Charging
I have purchased one of your batteries. Where can I purchase a suitable charger?
Power-Sonic offers a wide range of chargers suitable for batteries up to 100AH. These chargers can most likely be purchased from the same source that sold you the battery. Both our charger specification sheets and our battery specification sheets, as featured on our website, specify the correct charger required for the Power-Sonic battery. If your battery source does not offer chargers, our customer service department will be able to direct you to a suitable distributor. Contact us today.
How can I determine how many hours will it take me to fully charge one of your batteries?
Charging times can vary substantially depending upon so many variable factors including: – Depth of discharge – Charging temperature – Size and efficiency of the charging equipment – Age and condition of the battery.
Can I charge Power-Sonic sealed lead acid batteries with an auto charger?
The electrolytes in an auto battery and a sealed lead acid battery have different specific gravities. Different chargers are required for each type. Using an auto charger could result in heat being generated inside a Power-Sonic battery; this in turn would shorten the battery life. Please contact our technical department if you need help in determining a suitable charger.
How can I determine how many hours will it take me to fully charge one of your batteries?
Charging times can vary substantially depending upon so many variable factors including: – Depth of discharge – Charging temperature – Size and efficiency of the charging equipment – Age and condition of the battery For further information about charging please see pages 12-19 of our Technical Manual. To access our Technical Manual please go to the Literature – SLA Batteries section of our website
I have purchased a 4 volt battery from you, how can I charge it?
Power-Sonic only offers 6 and 12 volt chargers and as such we do not have a suitable charger available for charging a single battery.
What is thermal runaway?
As a result of too high a charge voltage excessive current will flow into the battery, after reaching full charge, causing decomposition of water in the electrolyte and premature aging. At high rates of overcharge a battery will progressively heat up. As the battery gets hotter it will accept more current heating up even further. This is called thermal runaway and it can destroy a battery in as little as a few hours.
Where can I find the user manual on instructions for operating your charger?
These are available for download in PDF form from our website. Please go to Literature – File Downloads and scroll down to SLA Battery Charger Operating Instructions.
General Information
What are some differences between Lithium and AGM batteries?
Different Lithium Technologies
Firstly, it is important to note that there are many types of “Lithium Ion” batteries. The point to note in this definition refers to a “family of batteries”.
There are several different “Lithium Ion” batteries within this family which utilize different materials for their cathode and anode. As a result, they exhibit very different characteristics and therefore are suitable for different applications.
Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4)
Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) is a well-known lithium technology in Australia due to its wide use and suitability to a wide range of applications.
Characteristics of low price, high safety and good specific energy, make this a strong option for many applications.
LiFePO4 cell voltage of 3.2V/cell also makes it the lithium technology of choice for sealed lead acid replacement in a number of key applications.
Why LiFePO4?
Of all the lithium options available, there are several reasons why LiFePO4 has been selected as the ideal lithium technology for replacement of SLA. The main reasons come down to its favourable characteristics when looking at the main applications where SLA currently exist. These include:
- Similar voltage to SLA (3.2V per cell x 4 = 12.8V) making them ideal for SLA replacement.
- Safest form of the lithium technologies.
- Environmentally friendly –phosphate is not hazardous and so is friendly both to the environment and not a health risk.
- Wide temperature range.
Features and benefits of LiFePO4 when compared to SLA
Below are some key features LiFePO4 batteries which give some significant advantages of SLA in a range of applications. This is not a complete list by all means, however it does cover the key items. A 100AH AGM battery has been selected as the SLA, as this is one of the most commonly used sizes in deep cycle applications. This 100AH AGM has been compared to a 100AH LiFePO4 in order to compare a like for like as close as possible.
Feature – Weight:
Comparison
- LifePO4 is less than half the weight of SLA
- AGM Deep cycle – 27.5Kg
- LiFePO4 – 12.2Kg
Benefits
- Increases fuel efficiency
- In caravan and boat applications, towing weight is reduced.
- Increases speed
- In boat applications water speed can be increased
- Reduction in overall weight
- Longer runtime
Weight has a large bearing on many applications, especially where towing or speed in involved, such and caravan and boating. Other applications including portable lighting and camera applications where the batteries need to be carried.
