C&D Technologies DCS Series Installation And Operation Procedures
Text of the manual
FOLLOW MANUFACTURER’S PUBLISHED INSTRUCTIONS
WHEN INSTALLING, CHARGING AND SERVICING BATTERIES
For additional information: www.cdtechno.com
For Technical/Warranty Assistance, contact:
C&D Technologies, Inc.
200 Precision Drive, Suite 150
Horsham, PA 19044
+1 800-543-8630 or +1 717-553-7001
Fax +1 215-619-7899
Before handling cells or storing cell for future installation take time to read this manual. It contains
information that could avoid irreparable damage to the battery and/or void product warranty.
The purpose of this manual is to inform installers how to receive, install and maintain
C&D Technologies® Deep Cycle Series (DCS) batteries for use in electric vehicle (EV) applications.
Battery Description:
The valve regulated lead acid (VRLA) battery is a minimal maintenance system utilizing an oxygen
recombination cycle to minimize gassing and eliminate electrolyte maintenance. The dilute sulfuric
acid electrolyte is immobilized by absorbent glass mat (AGM) separators. Each of the 2 volts direct
current (VDC) cells (6 cells per unit) in each unit has a unique self-resealing one-way valve to
relieve any excess pressure generated during overcharging conditions.
I. Safety
Installation and servicing of batteries should be performed or supervised by personnel
knowledgeable of lead acid batteries standard safety practices including appropriate personal and
equipment safety precautions. Additional information on safety and environmental aspects of this
product are available on the L84 Safety Data Sheet (SDS) at www.cdtechno.com.
Electrical Hazards
Battery systems present a risk of electrical shock and high short circuit current. Remove
any personal metal objects (e.g. watches and rings), use properly insulated tools, and wear
eye protection and rubber gloves. Observe circuit polarities, use a voltmeter to check
potentials before making connections and do not make or break live circuits without
following all proper safety precautions.
Disposal
Lead acid batteries are to be recycled. VRLA batteries contain lead and immobilized dilute
sulfuric acid. Dispose of in accordance with federal, state and local regulations. Do not
dispose of in a landfill, lake or other unauthorized location. For assistance contact C&D
Technologies at www.cdtechno.com.
Chemical Hazards
Any liquid emission from a battery may be electrolyte, which contains dilute sulfuric acid.
This liquid is harmful to the skin and eyes, is electrically conductive and is corrosive. If
electrolyte contacts the skin, wash immediately and thoroughly. If electrolyte enters the
eyes, promptly flush eyes with water and seek medical attention. Neutralize spilled
electrolyte with a solution of 1 lb. bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) to 1 gallon of water.
Fire, Explosion and Heat Hazards
Batteries can contain an explosive mixture of hydrogen gas, which can vent under
overcharging conditions. Do not smoke or cause sparks in the vicinity of the battery. Do not
install and charge batteries in a sealed container. Mount the individual batteries with a
minimum of 0.5'' between units. If contained, assure the container has adequate
ventilation to prevent accumulation of potentially explosive vented gas. Refer to the
current issue of the National Electric Code (NEC) and other applicable building codes.
Caution
Do not attempt to remove battery vents or add water as this presents a safety hazard and
voids the warranty. Wash hands after any contact with the battery lead terminals.
II. Receiving Instructions
Upon receipt, inspect the batteries for physical damage to the containers and terminals. If found, a
claim must be filed with the carrier within ten (10) days. Also check the packing slip to make sure all
material has arrived.
The batteries are shipped fully charged. Open Circuit Voltage (OCV) measurements should not be
below 12.48 volts per 12-volt unit.
III. Storage Instructions
Store batteries in a clean, dry, cool (20°F – 90°F / -6°C – 32°C) area away from radiant heat sources.
Recharge DCS batteries in storage at least every six (6) months or before their OCV declines to 12.48
VDC. Follow instructions as outlined in Section VI. Freshening Charge.
