The sealed maintenance-free battery is designed with the latest fully sealed structure and modern production techniques from the 1990s. It delivers high performance, long life, pollution-free operation, and is both safe and reliable. Unlike traditional batteries, it requires no regular maintenance or addition of distilled water, making it ideal for a variety of applications.
There are four main types of conventional storage batteries: standard batteries, dry-charged batteries, wet-charged batteries, and maintenance-free batteries. Each has its own unique characteristics and usage scenarios.
Standard batteries use lead oxide and lead plates, with sulfuric acid as the electrolyte. They are known for their stable voltage and low cost, but they have limited energy density, a short lifespan, and require frequent maintenance.
Dry-charged batteries are stored in a completely dry state and can retain their charge for up to two years. When ready to use, simply add the electrolyte and let it sit for 20–30 minutes before use.
Wet-charged batteries come pre-charged with a small amount of electrolyte, while most of it is stored in the separator and plates. This makes them ready for immediate use.
Maintenance-free batteries, as the name suggests, require minimal maintenance. They are designed to minimize electrolyte loss and do not need additional distilled water during their lifetime. These batteries also offer better resistance to shocks, high temperatures, and have a smaller self-discharge rate. Their lifespan is typically twice that of standard batteries. There are two types available on the market: one that comes pre-charged and sealed, requiring no further maintenance, and another that allows for occasional water top-ups.
When it comes to charging, maintenance-free batteries can be recharged using similar methods to standard batteries. However, it's important to limit the voltage per cell to 2.3–2.4V and use a lower charging current (less than 5A) to avoid overheating or damage. Fast charging is not recommended, as it could lead to dangerous situations such as explosions.
Proper maintenance of a battery includes checking the mounting bolts, ensuring terminals are secure and free from oxidation, avoiding direct short-circuit tests, and keeping the vent holes clear. Regular checks for corrosion around the terminals and proper alignment of battery capacity when used in series are also essential.
In a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) system, the battery serves as the energy storage device. During normal power supply, it stores energy through the charging circuit. When the power fails, it releases the stored energy to keep the system running without interruption.
UPS systems typically use lead-acid batteries, including models like HS (high-efficiency), CS (covered), and M (sealed). Sealed lead-acid batteries are the most common due to their low maintenance requirements and advanced cathode absorption technology, which minimizes water loss and extends maintenance intervals.
For maintenance-free battery repair, the process involves checking the battery’s condition, measuring open circuit voltage, and assessing whether it needs water or recharging. If the battery becomes hot during charging, it may indicate plate softening, which can sometimes be repaired. A full charge followed by a capacity test is essential to determine the battery’s health.
During testing, the voltage of each individual cell should be measured accurately. If any cell shows a voltage below 1.5 volts, it may indicate a broken grid, which cannot be repaired. Proper watering and recharging are necessary steps, especially after deep discharges.
After repairs, hydration charging is crucial to restore the battery’s performance. The battery should be charged for at least 24 hours, depending on its size. If the capacity does not meet expectations, further repairs may be needed. However, if there is no improvement, it may be time to replace the battery.
In summary, maintaining and repairing a maintenance-free battery requires careful attention to charging procedures, regular inspections, and proper handling to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
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