[RE-wrenches] Testing new batteries

[Rob Shappell]

Hey Dana, it's EQ then top off.

 

Rob

 

From: re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Dana
Sent: Thursday, March 24, 2011 1:35 PM
To: 'RE-wrenches'
Subject: [RE-wrenches] Testing new batteries

 

HUP Solar One batteries recommend topping off the electrolyte and doing an
initial EQ cycle prior to use. We always check SG and voltage/cell on
arrival and to date never had any discrepancy on either.

 

Additionally we unbolt all connections, polish with a copper pipe wire brush
all connecting surfaces [with a respirator on] re-bolt, check voltage & SG,
then coat with Vaseline all connecting surfaces.

 

So, total we check volt per cell and SG twice. Considering that this bank
will be in place for 16-20 years it is a good place to start. Do it once and
do it correctly. This serves as a good baseline. 

 

I have mentioned this before but we only use a refractometer for checking
specific gravity anymore the accuracy is dead on and not subject to sticking
floats and curvature of the electrolyte in the hydrometer.  Refractometers
are $85-$100 each from a good plumbing wholesale house.

 

Dana Orzel

Great Solar Works, Inc

E - dana at solarwork.com

V - 970.626.5253

F - 970.626.4140

C - 970.209.4076

web - www.solarwork.com

 

"Responsible Technologies for Responsible People since 1988"

Do not ever believe anything, but seriously trust through action.

 

From: re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Nick Soleil
Sent: Thursday, March 24, 2011 11:20 AM
To: RE-wrenches
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Testing new batteries

 

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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