Feature – Greater Cycle Life:
Comparison
- Up to 6 time the cycle life
- AGM Deep cycle – 300 cycles @ 100% DoD
- LiFePO4 – 2000 cycles @ 100% DoD
Benefits
- Lower total cost of ownership (cost per kWh much lower over life of battery for LiFePO4)
- Reduction in replacement costs – replace the AGM up to 6 times before the LiFePO4 needs replacing
The greater cycle life means that the extra upfront cost of a LiFePO4 battery is more than made up for over the life use of the battery. If being used daily, an AGM will need to be replaced approx. 6 times before the LiFePO4 needs replacing
Feature – Flat Discharge Curve:
Comparison
- At 0.2C (20A) discharge
- AGM – drops below 12V after
- 1.5 hrs of runtime
- LiFePO4 – drops below 12V after approximately 4 hrs of runtime
Benefits
- More efficient use of battery capacity
- Power = Volts x Amps
- Once voltage starts to drop off, battery will need to supply higher amps to provide same amount of power.
- Higher voltage is better for electronics
- Longer runtime for equipment
- Full use of capacity even at high discharge rate
- AGM @ 1C discharge = 50% Capacity
- LiFePO4 @ 1C discharge = 100% capacity
This feature is little known but is a strong advantage and it gives multiple benefits. With the flat discharge curve of LiFePO4, the terminal voltage holds above 12V for up to 85-90% capacity usage. Because of this, less amps are required in order to supply the same amount of power (P=VxA) and therefore the more efficient use of the capacity leads to longer runtime. The user will also not notice the slowing down of the device (golf cart for example) earlier.
Along with this the effect of Peukert’s law is much less significant with lithium than that of AGM. This results in having available a large percentage of the capacity of the battery no matter what the discharge rate. At 1C (or 100A discharge for 100AH battery) the LiFePO4 option will still give you 100AH vs only 50AH for AGM.
Feature – Increased Use Of Capacity:
Comparison
- AGM recommended DoD = 50%
- LiFePO4 recommended DoD = 80%
- AGM Deep cycle – 100AH x 50% = 50Ah usable
- LiFePO4 – 100Ah x 80% = 80Ah
- Difference = 30Ah or 60% more capacity usage
Benefits
- Increased runtime or smaller capacity battery for replacement
The increased use of the available capacity means the user can either obtain up to 60% more runtime from the same capacity option in LiFePO4, or alternatively opt for a smaller capacity LiFePO4 battery while still achieving the same runtime as the larger capacity AGM.
Feature – Greater Charge Efficiency:
Comparison
- AGM – Full charge takes approx. 8 hours
- LiFePO4 – Full charge can be as low as 2 hrs
Benefits
- Battery charged and ready to be used again more quickly
Another strong benefit in many applications. Due to the lower internal resistance among other factors, LiFePO4 can accept charge at a much great rate than AGM. This allows them to be charged and ready to use much faster, leading to many benefits.
Feature – Low Self Discharge Rate:
Comparison
- AGM – Discharge to 80% SOC after 4 months
- LiFePO4 – Discharge to 80% after 8 months
Benefits
- Can be left in storage for a longer period
This feature is a big one for the recreational vehicles which may only be used for a couple of months a year before going into storage for the rest of the year such as caravans, boats, motorcycles and Jet Skis etc. Along with this point, LiFePO4 doesn’t calcify and so even after being left for extended periods of time, the battery is less likely to be permanently damaged. A LiFePO4 battery is not harmed by not being left in storage in a fully charged state.
So, if your applications warrant any of the above features then you will be sure to get your monies worth for the extra spent on a LiFePO4 battery. Follow up article will follow in the coming weeks which will include the safety aspects on LiFePO4 and different Lithium chemistries.
At Sealed Performance Batteries, we are a battery company which has been around for 25 years and have in depth experience and knowledge of a wide range of battery technologies. We have been selling and supporting Lithium batteries for many years into many applications so if there are any requirements you have or need any questions asked, feel free to contact us.
Are your SLA batteries recombinant?
Yes, detailed information can be found in our Technical Manual on page 4. To access our Technical Manual please visit the SLA Batteries section in our Datahub.
Can you send me spec sheets of the following batteries?
All our spec sheets, in PDF form, can be downloaded from the Products section of our website.
Do your batteries have National Stock Numbers (NSN)?
