To extend the lifespan of nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd) batteries, several maintenance practices are recommended:
Storage Practices
- Cool, Dry Environment: Store Ni-Cd batteries in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight or heat sources. High temperatures accelerate degradation.
- Charging for Storage: For long-term storage, fully charge the battery or maintain it on a trickle charge to prevent deep discharge.
Charging Practices
- Proper Charging Rates: Use a charger designed for Ni-Cd batteries. Opt for slow charging at C/10 for gentle charging, but faster rates can be used with appropriate safeguards.
- Avoid Overcharging: Employ delta-peak detection or similar methods to terminate charging when full capacity is reached.
- Cycle Regularly: Perform full charge-discharge cycles every few months to maintain capacity and reduce memory effect.
Electrolyte Maintenance
- Water Levels: Periodically check and top off electrolyte levels with distilled water to maintain optimal levels. Refer to manufacturer guidelines.
- Electrolyte Density: Monitor electrolyte density, especially after adding water. Ensure specific gravity is within recommended ranges (e.g., 1.19-1.22 g/cm³).
Physical Maintenance
- Cleanliness: Keep containers and contacts clean. Use a damp cloth without man-made fibers or cleaning agents. Avoid static discharge risks.
- Connector Torque: Check intercell connectors annually and apply anti-corrosion grease to prevent corrosion.
- Protection from Chemicals: Avoid mixing Ni-Cd equipment with lead-acid battery equipment to prevent contamination.
Regular Testing
- Voltage and Capacity Checks: Periodically inspect each cell’s voltage and capacity to identify early degradation signs.
- Cell Balancing: Consider periodic cell balancing to ensure uniform performance in multi-cell packs.
By following these practices, you can significantly extend the lifespan of Ni-Cd batteries.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-maintenance-practices-are-recommended-for-extending-the-lifespan-of-nickel-cadmium-batteries/
