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Nickel-Cadmium single cell batteries

Nickel-Cadmium single cell batteries
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Nickel-Cadmium single cell batteries

Product catalog summary
Introduction
The manual introduces the Alcad pocket plate nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd) battery, emphasizing its reliability, long lifespan, and low maintenance needs, making it suitable for applications where other battery systems may not suffice.
Benefits of the Alcad Pocket Plate Ni-Cd Battery
  • Complete Reliability: Avoids sudden failures typical in lead-acid batteries.
  • Long Cycle Life: Performs well even with full discharge.
  • Exceptionally Long Lifetime: Can last over 20 years, even in high temperatures.
  • Low Maintenance: Minimal water topping-up required.
  • Wide Operating Temperature Range: Functions from -20°C to +50°C, tolerating extremes from -50°C to +70°C.
  • Fast Recharge: Capable of quick recharging.
  • Resistance to Abuse: Withstands harsh conditions and electrical misuse.
  • Simple Installation: Easy setup with no corrosive emissions.
  • Extended Storage: Can be stored for years when discharged.
  • Environmentally Safe: Made from recyclable materials.
  • Low Life-Cycle Cost: Cost-effective due to longevity and low maintenance.
Electrochemistry of Ni-Cd Batteries
Ni-Cd batteries use nickel hydroxide and cadmium hydroxide as active materials, with a potassium hydroxide electrolyte that facilitates ion transfer without degrading, contributing to the battery's long life and resistance to abuse.
Construction Features
  • Plate Assembly: Uses steel strips for strength and conductivity.
  • Separation: Plastic grids ensure good electrolyte circulation.
  • Electrolyte: Optimized for performance and temperature range.
  • Terminal Pillars: Nickel-plated steel for durability.
  • Venting System: Includes a flame-arresting vent.
  • Cell Container: Made of durable polypropylene.
Battery Types and Applications
  • Type L: For long discharge periods with low current.
  • Type M: For mixed loads with moderate discharge times.
  • Type H: For high current, short duration discharges.
Applications include standby power for various industries and emergency systems.
Operating Features
Discusses capacity, cell voltage, internal resistance, temperature effects, and maintenance requirements.
Battery Sizing Principles
Guidelines for sizing batteries in standby applications, considering factors like voltage, discharge profile, and temperature.
Battery Charging
Details on charging methods, efficiency, and temperature effects.
Special Operating Factors
Addresses potential electrical and mechanical abuse.
Installation and Operating Instructions
Includes guidelines for receiving, storing, installing, and maintaining the battery.
Maintenance of Batteries in Service
Outlines procedures for cleanliness, topping-up, and capacity checks.
Disposal and Recycling
Emphasizes the importance of recycling and the processes involved.
Capacity and Cell Voltage
The capacity of nickel-cadmium batteries is measured in ampere-hours (Ah) and is defined by the IEC 60623 standard. The nominal cell voltage is 1.2 V, determined by the electrochemical potentials of nickel and cadmium in the presence of potassium hydroxide.
Internal Resistance and Temperature Effects
Internal resistance varies with temperature and state of charge, affecting battery performance. Guidelines are provided on how temperature impacts battery performance, with graphical representations for different cell types.
Short-Circuit Values and Open Circuit Loss
Short-circuit values are specified for different cell types, and the document explains the self-discharge characteristics of nickel-cadmium cells, which are influenced by temperature.
Cycling and Lifetime
The battery's ability to withstand various cycling behaviors is discussed, with the depth of discharge affecting the number of cycles. The document also compares the lifetime reduction of nickel-cadmium and lead-acid batteries with temperature increases.
Water Consumption and Gas Evolution
During charging, water is lost due to electrolysis, and the document provides calculations for water consumption and gas evolution, emphasizing the need for water replenishment.
Charging Methods
Various charging methods are discussed, including constant voltage and two-rate charging systems. Recommended charge and float voltages for different cell types are provided.
Charge Acceptance and Efficiency
Graphs illustrate typical recharge times for different cell types, and the document discusses charge efficiency, which depends on the state of charge and temperature.
Temperature Effects
As temperature increases, electrochemical activity rises, leading to increased current for the same floating voltage, which can result in higher water loss. Conversely, lower temperatures reduce current, risking insufficient charging. For standby applications, temperature compensation of charging voltage is generally unnecessary unless operating at high temperatures (above 35°C) or low temperatures (below 0°C), where adjustments are recommended.
Commissioning
A thorough initial charge is crucial for battery longevity, especially for discharged cells. A constant current charge supplying 200% of the cell's rated capacity is recommended.
Electrical Abuse
Nickel-cadmium batteries tolerate high ripple currents, unlike VRLA batteries, which can overheat with small ripple currents. Over-discharge should be avoided, but Alcad batteries can recover if recharged. Overcharging requires water replenishment but does not significantly affect battery life.
Mechanical Abuse
Alcad batteries are tested for shock and vibration resistance and are protected against external corrosion with durable materials and coatings.
Important Recommendations
Safety precautions include avoiding flames or sparks near batteries, wearing protective gear, and using insulated tools. Electrolyte contact requires immediate washing and medical attention if necessary.
Receiving and Storage
Batteries should be unpacked immediately upon arrival and stored in a dry, cool, and ventilated area. Empty and discharged cells can be stored for years, while filled and charged cells should not exceed 12 months of storage.
Installation
Batteries should be installed in a dry, clean environment with adequate ventilation to disperse gases. Proper spacing and access for maintenance are essential.
Ventilation
Ventilation is crucial during high-rate charging to prevent hydrogen gas accumulation. Calculations for ventilation requirements are provided to maintain safe hydrogen concentration levels.
Mounting
Ensure correct interconnection and polarity. Use corrosion-protected connectors and follow recommended torque settings for terminal bolts.
Electrolyte/Cell Oil
Check and adjust electrolyte levels as needed. Add cell oil after commissioning for cells filled on location.
Charging in Service
Recommended charging voltages vary based on operation type and temperature. High voltage increases recharging speed and efficiency.
Periodic Maintenance
Regular cleaning, electrolyte level checks, and voltage verification are necessary. High water consumption often indicates improper voltage settings.
Changing Electrolyte
Electrolyte replacement is rare but may be needed if carbonation occurs, using specified electrolyte types.
Cleanliness/Mechanical
Maintain cleanliness to prevent current leakage. Use water for cleaning and avoid solvents.
Maintenance of Batteries in Service
  • Vent and Terminal Maintenance: Ensure vents are tightly fitted and free from deposits. Terminals should be checked for tightness and protected against corrosion with neutral grease or anti-corrosion oil.
  • Topping-up: Regularly check electrolyte levels, ensuring they do not fall below the minimum mark. Use only approved distilled or deionized water for topping up. Excessive water consumption may indicate high voltage or temperature, while negligible consumption could suggest under-charging.
  • Capacity Check: Not part of routine maintenance but can be performed if needed. Follow a specific discharge and charge procedure to assess battery capacity.
  • Recommended Maintenance Procedure: Yearly checks include charge voltage settings, cell voltages, float current, and electrolyte levels. Every two years, clean cell lids and check torque values. Capacity checks should be done every five years or as required.
Disposal and Recycling
  • Alcad emphasizes environmental responsibility throughout the battery lifecycle, from design to recycling. Batteries should not be discarded as waste and must be recycled according to local regulations. Alcad provides a collection network for recycling spent batteries.
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Catalog excerpts