Most of our batteries have NSN numbers. These can be accessed from the product pages.
Do your sealed lead acid batteries develop a "memory"?
Due to the nature of the materials used, this type of battery does not develop any memory.
Does Power-Sonic sell lead-calcium batteries?
All our sealed lead acid batteries utilize a lead-calcium alloy free of antimony. The small amount of calcium (and tin) in the grid alloy imparts strength to the plate and guarantees durability even in excessive cycle service. The heavy duty lead calcium alloy grids provide an extra margin of performance and life in both cyclical and float applications and give unparalleled recovery from deep discharge.
How are your batteries rated?
Our PS, PSH and PSG-Series batteries are rated at their 20 hour rate. Our PG-Series long life batteries, in accordance with industry convention, are rated at their 10 hour rate.
How can I find out what is the internal resistance of my battery?
Power-Sonic publishes the internal resistance of all of our sealed lead acid batteries on page one of the individual battery specification sheets. All our spec sheets, in PDF form, can be downloaded from the Products section of our website. If you require any further information please contact us directly.
How do I add acid to the battery?
You should never seek to add acid to our sealed batteries. Our VRLA batteries are a closed system that works on a recombination principle. To produce a truly maintenance free battery it is necessary that the gasses generated during overcharge are recombined in a so called “oxygen cycle”.The theory is explained on page 4 of our Technical Manual. To access our Technical Manual please go to the Literature – SLA Batteries section of our website. Opening the battery will cause irreparable damage and void the warranty.
How do we read the date code on your batteries?
PS, PSH, PSG and PG Series Product Date Codes The first five numeric characters represent the month, day and year of manufacture (MM/DD/Y) • The first two numbers identify the month, from 01 to 12. For example, March is 03 and November is 11. • The second two numbers specify the day of the month, from 01 to 31. • The fifth digit identifies the year from 0 to 9. This digit is repeated every 10 years. For example, 1 = 2001, 4 = 2004 etc. For example: 09016 would be broken down to September 1st, 2006 There may be additional alpha-numeric characters at the end of the date code. These are internal lot numbers or injection mold numbers and they have no bearing on the date of manufacture. Powersport Batteries Product Date Codes The first four characters represent the year, month and production line(Y/MM/*) • The first letter identifies the year, from A to Z. For example, E = 2005, F = 2006, G = 2007. • The second two numbers specify the month, from 01 to 12. • The fourth digit/letter identifies the factory code. This code does not reflect the date of manufacture. For example: F10Y would be broken down to October, 2006.
How long will your batteries last?
Detailed information about the many factors effecting battery life can be found in our Technical Manual on pages 10 and 11. To access our Technical Manual please visit the SLA Batteries section in our Datahub.
I am trying to send some of your batteries by air but the freight forwarder won't take them because they say they are hazardous goods. What do I do?
Our sealed lead acid batteries can be shipped safely by air. For more information please contact us directly.
In which direction does current flow in a battery?
The conventional direction is from positive terminal (anode) to negative terminal (cathode). This is the direction of the electric field within the wire.
What are the differences between AGM sealed lead batteries and Gel sealed lead batteries?
Both kinds of batteries are sealed, valve regulated types allowing them to be used in any position. The difference lies in the way the electrolyte is immobilized. In case of an absorbed electrolyte type (AGM), the newer of the two technologies, the electrolyte is absorbed by the glass fiber separator who acts like a sponge. In a gel-type battery the liquid electrolyte turns into a gel right after the battery is filled. Gel batteries use a different type of separators which are not absorbent. The internal design is otherwise similar. Advantages of AGM batteries when compared to gel type batteries; AGM batteries have a higher AH capacity in the same size case: PS-121000 is a 100AH battery whereas, for example, a gel type battery in the same size case would only be rated 84 AH; AGM batteries are generally about 20% less expensive than comparable gel batteries-AGM batteries have better high-rate discharge characteristics desirable in UPS – telecom applications • AGM batteries are much more readily available; 85 – 90% of all VRLA batteries sold are of the AGM type.
What are the lowest and highest temperatures that your sealed lead acid batteries can operate in?
