Alpha Technologies AlphaCell OPzS - Manual (Page 22)

OPzS-BATTERY 22
Open crate, remove any packaging material from the top of the batteries and vacuum the tops of
the cells to remove any dust or other debris.
Remove the “Last Charged Date” stickers and the cell terminal caps.
Perform open circuit voltage check on each cell terminal and record data.
Wipe off all NO-OX grease on terminals with cloth dampened with distilled water and check each
terminal for visible signs of corrosion. If corrosion is present clean the corroded terminals with
solution of baking soda solution one pound to 1 gallon of distilled water, being careful not to spill
solution in the vent openings.
Using wire leads, connect cells in series for charging. When connections are complete check
for proper string voltage and record data. Remove shipping vent caps and replace with fl ame
arresting vent plugs on all cells. Before switching on the charger, ensure that shipping vent plugs
are removed and fl ame arrestors are installed.
Connect battery string to charger and monitor charge rate to ensure the ampere rate does not
exceed the 10-hour discharge rate.
Equalize charge at a voltage of 2.35VPC with the ampere rate not to exceed the 10-hour
discharge rate and charge for 8 hours at this constant voltage. 1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
10.0 Freshening Charge
Refresh charging only applies to wet batteries in storage. Dry batteries may be stored for up to 2
years as long as environmental requirements are met.
Batteries lose some initial charge during shipment and storage. A fi lled and charged cell should be
recharged every 90 days to prevent failure. Use the date of battery shipment to determine freshening
charge requirements.
CAUTION!
Do not attempt a freshening charge unless the electrolyte levels are near the low level line on open
circuit. When necessary, remove electrolyte to that level from cells with high levels.
Monitor cell temperatures during equalize and if electrolyte temperature reaches 113ºF (45ºC)
then stop the charge for 1 hour. After temperature returns to acceptable level then re-commence
equalize charge by adjusting current limit to half the initial rate for the remainder of the 8-hour
charge time.
CAUTION!
After completion of the 8-hour equalize charge, commence fl oat charge at a voltage of 2.25VPC.
After 16-hour fl oat charge, cell voltage measurements should be taken and when three
successive hourly measurements are the same, adequate charge has been provided and the
charge may be terminated.
After charging, disconnect batteries from the charger. During the 2-3 hour waiting period, remove
wire leads and fl ame-arresting vent plugs, and replace with shipping vent caps. At the end of the
waiting period, verify all cells are charged to a minimum voltage of 2.20VPC and a specifi c gravity
(test with hydrometer) of 1.24 ± 0.01 Kg/liter. Record cell voltage and specifi c gravity data.
Clean terminals as necessary with baking soda and distilled water solution using a fi rm fi ber
bristle brush.
Apply NO-OX grease to all terminals.
Inspect battery cell covers, vent openings etc. for battery acid and clean/neutralize as necessary.
Re-install shipping caps onto terminals for storage and/or shipping.
Apply new “Last Charged Date” stickers and replace any packaging material then re-seal crates. 8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.