Nickel-Cadmium single cell batteries-1

table.main {} tr.row {} td.cell {} div.block {} div.paragraph {} .font0 { font:56.00pt "Franklin Gothic Medium", sans-serif; } ALCAD

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Nickel-Cadmium single cell batteries-2

table.main {} tr.row {} td.cell {} div.block {} div.paragraph {} .font0 { font:8.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font1 { font:17.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font2 { font:28.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font3 { font:40.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } ALCAD Single Cell Range Contents Introduction 3 7. Battery sizing principles Benefits of the Alcad pocket plate in stationary standby applications 15 Ni-Cd battery 4 7.1 The voltage window 15 2.1 Complte reliability 4 7.2 Discharge profile 15 2.2 Long cycle life 4 7.3 Temperature 15 2.3 Exceptionally long lifetime 4 7.4 State of charge or recharge time...

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Nickel-Cadmium single cell batteries-3

table.main {} tr.row {} td.cell {} div.block {} div.paragraph {} .font0 { font:5.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font1 { font:8.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font2 { font:17.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } Introduction The nickel-cadmium battery is the most reliable battery system available in the market today. Its unique features enable it to be used in applications and environments untenable for other widely available battery systems. It is not surprising, therefore, that the nickel-cadmium battery has become an obvious first choice for users looking for a reliable, long life, low maintenance system....