Power-Sonic PS, PSH, PSG and PG batteries can be discharged at temperatures from -40 degree celsius to 60 degree celsius (-40 degree Fahrenheit to 140 degree Fahrenheit) and charged at temperatures from -20 degree celsius to 50 degree celsius (-4 degree Fahrenheit to 122 degree Fahrenheit).
What is battery cycle life?
The number of charge/discharge cycles that can be achieved before a battery reaches the end of its useful life. The number of cycles depends on the capacity taken from the battery (a function of discharge rate and depth of discharge), operating temperature and charging method. Further information can be found in our Technical Manual on page 10. To access our Technical Manual please visit the SLA Batteries section in our Datahub.
What is battery float life?
The life expectancy of a battery under continuous charge. This depends on the frequency and depth of discharge, the float voltage and the ambient temperature. Further information can be found in our Technical Manual on page 11. To access our Technical Manual please visit the SLA Batteries section in our Datahub.
What is the battery case made from?
Our battery cases and lids are made from ABS plastic that complies with a specific UL rating. Depending on the application, some cases are manufactured from ABS that has a higher resistance to flame than the standard model. More information can be found on the battery product pages.
What is the country of origin for your Power-Sonic batteries?
Most of our batteries come from China. Due to the need for special sizes etc., some of our batteries are sourced from Taiwan or Vietnam.
What is the difference between cycle use and standby use?
When a battery is being used as a power source on a regular basis and it is being discharged and subsequently recharged, the battery is said to be in cyclic use. The determining factor in the life of this battery is the number of charge/discharge cycles that can be completed. In cyclical applications up to 1,000 charge/discharge cycles can be expected depending on the average depth of discharge. Standby batteries are meant to act as an emergency power source where the main power source has failed for some reason. Consequently standby batteries are kept fully charged so that they can “kick in” immediately. The batteries remain connected to a trickle charger that will keep the battery fully charged and ready for use. In standby use the batteries have a design life of up to five years. Please consult our Technical Manual and product specifications to become aware of the many factors that effect product life.
What is the difference between SLA, VRLA and AGM batteries?
SLA and VRLA are different acronyms for the same battery, Sealed Lead Acid or Valve Regulated Lead Acid. This battery type has the following characteristics: Maintenance-free, leak-proof, position insensitive. Batteries of this kind have a safety vent to release gas in case of excessive internal pressure build up. AGM, Absorbed Glass Mat refers to a specific type of SLA/VRLA where the electrolyte is absorbed into separators between the plates consisting of sponge like fine glass fiber mats.
Where can I find a constant current discharge chart?
This can be found in our Technical Manual on page 7. To access our Technical Manual please visit the SLA Batteries section in our Datahub.
Where can I recycle your batteries?
Sealed Performance Batteries is dedicated to the protection of our environment and we would urge you to recycle your old batteries on every occasion.
We in the battery industry are proud of the fact that lead-acid batteries are the environmental success story of our time. More than 97% of all battery lead is recycled. Compared to 55% of aluminium soft drink and beer cans, 45% of newspapers, 26% of glass bottles and 26% of tyres, lead acid batteries top the list of the most highly recycled consumer products.
The lead-acid battery gains its environmental edge from its closed loop cycle. The typical new lead-acid battery contains 60 to 80 percent recycled lead and plastic The recycling cycle goes on indefinitely, that means the lead and plastic in the lead-acid batteries that you use have been – and will continue to be – recycled many, many times. This makes lead acid battery disposal extremely successful from both environmental and cost perspectives.
Almost all scrap metal merchants will accept used lead-acid batteries for recycling. A collection service is available at most landfills, transfer stations, service stations and automotive workshops.
Many councils have regular collections or drop-off locations for hazardous waste. Visit your council pages on RecyclingNearYou.com.au to find out about hazardous waste services in your area.
If you are still having difficulties we would be happy to direct you to a local recycling source in your area.
Will I get the same battery life from all of your PS-Series batteries?
The life of a battery will depend upon a number of factors including application, operating temperature and the charging method. More in-depth information can be found in our Technical Manual on pages 10 and 11. To access our Technical Manual please visit the SLA Batteries section of our Datahub.
Installation
What is the AH supposed to be right out of the box?
A brand new battery will have a capacity (AH) 5-10% lower than the rated capacity. The full amp hour will be reached when the battery has been cycled 10 -30 times.
