User Manual

20
4. Measure and record the specific gravity of each cell in the battery bank
and temperature of a test cell. If the temperature rises above 46ºC (115ºF)
and approaches 52ºC (125ºF), terminate the equalization cycle. You may
need to give the batteries a chance to cool off and attempt the cycle again.
Check individual cell temperatures using an IR temp sensor to isolate
possible damaged cells.
5. If cells are severely sulfated, it may take several hours for the specific
gravity to rise.
6. Once the specific gravity begins to rise, the bank voltage will most likely
drop, or the charging current will increase. The charging current may need
to be lowered if temperature approaches 46ºC (115ºF). If the charge
controller has been bypassed, it should now be used or put back in line.
7. Continue to measure specific gravity until 1.265 is reached.
8. Charge the battery bank for another 2 to 3 hours, adding distilled water
as required to maintain the electrolyte above the plates.
9. Allow bank to cool - check and record the specific gravity of each cell.
The gravities should be 1.265 ± 0.005 or lower. Check the cell electrolyte
levels and add water if necessary.
It is recommended that a specific gravity reading of one pilot cell is measured and
recorded on a regular basis when it is thought that the bank is fully charged. The
measurement should be compared to previous readings. If the measurement is lower
than the previous reading, a longer absorption time and/or higher voltage setting
should be used. The longer the absorption time and the higher the bulk voltage,
the more water will be consumed but less equalization will be required.
NOTE: The specific gravity should rise as the cells use water. Look for
trends in the specific gravity over a period of time and make small adjustments
as necessary.