I. Battery self-discharge
During storage, batteries will inevitably experience some degree of self-discharge. A normal battery will lose 1% to 2% of its capacity for each day it is stored. Even a fully charged battery will lose approximately half its capacity after a month of storage.
(I) Why do batteries self-discharge?
The main cause of battery self-discharge is impurities on the plates, forming small, localized cells. These small cells then create a short circuit, leading to self-discharge. Additionally, the uneven density of the electrolyte on the upper and lower surfaces causes unequal electromotive forces on the plates, which also contributes to self-discharge.
(II) Methods to prevent battery self-discharge
1. Strengthen maintenance and keep the battery cover clean.
2. Ensure the electrolyte has high purity. When preparing the electrolyte and adding distilled water, strictly prevent impurities from entering.
3. Batteries should be charged frequently during storage to maintain a uniform electrolyte density and prevent the electrolyte level from dropping.
4. When rinsing the exterior of the battery, prevent wastewater from entering the battery through the filler cap or vent.
5. Damaged separators and plates should be repaired or replaced promptly.
6. When changing the electrolyte, be sure to completely remove any residual electrolyte from the battery (in special circumstances).
The online battery monitoring device uses network communication and battery detection technology to automatically detect the individual cell voltage, internal resistance, and terminal temperature of each cell, as well as the overall battery pack voltage and charging/discharging current at regular intervals. It can also promptly issue alarms for battery faults based on set parameters.
II. How to use storage batteries safely
1. Follow operating procedures
When using batteries, the operating procedures provided by the manufacturer should be strictly followed. This includes proper charging, discharging, and storage methods, as well as regularly checking the battery's condition.
2. Avoid overcharging and over-discharging.
Overcharging and over-discharging can both damage batteries. Therefore, a suitable charger should be used, and the battery should not be discharged to an excessively low voltage.
3. Control the charging current
During charging, the charging current should be controlled to avoid excessive current causing the battery to overheat. At the same time, excessively low current should also be avoided to prevent insufficient charging of the battery.
4. Maintain a suitable temperature
Batteries should be stored at a suitable temperature. Temperatures that are too high or too low will affect battery performance and lifespan. Therefore, batteries should be avoided from being exposed to extreme temperature environments.
5. Regular inspection and maintenance
Batteries should be inspected and maintained regularly to ensure their performance and safety. This includes checking the battery voltage, appearance, and connections, as well as cleaning the battery surface and connection terminals.
6. Use a suitable battery.
Different types of batteries are suitable for different application scenarios. Therefore, when selecting a battery, the appropriate battery type and specifications should be chosen based on actual needs.
7. Avoid physical damage
Batteries should be protected from physical damage such as drops, impacts, or punctures. Such damage could lead to battery leakage or short circuits, resulting in safety incidents.
8. Properly dispose of used batteries
Used batteries should be recycled and disposed of in accordance with local environmental regulations. Improper disposal of used batteries may cause environmental pollution.