We have just purchased some of your batteries from a supplier and they are not performing as well as the older Power-Sonic batteries that they replaced. Any ideas why?
The most likely reason is that they have not come up to full capacity yet. A brand new battery will have a capacity (AH) 5-10% lower than the rated capacity. The full amp hour will be reached when the battery has been cycled 10 -30 times.
I want to use your batteries in series, what are the considerations?
In connecting batteries in series (increases voltage) the positive terminal of the first battery is connected to the negative terminal of the second battery and so on down the string. The interconnecting cables must be of equal length and resistance to insure equalization of the load. All batteries in the string will receive the same amount of charge current, though individual battery voltages may vary. High voltage strings of batteries in series should be limited to twenty 6 volt or ten 12 volt batteries when a single constant voltage charger is connected across the entire string. Differences in capacity can cause some batteries to overcharge while others remain undercharged thus causing premature aging of batteries. It is, therefore, not advisable to mix batteries of different capacities, make, or age in a series string.
How do I connect your batteries in parallel? (Increases capacity)
When charging batteries in parallel (positive terminals are connected to the positive terminal and negative terminals to the negative), all batteries in the string will receive the same charge voltage but the charge current each battery receives will vary until equalization is reached.
Can I bend the terminals of the battery in the opposite direction?
The terminals of any sealed lead acid battery should not be bent. They are bonded in place with epoxy and bending the terminals may crack the epoxy and allow electrolyte to leak out and air to take its place. This will shorten the life of the battery, may cause damage due to the electrolyte spillage and will void the warranty.
As you don't make 24 volt batteries can we use 12 volt instead. If so, how do we hook them up?
Yes you can use two 12 volt batteries by connecting them in series, as shown in the diagram below. Positive is connected to negative and negative is connected to positive. It is important that you access our Technical Manual page 17 for further information. To access our Technical Manual please visit the SLA Batteries section in our Datahub.
Can I bend the terminals of the battery in the opposite direction?
The terminals of any sealed lead acid battery should not be bent. They are bonded in place with epoxy and bending the terminals may crack the epoxy and allow electrolyte to leak out and air to take its place. This will shorten the life of the battery, may cause damage due to the electrolyte spillage and will void the warranty.
Can we install a battery in a sealed enclosure?
Batteries must never be charged or discharged in a sealed environment. Batteries generate a mixture of gasses internally. Given the right set of circumstances, such as extreme overcharging or shorting of the battery, these gasses might vent into the enclosure and create the potential for an explosion when ignited by a spark. Generally, ventilation inherent in most enclosures is sufficient to avoid problems.
Can your batteries be laid on their side?
Our batteries can be operated in virtually any orientation without loss of capacity or electrolyte leakage. However, upside down operation is not recommended. Before undertaking installation please ensure that you are familiar with our Technical Manual, particularly with the Important Do’s and don’ts detailed on pages 20 and 21. To access our Technical Manual please visit the SLA Batteries section in our Datahub.
How do I connect your batteries in parallel? (Increases capacity)
When charging batteries in parallel (positive terminals are connected to the positive terminal and negative terminals to the negative), all batteries in the string will receive the same charge voltage but the charge current each battery receives will vary until equalization is reached.
I want to use your batteries in series, what are the considerations?
In connecting batteries in series (increases voltage) the positive terminal of the first battery is connected to the negative terminal of the second battery and so on down the string. The interconnecting cables must be of equal length and resistance to insure equalization of the load. All batteries in the string will receive the same amount of charge current, though individual battery voltages may vary. High voltage strings of batteries in series should be limited to twenty 6 volt or ten 12 volt batteries when a single constant voltage charger is connected across the entire string. Differences in capacity can cause some batteries to overcharge while others remain undercharged thus causing premature aging of batteries. It is, therefore, not advisable to mix batteries of different capacities, make, or age in a series string.
We have just purchased some of your batteries from a supplier and they are not performing as well as the older Power-Sonic batteries that they replaced. Any ideas why?
The most likely reason is that they have not come up to full capacity yet. A brand new battery will have a capacity (AH) 5-10% lower than the rated capacity. The full amp hour will be reached when the battery has been cycled 10 -30 times.
What are the recommended torque settings for your nut and bolt terminals?
These settings are published in the Terminals section of our website. See our Data Hub for more information.
What is the AH supposed to be right out of the box?
