Saft SMRX-F3 Manual

SMRX-F3 Ni-Cd batteries
Transparent flame retardant plastic containers
Installation and operating instructions

Important recommendations

Never allow an exposed flame or
■
spark near the batteries,
particularly while charging.
Never smoke while performing any
■
operation on the battery.
For protection, wear rubber gloves,
■
long sleeves, and appropriate
splash goggles or face shield.
The electrolyte is harmful to skin
■
and eyes. In the event of contact
with skin or eyes, wash immediately
with plenty of water. If eyes are
affected, flush with water, and
obtain immediate medical attention.
Remove all rings, watches and
■
other items with metal parts before
working on the battery.
Use insulated tools.
■
Avoid static electricity and take
■
measures for protection against
electric shocks.
Discharge any possible static
■
electricity from clothing
and/or tools by touching an
earth-connected part "ground"
before working on the battery.

1. Receiving the shipment

Unpack the battery immediately upon
arrival. Do not overturn the package.
Transport seals are located under the
cover of the vent plug.
Make sure all items on the packing list
are included with the shipment.
SMRX-F3 batteries are usually
shipped discharged and filled with
electrolyte. Check for damage or
electrolyte spillage. Report any
irregularities to the carrier and Saft.
Remove the plastic transport seals
immediately prior to installation on the
car or any charge/discharge. The
battery must never be used electrically
while the plastic transport seal is in
place as this can cause permanent
damage.
A charged battery can be installed
immediately. Refer to Section 4 for
applicable Commissioning. Always refer
to Section 2 for Storage conditions.

2. Storage

Store the battery indoors in a dry,
clean and cool location (0°C/+ 32°F to
+ 30°C/+ 86°F).
Make sure that the transport seals
■
remain in place during storage.
Do not expose the batteries to direct
■
sunlight or excessive heat.
A battery delivered discharged and
■
filled may be stored for many years
before it is installed.
A battery delivered charged (80 %)
■
must not be stored more than
3 months (including transport) or at
a temperature >+ 30°C (>+ 86°F).
The battery is ready for immediate
use within this 3-month period. Refer
to Section 4 if stored beyond
3 months or at a temperature
>+ 30°C (>+ 86°F).
A battery delivered fully charged
■
must not be stored more than
6 weeks (including transport) or at
a temperature >+ 30°C (>+ 86°F). If
beyond 6 weeks or >+30°C (+86°F),
contact Saft.

3. Installation

Remove the transport seals and close
the vent plug.
3.1. Verify that cells are correctly
interconnected and that the battery
is properly connected to the load.
3.2. Check tightness of terminal
connecting nuts. Torque applied must be:
• Top terminal nut (M12 terminal post;
12 mm / 19 mm (1/2") Top Nut) :
15 ± 2 N.m (11±1.5 ft.lb)
The connectors, terminal nuts,
(if supplied) must be corrosion-protected
by coating with a thin layer of neutral
vaseline or anti-corrosion oil (contact
Saft for more information).

3.3. Electrolyte

The electrolyte to be used is E10.
Cells delivered filled:
■
Check the level of electrolyte. The cells
must have a level of electrolyte above
the plates. If it is not the case, adjust
the level of electrolyte to 5 mm (0.2 in)
above the plate tops with distilled or
deionized water.

4. Commissioning

Refer to Table A for 0.2 C A charge
5
or discharge currents.
4.1. Discharged cells placed into
service immediately after delivery or
after less than one year of storage:
Constant current charge:
■
• 8 h at 0.2 C A
5
Caution: during charging, the battery
box must be open.
March 2012
Constant potential charge:
■
• 1.55 V/cell for 20 h, with the
current limited to 0.2 C A
5
Charge at constant current is
recommended. The battery is ready
for use.
4.2. Discharged cells stored more
than 1 year:
a) charge 10 h at 0.2 C A
5
b) discharge at 0.2 C A down to
5
1.0 V/cell
c) charge 8 h at 0.2 C A
5
The battery is ready for use.
4.3 Charged cells (80%) shipped
and stored at temperatures
<+30°C (+86°F), less than 3 months
from date of charge:
The battery is ready for use.
4.4. Charged cells (80%) shipped
and/or stored at temperatures
>+ 30°C (> + 86°F), and/or ≥3 months
from date of charge:
a) charge 10 h at 0.2 C A
5
b) discharge at 0.2 C A down to
5
1.0 V/cell
c) charge 8 h at 0.2 C A
5
The battery is ready for use.

5. Charging in service

5.1. Cycling application

The battery is cycled up to 20% DOD
(Depth Of Discharge) per day.
Single level charge:
■
1.45 - 1.55 V/cell at + 20°C (+ 68°F)
1.47 V/cell is recommended.
Two level charge:
■
• High level: 1.45 - 1.60 V/cell
at + 20°C (+ 68°F)
• Float level: 1.38 - 1.40 V/cell
at + 20°C (+ 68°F)

5.2. Stand-by application

Battery is on float and discharged only
in emergency situation.
Single level charge:
■
1.41 - 1.43 V/cell at + 20°C (+ 68°F)