[3.3.1
General Instructions for Lead Calcium Alloy Battery
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NOTE: Delete paragraph and subparagraph if sealed
(valve regulated) battery is used.
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a.
Only authorized personnel who have been thoroughly familiarized
with battery installation, charging, and maintenance procedures
will be permitted access to the battery room.
b.
During initial activation, monitor the battery continuously for
electrolyte level, specific gravity, temperature, voltage, and
current. Record measurements every hour.
c.
Use only distilled water in the battery cells.
d.
During the activation charging cycle it may be necessary to
provide additional ventilation to maintain a low ambient
temperature in the area of the charging cells. This is to prevent
a possible heat induced boil-over of the cell's electrolyte.
e.
During the activation charging cycle, Contractor shall provide a
chemical agent, such as soda ash or baking soda, capable of
neutralizing electrolytic fluid, in sufficient quantity to safely
neutralize any spill or boil-over of electrolyte.
f.
At all times while in the battery room, personnel shall wear the
proper safety items as deemed necessary by their task. This shall
include, but not be limited to, face shield, impermeable apron,
and acid resistant boots and gloves. Contractor shall provide one
extra set of safety equipment for Contracting Officer.
[3.3.1.1
Hydrogen Gas Safety Instructions
a.
During activation and operation of the battery, hydrogen gas is
formed. Hydrogen gas is extremely explosive when ignited.
Contractor shall ensure sufficient ventilation is provided to
prevent the hydrogen level from exceeding a one percent
concentration by volume of the space in the battery room.
b.
An essentially fully charged battery will generate a maximum of
0.00045 cubic meter 0.016 cubic feet of hydrogen (measured at 25
degrees C and 760 mm Hg absolute pressure) per hour from each cell
for each ampere of charging current. When necessary, additional
ventilation may be required during activation charging cycle.
c.
Never bring burning material such as lit matches, cigarettes,
lighters, or any type of spark producing material or devices into
the battery room or adjacent to any cell.
][3.3.1.2
Sulfuric Acid Safety Instruction
a.
During handling of the electrolytic fluid, personnel shall wear
the appropriate safety clothes, as previously specified.
b.
Exercise the utmost caution to avoid spilling electrolyte. When
acid comes in contact with the eyes or skin, immediately flush and
SECTION 16262N
Page 12
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