[RE-wrenches] Testing new batteries

[Nick Soleil]

Hi Benn:
    Perhaps those batteries have just been sitting a little while, and need a 
recharge.  Generally speaking, if you find that the batteries test reading are a 
little low, they are probably just a little discharged.  After recharging the 
batteries, test them again.  If those readings are low, then contact the 
manufacturer with the data.  I have had great luck with battery manufacturers 
warranting their defective batteries in warranty.

 Nick Soleil
Project Manager
Advanced Alternative Energy Solutions, LLC
PO Box 657
Petaluma, CA 94953
Cell:   707-321-2937
Office: 707-789-9537
Fax:    707-769-9037




________________________________
From: benn kilburn <benn at daystarsolar.ca>
To: Wrenches <re-wrenches at lists.re-wrenches.org>
Sent: Thu, March 24, 2011 9:43:20 AM
Subject: [RE-wrenches] Testing new batteries

  I'm curious of others experiences with testing "new" batteries right from the 
mfgr, before putting them into service.  I'm not talking about load testing, i 
mean just basics...voltage, specific gravity and electrolyte level.

I recently received some batteries (24 x 2V) and before putting them to work i 
tested all the voltages, SG's and levels.  Voltages were all with-in 0.016 V 
(2.1-2.084).  The SG's were within 0.037 (1.281-1.244).  Yes, the one with the 
lowest SG also had the lowest V.  

What concerns me a bit more than the few cells with lower SG is the consistent 
low levels of electrolyte.  All cells were between 3/4" and 1-1/2" below full, 
which is 1/4" below the bottom of the vent well tube.... with one exception that 
was bang-on full.  Interestingly, the one full battery was the only one with a 
different date code than the rest. 

Should the various levels of electrolyte mentioned be acceptable when a battery 
is brand new, straight from the mfgr?  How bout the SG's?

I'm considering adding electrolyte from a local battery shop instead of 
distilled water to top up all the batteries.  Comments?

Very thankful for the wealth of knowledge and experience on this list,
benn

DayStar Renewable Energy Inc. 
benn at daystarsolar.ca
780-906-7807 
HAVE A SUNNY DAY 


      
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