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Evaluation of a new charge algorithm for a lead-acid battery with gelled electrolyte using a 96V gel cell IV as a test battery

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/5410304· OSTI ID:5410304
 [1]
  1. Alabama Univ., Huntsville, AL (USA). Kenneth E. Johnson Research Center
This document has reported a summary of test results obtained utilizing the new UAH charge algorithm for Lead-Acid batteries with gelled electrolyte. The battery performance data for a 96V Phase IV Gel/Cell battery pack was tested in a Jet Industries Electrica vehicle. It was shown that the new charge concept is sound although there can be problems with batteries that are highly imbalanced and where excessive electronic noise is experienced on the electronic signal feed-back line that carries the voltage sensor signals from the battery. Additional work is needed to add intelligence to the charge algorithm in terms of a better ability to extract the beginning of gas development from the voltage spread function. This can probably be accomplished by scanning the voltages more often and including that data into the function analysis by adding software filters. The Phase IV Gel/Cell battery performance was found to be about 20% lower than that of the Phase III Gel/Cell battery. Problems with cell valve leakage were encountered in the Phase IV Gel/Cell that pose a threat to battery life although so far no battery module has been lost. 2 refs., 13 figs., 4 tabs.
Research Organization:
EG and G Idaho, Inc., Idaho Falls, ID (USA); Alabama Univ., Huntsville, AL (USA). Kenneth E. Johnson Research Center
Sponsoring Organization:
DOE/CE
DOE Contract Number:
FG08-87NV10672
OSTI ID:
5410304
Report Number(s):
DOE/NV/10672-1; ON: DE90003420
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English