Alpha Technologies AlphaCell HP - Manual (Page 25)

25 745-680-C5-002, Rev. A
5.0 Troubleshooting, continued
Problem with Symptom Possible Causes Possible Result Corrective Actions
DC Voltage
Checks
System float voltage >
2.3V/C average 77°F
(25°C)
Charger output set
incorrectly
Overcharging causes
excessive gassing and
drying out of electrolyte
and contributes to potential
thermal runaway.
Reset the charger output
voltage to recommended
value.
System float voltage <
2.25V/C average 77°F
(25°C)
Charger output set
incorrectly
Undercharging results in
gradual loss of operating
time and capacity with
successive discharge cycles.
If persistant, an irreversible
level of lead sulfate develops
on the plates resulting in a
permanent capacity loss
• Reset the charger
output voltage to
recommended value.
• Equalize battery system
from 48 to 72 hours
and perform capacity
test. If capacity loss is
permanent, replace the
total battery system.
Individual battery float
voltage > 13.3 Vdc
• Potentially the
individual battery has
shorted cell
• Verify with impedance
or conductance check
Reduced operating time
under load. Increased float
current. Heating of cell during
discharge. Contributes to
potential thermal runaway.
Replace individual battery.
Individual battery float
voltage 14.5 Vdc for
6 cell
Potentially open cells in
individual battery. Confirm
by checking for zero float
current or check for very
high impedance of the
battery.
Failure to support load. Could
result in an internal arc, could
ignite gasses within the cell.
Replace individual battery.
DC voltage measured
between battery system
output terminals and
ground (rack) or a
ground fault indicated
by automatic monitoring
equipment.
Damaged container allow-
ing electrolyte to wick out
to grounded surface (rack).
• Personnel shock hazard
resulting in serious
injury or electrocution.
• Potential burning of
container at damaged
area or battery fire.
Determine the source of
ground fault and replace
battery.
Temperature
Checks
Elevated room tem-
perature
Lack of adequate air condi-
tioning or ventilation
Reduced battery life
Cool room or accept reduced
battery life
Elevated battery temp.
• Elevated room temp.
• Inadequate cabinet
ventilation
• Discharge - charge
cycle
• Reduced battery life
• Reduced life and
potential thermal
runaway
• Normal if not exceeding
18°F increase
• Improve room air
conditioning
• Improve cabinet
ventilation
• Limit recharge current
High current recharge
• High charging voltage
• Shorted cells
Normal if not exceeding
18F/10C increase over
ambient
• Limit recharge current
• Reduce within
specifications
• Replace shorted cells
and evaluate total string.
Table 2, Troubleshooting, continued