Page 24 - PS Battery Guide May 18
P. 24
Battery guide For PowerSpout
Allow for easy access (flooded batteries especially)
Flooded lead acid (FLA) batteries need to be inspected and topped up frequently,
so it's important to allow easy access with good headroom for checking levels
and reading specific gravity etc. Beware of mounting batteries on shelves that
are too close together so that there is no room above the cell caps to work.
Provide ventilation
Again this applies primarily to FLA batteries that will routinely produce
hydrogen gas, but it may apply to other types during a malfunction of the system.
Hydrogen has very low density so it tends to rise and find its way out of vents at
the highest point. Take care not to trap rising hydrogen in pockets above the
vent holes. Provide vents also below the level of the battery tops for air to enter
the enclosure.
Maintain even temperature
Batteries work best at around 20 degrees C. Higher temperatures will shorten
the battery's life. Lower temperatures reduce performance and efficiency. An
insulated enclosure may be helpful in very cold climates, but consider the fact
that batteries generate some heat when charging. Insulation may result in
excessive temperature rise, especially in summer.
It is important that all of the cells should be at the same temperature. Differences
in temperature will cause differences in charge/discharge behaviour that will
unbalance the cells.
Keep out unwanted visitors
The battery enclosure should prevent unauthorised access; protect the batteries
from the environment and vermin. There are many hazards associated with
batteries, so you would not want children to play with them for example, or
someone to carelessly pile tools on top of them. Insects and vermin can cause
damage that may lead to danger by removing insulation or blocking ventilation.
Safety clothing
Minimum safety clothing includes:
Plastic apron over overalls
Rubber gloves
Eye protection
Boots
Eye wash on hand
© 2018 EcoInnovation Ltd (NZ) Page 24
Last reviewed 19/6/18
