Lamar Technologies CA 1550 - Manual (Page 9)

3. OPERATING GUIDE - CHARGING
The constant-current charge method can however be used for reconditioning
SLAB’s. The current must be set low and the timer set to 12-18 hours. The battery
should be periodically monitored for overheat during reconditioning. When the battery
begins to accept charge current, it can be switched to constant-potential charging set
to 14.5 (12 volt battery) or 28.6 volts (24 volt battery).
3.2.4 NICKEL-CADMIUM BATTERIES
Nickel-cadmium batteries may be initially charged with constant potential set to
14.5 (12 volt battery) or 28.6 (24 volt battery). After the initial charge the batteries
could be topped with a low constant-current (usually C
per cell.
1
/10) charge to 1.55 volts
The nickel-cadmium can also be completely charged in the constant-current mode.
The current would be adjusted to a lower rate for topping. A low constant current
applied during a long time can also be used to eliminate fading, previously called the
“memory effect”, from nickel-cadmium batteries.
Refer to your manufacturer’s maintenance manual for the recommended
discharge times.
3.3 PREPARATION FOR CHARGING
Before starting charging the battery, read the component maintenance manual
(CMM) or the operating and maintenance manual (OMM) for the specific battery.
Ensure that the charge time and current or voltage from the battery manufacturer
are followed.
It is recommended that a visual inspection of the battery is carried out in
conjunction with testing and charging batteries. The charging, unless otherwise
specified in the manufacturer's CMM/OMM, shall be conducted at room ambient
temperature of 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C).
1.1.1 VERIFY END VOLTAGE
The end voltage (in all charge modes) can be verified by the following steps: 1)
turn unit power off; 2) disconnect any battery; 3) turn charge current to max; 4) turn
unit power on; and 5) verify the end voltages on the CA-1550 digital voltmeter (see
also Modify Constant Potential in section 3.5).
WARNING: Always turn the AC power switch off before
connecting or disconnecting a battery
NOTE: Once set, all settings are maintained and need not be
reset for duplicate charging
CA-1550 CHARGER / ANALYZER - OPERATING MANUAL V1.2 Page 7