SECTION 4 - STORAGE
4.1 General
Do not store batteries outside, exposed to the elements.
Store indoors in a cool, dry location. Do not store
batteries in temperatures over 30ºC. The recommended
storage temperature is 20ºC or less. Do not stack pallets
or allow any other material to be stored on top of the
pallets or possible battery damage may occur. Do not
store where the possibility of metallic objects falling on
the battery may occur.
4.2 Short Term Storage
If the batteries are to be stored for 6 months or less at
20ºC, before being put into service, nothing need be
done at this time. If the batteries are to be stored for
longer than 6 months, at temperatures greater than
20ºC, or installation is delayed beyond expected time, a
storage charge may be required. A storage charge is an
equalization charge applied to a battery that is stored in
open circuit (not float charging) condition.
See Section 6.5 for details.
If the storage temperature is 20ºC or less, CELLYTE 6-
12TLA Bloc batteries must be charged at least every 6
months while in storage. For every 8ºC increase above
20ºC, the storage time between charges is cut in half.
Therefore at 28ºC the maximum storage time is 3
months. At 25ºC the maximum storage time would be 4
to 5 months..
Storage of batteries beyond the recommended
temperatures or storage time, without charging, can
result in loss of capacity, cell shorting and loss of float
life. It can also void the battery's warranty. Keep careful
records of battery storage time and handling.
SECTION 5 - GENERAL INSTALLATION PROCEDURES
CAUTION: Before attempting to install CELLYTE 6-
12TLA Bloc batteries study this section and the
section on safety thoroughly. Failure to do so could
result in personal injury and battery or equipment
damage.
5.1 Battery Location
5.1.1 Temperature
Battery location is very important in determining life and
performance of the battery. The ideal environment would
be a dry, indoors, temperature regulated area. The ideal
operational temperature is 20ºC. Operation at
temperatures below this will result in a loss of battery
performance and may result in a larger, more costly
battery being needed. Operation at temperatures above
20ºC will result in loss of battery operation life. For every
8ºC rise in battery temperature above 20 ºC, the life of
the battery will be cut in half. For example, the
CELLYTE 6-12TLA Bloc battery is designed for a 10
year float service life at 20ºC. If the battery were to be
continuously operated at 28ºC, the life expectancy would
be halved.
5.1.2 Temperature Variation
Maintaining temperature balance across the string is
very important for maximum battery life. The difference
between the maximum and minimum block temperature
in a series string can be no more than 3ºC. Excessive
temperature variation will result in the need for
equalization and will shorten battery life.
Sources of battery temperature variation can be
placement of the battery system near a heat source such
as radiators, power equipment, windows or heating
vents. Air conditioning vents can also cause temperature
variations. It is recommended that the battery location
be designed, engineered and monitored to minimize
temperature variations.
5.1.3 Ventilation
Proper ventilation of CELLYTE 6-12TLA Bloc batteries
is important for two reasons :
(1) to minimize battery temperature variations
and
(2) to minimize build up of potentially explosive
hydrogen gas.
5.1.3.1 Ventilation & Battery Temperature Variation
Recombinant batteries such as CELLYTE 6-12TLA Bloc
batteries, give off a small amount of heat during charging
and float operations. Proper ventilation is important to
remove this heat and to prevent temperature differences
from arising in the string. If the batteries are installed in
a cabinet, it should be designed to allow unobstructed air
circulation and prevent temperature build-up. Use angle
iron support rails instead of shelves. If the batteries are
on racks, sufficient air circulation should be present to
prevent temperature-layering effects. In an improperly
designed room, there can easily be a 5ºC difference in
temperature between the floor and the ceiling. If this
difference exists in a series string, it will result in a need
for equalization and in reduced battery life.
5.1.3.2 Ventilation and Gassing
As noted, lead acid batteries emit small amounts of gas
during normal charging and floating. The gas
composition while on float is approximately 80% by
volume hydrogen with the remainder being oxygen.
CAUTION:Hydrogen gas can be explosive. Never
install batteries in an airtight enclosure. Ventilation
must be provided to remove this hydrogen gas.
Allow about 1 litre per hour per battery of air
exchange to prevent hydrogen accumulation.
NOTE: In most cases, the amount of air circulation
required for battery cooling and temperature variation
maintenance will far exceed the amount of air circulation
required to prevent gas build-up. However, ensure some
air exchange is present in the ventilation.
5.1.4 Floor Loading
Before installing the batteries, it should be
ascertained that the floor has the capability to support
the weight of the battery, rack or cabinet and related
equipment. The total system weight will be the sum
of the batteries, rack or cabinet plus 5% for the
battery connectors. It is the responsibilityof the installer
to ensure adequate floor load carrying capabilities.
5.2 Seismic Considerations.
