Multiquip MQP20IZ, MQP40IZ Battery System Charging Battery, Charging LowWater-loss Batteries

BATTERY SYSTEM — CHARGING BATTERY

Charging LowWater-loss Batteries

Before charging the battery, refer to page 11 for battery safety instructions.

Do not allow untrained personnel charge a battery until they have been thoroughly instructed in the step-by-step procedures of charging and all safety precautions.

Battery chargers operate automatically or should include a charge duration control of some type. This control is a timer which the operator sets.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions on the charger. If, when charging the battery, violent gassing or spewing of electrolyte occurs, or the battery case feels hot (125°F/52°C), cease charging to avoid damaging the battery.

Always turn the charger to the "Off" position (if not automatic) before connecting the leads to the battery. If there is any doubt about the charger being off, disconnect the charger from the power source.

If the battery does not indicate it is charged after the proper amount of charge time recommended, the charge should be repeated. If the battery is still uncharged after two charges, the battery should be replaced.

For best results, batteries should be charged while the electrolyte is at room temperature (55-85°F/13-30°C). A battery that is extremely cold or has remained in a completely discharged condition may not accept current for several hours after starting the charger.

Since age, capacity, state of charge, and type of batteries vary, time and attention must be given to batteries during any charging process.

If a battery is to be recharged overnight (16 hours), a timer or voltage controlled (16.0 volts) charger is recommended. If the charger does not have such controls, a 3 amp rate should be used for batteries of 80 minutes or less reserve capacity, and 5 amps for batteries with 80 to 125 minutes reserve capacity. Batters over 125 reserve minutes should be charged at the specified slow charge rate.

Battery Storage

Low water-loss batteries have excellent shelf life due to their low self-discharge rates. One of their major advantages is they normally can be installed without charging if good stock rotation and inventory controls are maintained.

The batteries must be kept in an upright position. It is possible for electrolyte to escape through the vents if the batteries are turned on their sides or top. Batteries should be stored in a cool, dry place. Storage above 80°F (26.7°C) increases self-discharge. If batteries are discharged, the electrolyte may freeze when subsequently stored below 20°F (-7°C). It is advantageous to store fully charged batteries at low temperatures, because the self-discharge rate drops as the temperature decreases.

Batteries in stock should be recharged when the open circuit voltage falls to 12.2 volts or when indicated by the built-in hydrometer as specified by the manufacturer.

PAGE 56 — INDUSTRIAL GENERATOR SETS — APPLICATION & INSTALLATION MANUAL — REV. #4 (09/07/07)