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Nickel-Cadmium single cell batteries-4

table.main {} tr.row {} td.cell {} div.block {} div.paragraph {} .font0 { font:5.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font1 { font:8.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font2 { font:11.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font3 { font:17.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } Benefits of the Alcad pocket plate Ni-Cd battery 2.1 Complte reliability The Alcad battery does not suffer from the sudden death failure associated with the lead acid battery (see section 4.1 Plate assembly). 2.2 Long cycle life The Alcad battery has a long cycle life even when the charge/discharge cycle involves 100% depth of discharge (see section 6.7...

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Nickel-Cadmium single cell batteries-5

table.main {} tr.row {} td.cell {} div.block {} div.paragraph {} .font0 { font:5.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font1 { font:8.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font2 { font:10.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font3 { font:11.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font4 { font:17.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } Electrochemistry of Ni-Cd batteries The nickel-cadmium battery uses nickel hydroxide as the active material for the positive plate, and cadmium hydroxide for the negative plate. The electrolyte is an aqueous solution of potassium hydroxide containing small quantities of lithium hydroxide to improve cycle life...

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Nickel-Cadmium single cell batteries-6

Motor- und Prozessdosierpumpen fr alle Leistungsbereiche 2012 table.main {} tr.row {} td.cell {} div.block {} div.paragraph {} .font0 { font:5.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font1 { font:6.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font2 { font:9.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font3 { font:14.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font4 { font:17.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font5 { font:19.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } Construction features of the pocket plate battery Connector cover _ In line with EN 50272-2 (safety) with IP2 level. Flame-arresting vent Terminal seal This is mechanically clipped and provides an excellent...

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Nickel-Cadmium single cell batteries-7

Motor- und Prozessdosierpumpen fr alle Leistungsbereiche 2012 table.main {} tr.row {} td.cell {} div.block {} div.paragraph {} .font0 { font:5.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font1 { font:8.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font2 { font:10.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } 4.1 Plate assembly The nickel-cadmium cell consists of two groups of plates, the positive containing nickel hydroxide and the negative containing cadmium hydroxide. The active materials of the Alcad pocket plate battery are retained in pockets formed from steel strips double-perforated by a patented process. These pockets are mechanically...

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Nickel-Cadmium single cell batteries-8

table.main {} tr.row {} td.cell {} div.block {} div.paragraph {} .font0 { font:5.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font1 { font:8.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font2 { font:11.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } 4.2 Sparation Sparation between plates is provided by injection molded plastic separator grids, integrating both plate edge insulation and plate separation. By providing a large spacing between the positive and negative plates and a generous quantity of electrolyte between plates, good electrolyte circulation and gas dissipation are provided, and there is no stratification of the electrolyte as found...

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Nickel-Cadmium single cell batteries-9

table.main {} tr.row {} td.cell {} div.block {} div.paragraph {} .font0 { font:5.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font1 { font:7.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font2 { font:8.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font3 { font:11.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font4 { font:17.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } Battery types and applications In order to provide an optimum solution for the wide range of battery applications which exist, the Alcad battery is constructed in three performance ranges. 5.1 Type L The L type is designed for applications where the battery is required to provide a reliable source of energy over...

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Nickel-Cadmium single cell batteries-10

table.main {} tr.row {} td.cell {} div.block {} div.paragraph {} .font0 { font:5.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font1 { font:8.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font2 { font:11.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font3 { font:17.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font4 { font:8.00pt "Lucida Sans Unicode", sans-serif; } Operating features 6.1 Capacity The nickel-cadmium battery capacity is rated in ampere-hours (Ah) and is the quantity of electricity at + 20°C (+ 68°F) which it can supply for a 5 hour discharge to 1.0 V after being fully charged for 7.5 hours at 0.2 C5 A. This figure conforms to the IEC 60623 standard....

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Nickel-Cadmium single cell batteries-11

table.main {} tr.row {} td.cell {} div.block {} div.paragraph {} .font0 { font:5.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font1 { font:6.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font2 { font:7.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font3 { font:8.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } .font4 { font:11.00pt "Arial", sans-serif; } 6.4 Effect of temprature on performance Variations in ambient temprature affect the performance of the cell and this needs to be taken into account when sizing the battery. Low temperature operation has the effect of reducing the performance, but the higher temperature characteristics are similar to those at normal...

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