STRYTEM ENERGY E Series Absolyte GP Batteries Instructions
- June 12, 2024
- STRYTEM ENERGY
Table of Contents
STRYTEM ENERGY E Series Absolyte GP Batteries
BASIC OPERATING AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS FOR ABSOLUTE BATTERIES IN RAILROAD SIGNAL SERVICE
CAUTION – READ THE ENTIRE OPERATING AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE PLACING BATTERIES IN SERVICE
STORAGE
- It is recommended that Absolute batteries be stored indoors in a cool (<25°C) dry location.
- The storage interval shall not exceed six (6) months unless the battery receives an equalized charge at the end of six (6) months and every six (6) months thereafter as long as it remains in storage. Elevated temperatures (>25°C) will result in higher rates of self-discharge.
CHARGING
- The recommended float voltage is 2.25 ± 0.02 VPC when using a non-temperature correcting charger.
- See the table below for equalized charge voltage and times.
| EQUALIZE CHARGE VPC | TIME IN HOURS |
|---|---|
| 2.30 | 24 |
| 2.35 | 12 |
When the charging current has tapered and stabilized (no further reduction for three hours), charge for the number of hours in the above table or until the lowest cell voltage ceases to rise. To determine the lowest cell, monitoring should be performed during the final 10% of the charge time.
Perform an equalizing charge:
- For batteries in storage. Refer to 1.2 above.
- At the time of equipment installation.
- When the float voltage of any cell is less than 2.18 VPC or when the float voltage of any individual cell is more than 0.05 volts from the average. It may also be used to recharge a battery in a minimum amount of time following an emergency discharge.
Temperature-corrected float voltages-If a temperature compensating charger is used, the minimum float voltage allowed is 2.20 VPC and the maximum float voltage is 2.35 VPC. Operating beyond these limits will reduce the design life of the Absolyte product. The standard temperature correcting value is 0.003 VPC for each degree variation from 77°F. This value is added to the recommended float voltage at 77°F for temperatures below 77°F and subtracted for temperatures above 77°F.
CONNECTION TORQUE – Torque all terminal and intercell connections to 100-inch lbs at least once per year.
INSPECTION/RECORDS
- An initial battery maintenance record should be generated at the time of installation. This should include battery make, model, and serial numbers, date of installation, initial cell voltages, charger type, and settings. A digital voltmeter may be required.
- Quarterly records should be maintained thereafter including cell voltages, charger settings, and date of measurements. Cell voltages should be taken while the battery is on a float in a fully charged condition.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
- Batteries contain sulfuric acid which can cause burns and another serious injury. In the event of contact with sulfuric acid, flush immediately and thoroughly with water. The use of safety goggles, rubber apron, and rubber gloves is recommended.
- Batteries can generate explosive gases, which when released, can explode and cause blindness and other serious injury. Keep sparks, flames, and smoking materials away from the battery area.
- Multi-cell systems attain high voltages, therefore, extreme caution must be exercised during the installation of a battery system. Interrupt the AC and DC circuits before working on batteries or charging equipment.