UPS batteries]

[Andre Kesteloot]

Alan Melia wrote:

> Hi Peter I note your replacement of the sealed batteries in the UPS with old
> car batteries. The UPS will charge them correctly but the car batteries will
> produce hydrogen, I believe, even on a maintenance charge. The sealed
> batteries are designed not to produce hydrogen (by careful design of the
> electrode sizes) unless maltreated ( then they bulge alarmingly ). I know
> your shack is in an extension and hope it is well ventilated.
>
> A Radio Club member at MRS was involved in a nasty accident with
> professional battery back up rack, when a techician walking across a carpet
> to test a battery (backing a professional link circuit) drew a static spark
> as he reached for the vent caps and and was drenched in battery acid, by the
> resultant explosion. The amateur present was able to sluice him with water
> immediately, and use eye wash bottle. He suffered no lasting effects other
> than the need for a new pair of shoes and trousers, and an healthy caution
> when approaching lead-acid batteries.  If the batteries can be located
> outside in a ventilated cover box it would be safer, particularly with the
> voltages and possibility of sparks involved in LF transmitters. At least do
> keep an eye wash bottle nearby. It is better to be safe........
>
> Cheers de Alan G3NYK
> alan.melia@btinternet.com