Switchgear DC backup load testing

[pooslinger]

Does anybody have a slick inexpensive way to load test a 120v battery bank? 10 12v lead acid batteries with a constant trickle applied. Please don't suggest light bulbs. I need something that a maintenance guy can use. Also, can you give me any reason not to replace the lead acid with gel cells.

 

[oldfieldguy]

Ok. Don't use light bulbs. Use heater strips. Parallel as many as you need to get a reasonable current draw, and then monitor cell voltages until you reach your lower allowable limit. For lead-acid batteries, 1.75 volts on any cell in the string is the stopping point.

Gell-cells are not an option in my book. Too many users think of them as "maintenance free" and this leads to some really bad incidents when they fail to perform. With the traditional flooded cells, you can see electrolyte levels and other visual indications.

If you go with the gells,, then I'd recommend a load test annually. Also, the gell-cells do not do well in hot environments, so think of your battery location.

old field guy

 

[mcgyvr]

Lots of small portable load banks out there.

http://www.simplexdirect.com/LoadBank/swifte.html

Also Miller (the welding company) makes a nice/cheap load bank

http://www.millerwelds.com/pdf/spec_sheets/AY6-1.pdf

 

[ScottyUK]

Cressall used to have a number of load banks.

http://www.cressall.com/a-load-testing-2.htm

The build quality is pretty good and costs aren't outrageous.

The 110V 500W halogen floodlamps used in industrial and construction are a useful solution when you need something quickly unless you're talking about a big battery like a turbine critical services battery. For a substation tripping & control battery they work fine. They just don't look great!


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If we learn from our mistakes I'm getting a great education!

 

[Zogzog]

Try the EBITE battery testing system from AVO. Just as good as a load test (IMO anyway)It check battery cell impedance