs using TBS Dashboard. Up to 8 different stages can be linked together and
all individual stages can be configured extensively.
5.2 Equalizing a flooded battery
If you are using a flooded lead acid battery, an occasional equalization charge cycle may
be recommended by the manufacturer. This might also be true when the flooded battery
has been very deeply discharged or often charged inadequately. During equalization, the
battery will be charged up to 15.5V (or 31V for 24V models) at a reduced output current
level. Before starting an equalization charge cycle, the following caution statements must
be read carefully :
!
CAUTION
Equalization should only be performed on a flooded (wet) lead acid battery. Therefore the
Powersine Combi only allows equalization when the battery type DIP switches are set to
Flooded. Other battery types like GEL or AGM will be damaged by this process.
Always follow the battery manufacturer's instructions when equalizing flooded batteries.
During equalization, the battery generates explosive gasses. Follow all the battery safety
precautions enclosed with your Powersine Combi. Ventilate the area around the battery
sufficiently and ensure that there are no sources of flames or sparks in the vicinity.
Disconnect all loads connected to the battery during equalization. The voltage applied to
the battery during this process may be above safe levels for some loads.
The Powersine Combi cannot automatically determine when to stop the equalization of a
battery. The user must monitor the battery’s specific gravity throughout this process to
determine the end of the equalization cycle. The internal 2 hours time-out timer of your