Battery Power - Spring 2015 - (Page 14)

Feature Extending Battery Life A Routine Maintenance Schedule Can Dramatically Improve the Life of Flooded Lead-Acid Batteries Fred Wehmeyer, Senior Vice President of Engineering US Battery Manufacturing Businesses that use flooded lead-acid batteries for a variety of applications already know the importance of charging and adding water for optimum performance. Flooded lead-acid batteries are still the most cost effective means to power a variety of vehicles such as golf cars, platforms, cranes and more, but are also great for storing power used in off-grid and partial grid applications. Although these batteries are cost effective, anyone who has had to purchase a new set of them knows how expensive that can be. By making the batteries last longer, users can save a significant amount of money and reduce annual operating costs. The best way to extend the service life of flooded lead-acid batteries is to create a routine maintenance schedule. Charging, watering and performing an equalization charge are all critical procedures that should be performed on a routine basis. By following these tips, you'll ensure that the procedures are done correctly and that the service life of your flooded lead-acid batteries is maximized. Safety First: Be sure to wear gloves, eye protection and work in a well ventilated area. Turn off the battery charger and any electrical loads when servicing the batteries. Check Vent Caps: Open the battery compartment of the vehicle. Many times the batteries are hard to access and the vent caps may not have been reinstalled properly after watering. Make a visual inspection to ensure the vent caps on top of the batteries are properly seated. The vent caps contain spark arrestors to help prevent ignition of gases inside the batteries. Always keep them in place except during watering and specific gravity measurements. Clean The Terminals: If you spot corroded terminals, use a solution of baking soda and water to neutralize any stray acid deposits. When brushing the terminals, use a wire brush with a wooden or plastic handle to prevent accidental arcing. Then rinse the area with water and dry with a clean cloth. Do not allow any of the solution to enter the cells of the battery. Check Connections: Always check the terminal connections to ensure they are tight but do not overtighten them. Recommended terminal torque is 100 inch-pounds or just 15 to 18 pounds on the end of a 6 inch wrench. Use only insulated tools or wrap them with electrical tape to prevent accidental arcing. Follow up with a corrosion inhibitor or silicone spray on the terminals to resist corrosion. Check Electrolyte Levels: Some electrolyte is lost during each charge cycle, so it's important to make sure the electrolyte is at the proper level; about 1/4 inch below the bottom of the fill-well. Check it every two to four weeks depending on the amount of use. Add Water: Flooded lead-acid batteries will always need water. Use these watering techniques to obtain the best results: 1. Always charge the battery before watering but visually verify the electrolyte level is above the plates before charging. 14 Battery Power * Spring 2015 www.BatteryPowerOnline.com http://www.BatteryPowerOnline.com

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Battery Power - Spring 2015

Battery Power - Spring 2015
Batteries: An Integrated Solution
Preventing Counterfeiting: Challenges and Selection Criteria for An Ideal Authentication Solution
Extending Battery Life
Batter Management with an Intelligent Battery Sensor is Vital to The Success of Future Automotive Designs
Batteries
ICs & Semiconductors
Materials
Testing & Monitoring
Chargers
Components
Conference Preview: Critical Power 2015
Research & Development
Industry News
Application Profile
Calendar of Events
Marketplace

Battery Power - Spring 2015