3
When electrolyte is sourced locally, we recommend that an additional 10% is purchased to cover any loss or
spillage during handling and filling.
For the quantity of electrolyte needed, please refer to cell technical data given under section 13.0. Always check
the specific gravity of the electrolyte before filling the cells. Minor adjustments may be made by adding water to
lower the specific gravity or by adding acid to raise the specific gravity.
5.1 Filling Dry Cells
Always use glass or plastic containers and funnels to fill the cells. Never use metallic materials;
electrolyte may corrode them or react on contact. Fill the cells to the “MAX” line and wait to allow
the acid to soak into separators and plates.
After approximately 3 hours the electrolyte level will drop due to the absorption. Top to the “MAX”
line again.
The quantity of electrolyte required to fill each cell is given in section 13.0.
Always fill the cells with electrolyte after installation on battery racks.
CELLS FILLED ON SITE MUST BE GIVEN AN INITIAL CHARGE AS SOON AS
POSSIBLE. DO NOT STORE FILLED CELLS FOR MORE THAN 18 HOURS WITHOUT
CHARGING THEM.
6.0 Battery Room
The battery room must be dry, clean and free of vibration.
The room must be properly sized to enable installation, inspection, topping-up and maintenance. It must also be
properly ventilated, especially during charge. Its temperature should be as moderate as climate allows, preferably
between 50°F (10°C) and 80°F (27°C). The battery will give its best performance when working within the range
of 68°F (20°C) to 77°F (25°C), but will function at temperatures between 0°F (-18°C) and 125°F (52°C). High
temperatures increase the performance but reduce battery life, while low temperatures reduce the
performance.
The entry doors of battery room must be provided with warning signs banning smoking, sparks and open flames.
The batteries should be installed on suitable racks properly sized in loading capacity and dimensions. The layout
must enable easy access to all cells.
Racks can be made of wood, fiberglass or steel with acid-proof coating. If steel racks are used they must be
equipped with rubber or plastic insulators to avoid contact between the battery and the metal.
The rack location and ventilation system should be such that the maximum temperature differential between cells
does not exceed 5°F (3°C).
BATTERY ROOMS MUST COMPLY WITH ALL FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL CODES AND
ORDINANCES IN EFFECT AT THE TIME OF INSTALLATION.
7.0 Installation
Before installing the cells, clean and dry all parts. In particular, clean and dry lids and jars. Remove the
protective covers from the terminal posts and clean them with a soft, clean cloth. If spilled acid is present, use a
rag dampened in a water and baking soda solution to remove acid from the post bodies. If spilled acid is found in
the post inserts, soak the part with this solution and then dry. Do not let the solution get into the cells.
If the terminal posts surface is slightly white, lightly abrade it with a fine grit abrasive paper and remove oxidation.
Do not use a wire brush and be especially careful not to break through the lead plating. Wipe off any dust and
protect the post body with a thin coating of no-oxide grease.