A brand new battery will have a capacity (AH) 5-10% lower than the rated capacity. The full amp hour will be reached when the battery has been cycled 10 -30 times.
Rules and Regulations
Are your batteries CE compliant?
CE certification of electrical/electronic devices relates to electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). The certifications and tests related to this are designed to ensure that electromagnetic radiation (which are really radio waves) from components do not interfere with other devices such as TV, radio, computers, medical equipment and mobile phones. Types of devices that do not radiate electromagnetic radiation and so on are not required to undergo the tests. However many Asian battery manufacturers have been persuaded by various testing organizations that they should be tested and this is why you will see the CE mark on many Chinese batteries. Our Chinese factory decided to do the same and obtained the certificate in several brand names including Power Sonic. Power-Sonic decided not to include this marking on our batteries because it is not necessary and it is misleading. We can furnish copies of the CE certificate from our factory if absolutely required.
Are your batteries in compliance with EU Directive 2006/66/EC?
Power-Sonic Corporation Sealed Lead Acid Batteries do not contain any of the substances contained in article 4 of the directive: (a) All batteries or accumulators, whether or not incorporated into appliances, that contain more than 0.0005% of mercury by weight; and (b) Portable batteries or accumulators, including those incorporated into appliances, which contain more than 0.002% of cadmium by weight. A copy of our Material Safety Data Sheet can be accessed from the MSDS section in our Datahub. Page one of the document lists all the materials that are contained in our sealed lead acid batteries. It will be noted that the EU directive clearly states “no lead ban”. It is certified therefore, that our sealed lead acid batteries are in full compliance with this directive. There is a requirement for our sealed lead acid batteries to be labeled with the WEEE symbol (a crossed-out wheelie bin and the appropriate chemical symbol). This is designed to inform the end user to separate batteries from other waste. Our batteries do carry this label. Our NiCd batteries are not compliant with the EU directive and should not be exported. Our U.K. subsidiary, Power-Sonic Europe, do carry NiCd batteries that are compliant
Are your batteries R.E.A.C.H. (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and restriction of Chemicals) compliant?
This is a recent European regulation that came into force on June 1st, 2007. A major aim is “to provide a high level of protection of human health and the environment from the use of chemicals”(1). Whilst the registration is primarily aimed at the chemical industry and sales of individual chemical substances, its scope includes what the regulations term “preparations” and “articles”. This later term is wide ranging and can include cars, telephones – and batteries (2). However, under the section “Substances” in “articles” (3) the following statement effectively exempts the Power-Sonic range of VRLA batteries and other rechargeable batteries and cells: “…notification is not required…when exposure to humans and environment can be excluded during normal conditions of use, including disposal. Additionally,EUROBAT, which represents the European automotive and industrial battery industry, has produced extensive guidelines which declare the battery industry as a downstream user having no registration obligations(4). The guidelines note certain obligations that REACH defines for downstream users in their communications along the supply chain (5). These involve the preparation and availability of EC safety data sheets. Power-Sonic U.S.A. and Power-Sonic Europe have their Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) available for download on their websites: http://www.power-sonic.com and http://www.power-sonic.co.uk under literature or downloads respectively. Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC) Power-sonic batteries do not contain any of the 16 SVHPs listed by ACHA press release, Helsinki, October 9th 2008. (1) Health and safety Executive website: http://www.hse.gov.uk/reach/about.htm (2) Ibid p.2 (3) http://reach.irc.it/substances articles en.htm (4) Guidelines of EUROBAT for the implementation of the European REACH Regulation Covering the Manufacture and Marketing of Batteries in the European Union December 2007, Section3 available from http://www.eurobat.org (5) Ibid. Section 4.1.
Are your batteries RoHS compliant?
The ROHS directive (Restriction of Hazardous Substances in Electrical Equipment) covers the same scope as the WEEE directive (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment). Batteries and accumulators do not fall into any of the ten categories listed by the WEEE directive (a summary of these categories may be referenced on www.weeenetwork.com ). Therefore, our appropriate response is to declare that our range of products is outside the scope of each of these directives.
Do your batteries contain any of the substances that the EU has listed as Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC)?
