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6.0 Batteries, charging and range
6.1 Batteries
Batteries are the power source for almost all of the modern
mobility products available today. The design of batteries used
in mobility products is significantly different to the batteries
used to start a car for example. Car batteries are designed
to release a large amount of power over a short period of
time, whilst mobility batteries (commonly called deep cycle
batteries) release their power evenly, over a long period of
time. Therefore, due to the lower production volumes and
increased technological requirements, mobility batteries are
typically more expensive.
Commonly two 12 volt batteries are used together in a
mobility product, giving a total voltage of 24 volts. The size
of the battery (e.g. its available power) is expressed in amps
per hour e.g. 70amp/hr. The higher the number, the bigger
the battery size, weight and, potentially, the greater the
distance you can travel. Sunrise Medical only fit as standard
maintenance free batteries into these types of wheelchairs.
This type of battery uses a method of carrying the electrolyte
commonly referred to as AGM or GEL, that is held within
the battery case. As the name implies, no maintenance is
required other than regular charging. You can safely transport
this type of battery without fear of acid spilling providing the
batteries have no damage. Furthermore, they are approved
for transportation on aircraft, trains and ships.
CAUTION!
• Do not fit car batteries to the wheelchair. Fit only deep cycle,
maintenance free mobility batteries.
• When the batteries are worn out, take them to the local
authority disposal point.
• Do not expose any part of the battery to direct heat (i.e.
naked flame, gas fire).
• Be extra cautious to reduce the risk of dropping a metal tool
onto the battery. It could spark or short circuit the battery
or other electrical parts that may cause an explosion. Also
take off all personal metal effects and dangling objects when
working on the battery.
• Return the batteries back to Sunrise Medical or directly to
the battery manufacturer for recycling, when they no longer
hold charge.
• The battery terminals need to be checked regularly for
signs of corrosion. If any corrosion is apparent, then clean
the terminals completely and re-grease the terminal using
Vaseline petroleum jelly, not ordinary grease. Ensure that
the terminal nut and bolt, cable clip and exposed cable are
completely covered with jelly.
DANGER!
• Do not expose any part of the battery to direct heat (i.e.
naked flame, gas fire).
• Be extra cautious to reduce the risk of dropping a metal tool
onto the battery. It could spark or short circuit the battery
or other electrical parts that may cause an explosion. Also
take off all personal metal effects and dangling objects
when working on the battery.
Q300 R Rev.A
100A
RED
100A
Battery Connector
BLACK
DANGER!
• Do not, under any circumstances, tamper with the batteries.
If in any doubt contact your local Sunrise Medical authorised
dealer. Avoid contact with acid on damaged sealed type
batteries or wet batteries.
• Battery acid can cause burns to the skin as well as
damage to floors, furniture and your wheelchair.
• If battery acid comes into contact with the skin or
clothing, wash immediately with soap and water.
• If battery acid comes into contact with the eye,
immediately flood the eye with running cold water
for at least 10 minutes and seek medical attention
immediately.
• Acid spills can be neutralised with baking soda and water.
• Take care to keep batteries upright at all times, especially
when transporting your wheelchair.
Safety cut-outs
In the event of a short circuit there are several safety systems
built into your wheelchair to safeguard your electrical circuits,
(Fig. 6.1).
1. Fusible 100A links are connected into the battery harnesses
to protect the batteries and wiring.
2. 15A auxiliary power circuit fuses for auxiliary modules and
seating power supply.
To replace them contact your Sunrise Medical authorised
dealer, who will also diagnose the original fault.
Battery Connector
RED
YELLOW
15A
BLACK
Auxillary Power
Fig. 6.1
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