Alpha Technologies Industrial Ni-Cd Batteries Standard Range - Manual (Page 9)

EN-ALPHA-TMSR-001 (10/09) 9
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1.6 Distance plate
The distance plate operates as an additional stabilization to prevent any movement of the electrodes. It is an
additional feature for applications where vibrations are possible.
1.7 Cell cases
The cell cases are made from a translucent polypropylene or polystyrene, which ensures a visual control of
the electrolyte level. The exeptional sturdy Alpha cell cases provide a satisfactory service for the total lifetime
of the battery but also will have a superior fi nish at every stage. The lid and the container are welded or glued
together forming an integrative compound. All Alpha Ni-Cd cells have got a single cell design that prevents in the
greatest possible extend any leakage of the cell cases since they are made by injection molding out of one piece.
Therefore, the weld or glueseams of the cell cases and the lids lies over the electrolyte level. The Alpha single
cell design eliminates completely the risk of faulty welded seams on the sides and on the bottom of the cell cases.
Caused by the single cell design an economical replacement of faulty cells is possible, viz only the faulty cell can
be replaced. A special fl ame retardent material (acc. to standard UL 94 V0) is also available, which admittedly
brings along some impaired properties. By using this material a visual check of the electrolyte is no longer
possible.
1.8 Electrolyte
The electrolyte used in Alpha Ni-Cd batteries is a solution of potassium hydroxide and lithium hydroxide that
is optimized to give the best combination of performance, energy effi ciency and a wide temperature range of
use. The concentration of the standard electrolyte allows operations between - 30 °C and + 50 °C. For special
operations within very low temperatures a special high density electrolyte can be used. It is an important property
of the Alpha battery, and indeed all nickel-cadmium batteries, that the electrolyte does not change during charge
and discharge. It retains its ability to transfer ions between the cell plates, irrespective of the charge level. In most
applications the electrolyte will retain its effectiveness for the life of the battery and will never need replacing.
However, under certain conditions, such as extended use in high temperature situations, the electrolyte can
become carbonated. If this occurs the battery performance can be improved by replacing the electrolyte (see
“Maintenance and Handling Instructions”).
1.0 Alpha Ni-Cd pocket plate cell, continued