Due to the unstable power quality, frequent damageDue to the unstable power quality, frequent damage crashes, and loss of important frequent damage to computer hardware, system crashes, and loss of important data often occur. Therefore, an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) has gradually become an indispensable standard equipment when purchasing computer equipment. However, how to choose a UPS often troubles users, and an important component of a UPS power source is the battery. To choose a good UPS, one must select a high-quality, branded UPS battery.
Here are some methods to guide you in making your selection:
1. Check if it is a UPS-specific battery:
There are many types of sealed lead-acid batteries, and different types have different production points and performance characteristics. The fixed-type batteries used in UPS are wet-charged products, requiring low self-discharge, long float life, and strong overcharge resistance. In contrast, starting batteries used in automobiles are ready-to-use products, focusing on high dry-charge current start performance and cycle performance. Therefore, when purchasing batteries for a UPS system, first ensure they are UPS-specific.
2. Appearance inspection:
Since it is difficult to distinguish the quality of batteries without using them for some time, buyers can only get a direct impression from the appearance before purchase. Buyers should check if the battery's packaging is solid and well-made, whether the battery casing and connection terminals are clean and shiny, if the sealing is good, and whether the terminals are firmly welded. Look for any signs of leakage, deformation, cracks, or corrosion, as these can reflect the quality of the battery from one side.
3. Charge and discharge testing:
The capacity of a battery can be tested through charge and discharge tests. After charging a newly purchased battery continuously for more than 8 hours, perform a discharge test with a resistive load of a certain value. During discharging, measure and record the battery's terminal voltage at regular intervals, and plot a graph of the terminal voltage decrease over time; batteries with a slow voltage drop are preferable.
4. Consistency testing:
Battery packs equipped in UPS systems usually work under float charge conditions. VRLA batteries use a cathode absorption system. Within the first six months of use, the float voltage may not stabilize, which is a normal phenomenon and will gradually balance out. After six months, test the float voltage of each battery in the pack; the difference should not exceed 10mV. Better consistency indicates higher battery quality and longer service life.
The UPS battery is an indispensable and important part of the UPS, and its maintenance methods should not be overlooked.
Four maintenance methods:
1.Check the float voltage of each battery cell and the temperature of the battery casing or pole every quarter. If the float voltage increases or the temperature is too high, handle it according to the manual or contact the manufacturer.
2.Perform a capacity discharge test once a year or every two years. If the capacity is insufficient, inform and handle it with the manufacturer promptly.
3.It is generally not recommended to equalize charge regularly. After battery discharge or during accidental power outages, managers should promptly go to the battery room to perform an equalizing charge on the batteries and check the charging current of the charger to prevent excessive charging current.
4.Check the tightness of the pole connection bolts every six months or regularly, clean the dust on the batteries, especially on the poles and connecting strips, to prevent battery leakage or grounding. Also, observe if there are any abnormalities on the battery appearance and handle them promptly if any are found.