IV. Freshening Charge
Batteries that are stored longer than the allowable time, or where the OCV is less than 12.48V
require freshening charge prior to installation. Recommended freshening charge as follows:
Constant Voltage: Charge at 14.40 V/battery for 24 hours. Batteries may be connected in
series. Multiply the number of series connected batteries by 14.40V to obtain the overall
circuit voltage.
V. Installation Guidelines
Installation of C&D® DCS batteries into electric vehicles will depend on specific vehicle designs and
processes, which are developed by the vehicle manufacturer. Following are guidelines that should be
followed for any installation:
1. Short Circuit Protection: All tools and equipment must be properly designed and insulated to
prevent short circuiting the battery terminals.
2. Lifting and Handling: The batteries must not be lifted by the terminals. If possible, the battery
should be lifted from the base. If the battery is lifted by side compression all measures must
be taken to make sure that the plastic container is not damaged from over compression.
3. Battery compartment: The battery compartment must allow gases to escape to the
atmosphere, sealed containers must be avoided. The compartment must be designed and
located to avoid high temperatures (see section VI. Application Information for temperature
limitations).
4. Replacement: The battery installation must allow for replacement of the battery under field
conditions.
5. Voltage: Check battery voltage prior to installation. Voltage must be above 12.48 VDC.
6. Connections: Torque according to specifications on product labeling.
Please contact C&D Technologies with any questions or concerns regarding battery compartment design
or installation/removal processes.
VI. Application Information
Each electrical vehicle design will have different charging parameters. The following are charging
and environmental limits:
Specification
Minimum
Typical
Maximum
Nominal Operating Voltage Range
9V
12V
16V
Functional Operating Voltage
7.2V
16.7V
Recharge
Varies**
104-108%
110%
Operating Temperature – Normal
-4°F (-20°C)
140°F (60°C)
Operating Temperature – Extreme
-40°F (-40°C)
185°F (85°C)*
*Severe impact to life of battery
**See C&D for PSOC applications
The following are recommended voltage compensations based on temperature:
Charge Voltage
Voltage
Temp °C (°F)
14.63
-20 (-4)
14.40
25 (77)
14.40
35 (95)
14.33
50 (122)
• Charge: constant 14.4v
• Temp compensation = -0.005V/C per Deg C
• 25°C (77°F) < Temp compensation > 35°C (95°F)
• 25°C (77°F) > no Temp compensation < 35°C (95°F)
• -20°C (-4°F) < no Temp compensation > 50°C (122°F)
Float Charge
Voltage
Temp °C (°F)
13.73
-40 (-40)
13.73
-20 (-4)
13.50
25 (77)
13.50
35 (95)
13.43
50 (122)
13.43
60 (140)
• Float: constant 13.50v recommended. Can be 13.50-13.80 at 25°C (77°F)
• Temp compensation = -0.005V/C per Deg C
• 25°C (77°F) < Temp compensation > 35°C (95°F)
• 25°C (77°F) > no Temp compensation < 35°C (95°F)
• -20°C (-4°F)< no Temp compensation > 50°C (122°F)
14.30
14.35
14.40
14.45
14.50
14.55
14.60
14.65
-40
-20
25
35
50
60
Voltage
Temperature (DegC)
Charge Voltage vs Temp
VII. Periodic Maintenance
These VRLA batteries are maintenance free with respect to the electrolyte. However, the charging
voltage, temperature, performance, and connection resistances must be monitored, and any
necessary corrective actions taken if irregular values are observed to assure reliable standby
power when required. All EV self-diagnostic testing parameters must be reviewed and approved by C&D
Technologies as compliant with the warranty. C&D recommends that all connections be checked for proper
torque on a minimum annual basis using calibrated equipment.
VIII. Recycling
C&D® DCS batteries must be recycled after replacement. C&D Technologies has designated
approved recycling locations for proper handling. Disposal of lead-acid batteries by other means
may violate state and federal law. Please contact C&D Technologies for additional information.
RS02252/1220/CD