Tech Tip: How to keep stored 12V lead-acid batteries fresh

Most fleet maintenance managers keep lead-acid batteries in stock to avoid the downtime of a lengthy replacement process and to keep rolling stock rolling.

As a battery sits unused for periods of time—even a new battery—it can discharge up to 50 percent by the time it is installed and can also suffer from a buildup of lead sulfate crystals to the point where they create a physical barrier across the surface of the plate. Before long, this buildup can become so dense that a battery is no longer able to accept or release energy.

When new batteries arrive it is recommended that they be placed on a fully-automatic battery maintenance system, such as PulseTech’s PRO-12-RP. This is a 12-station 12V lead-acid battery maintenance system designed for any service facility or shop that services multiple batteries and vehicles by keeping stored 12V lead-acid batteries factory fresh. The twelve batteries are maintained with a continuous cycle of low amp charging that rotates through the 12 channels offsetting the normal discharge rate and are desulfated at all times so each battery can accept, retain and release maximum energy. When one battery is used, it is immediately replaced with another.

The results are that technicians are spending less time working with batteries, resulting in an indirect cost savings in more productivity to perform mechanical work (troubleshooting and repairs).

Information provided by: PulseTech Products Corp.