Power-Sonic Corporation confirms that the 16 chemical substances mentioned in the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) press release, Helsinki dated 9th October 2008, and listed below, are not present in Power Sonic Valve Regulated Lead Acid batteries. Substance Name – CAS number – EC Number * Anthracene 120-12-7 / 204-371-1*4,4 -Diaminodiphenylmethane 101-77-9 / 202-974-4 *Dibutyl phthalate 84-74-2 / 201-557-4 * Cyclododecane 294-62-2 / 206-33-9 *Cobalt Dichloride 7646-79-9 / 231-589-4 * Diarsenic pentaoxide 1303-28-2 / 215-116-9 * Diarsenic trioxide 1327-53-3 / 215-481-4 • Sodium Dichromate,dehydrate 7789-12-0 / 234-190-3 * 5-tert-butyl-2,4,6-trinitro-m-xylene ( musk xylene ) 81-15-2 / 201-329-4 * Bis (2-ethyl(hexyl)phthalate) (DEHP) 117-81-7 / 204-211-0 *Hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD) 25637-99-4 / 247-148-4 * Alkanes,C10-13,chloro ( short chain chlorinated paraffins) 85535-84-8 / 287-476-5 * Bis(tributylin)oxide 56-35-9 / 200-268-0 *Lead hydrogen arsenate 7784-40-9 / 232-064-2 * Triethyl arsenate 15606-95-8 / 427-700-2 * Benzyl butyl phthalate 85-68-7 / 201-622-7
Safety
I have dropped one of your batteries and it has split open. What should I do about cleaning it up?
Please refer to our Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) Sections 6, 7 and 8 for full information. Please follow these instructions and always ensure that you are wearing acid-resistant clothing, boots, gloves, and face shield. The MSDS in PDF form can be downloaded from the MSDS section of our Data Hub.
Can you please send me MSDS's for each of the batteries we buy from you?
Does overcharging damage batteries?
As a result of too high a charge voltage excessive current will flow into the battery, after the battery has reached full charge. This will cause decomposition of the water in the electrolyte and premature aging. At high rates of overcharge a battery will progressively heat up. As it gets hotter it will accept more current, heating up even further. This is called thermal runaway and it can destroy a battery in as little as a few hours. For further information about charging please refer to our Technical Manual pages 12-19. To access our Technical Manual please visit the SLA Batteries section in our Datahub.
Sales Domestic
Where can I find a distributor?
You are never far away from a distributor for Power-Sonic batteries and chargers. Please contact us for further assistance.
I have a battery that I want to re-order, but I cannot find it on your website. Is this model still available?
We do change, upgrade or delete battery models on a very infrequent basis. Chances are that it has been replaced by another model that will perform equally as well (if not better). Please contact us for further information.
Can I purchase directly from you?
We do not sell direct to members of the public, but we would be delighted to direct you to suitable distributors in your area. Please contact us for further details
What is the SPB Customer Portal?
The SPB Customer Portal is an easy to use online ordering system that allows you to make an order the same ways as if you were to email or call us. To access this simply click on the ‘Customer Portal’ button located on the menu screen of the website, you will then need to either enter login details or use the ‘Apply For Access’ button to request access. Click here to view our FAQ flyer.
Storage and Maintenance
What are the acceptable storage temperatures for your sealed lead acid batteries?
Detailed information can be found in our Technical Manual on page 10. To access our Technical Manual please visit the SLA Batteries section in our Datahub.
We have your batteries in storage, when should they be re-boosted?
Our batteries have a low self-discharge rate which permits storage of a fully charged battery up to a year. However, it is important that a battery be charged within six months after receipt to account for the storage from the date of manufacture to the date of purchase. Otherwise, permanent loss of capacity might occur as a result of sulfation. The rate of self discharge will vary in accordance with the ambient temperature, the higher the temperature the higher the rate of self discharge. More in-depth information is contained in our Technical manual on pages 10 and 11. To access our Technical Manual please visit the SLA Batteries section in our Datahub.
SLA Battery Storage
Our batteries have a low self-discharge rate which permits storage of a fully charged battery up to a year. However, it is important that a battery be charged within six months after receipt to account for the storage from the date of manufacture to the date of purchase. Otherwise, permanent loss of capacity might occur as a result of sulfation. The rate of self-discharge will vary in accordance with the ambient temperature, the higher the temperature the higher the rate of self-discharge.
Warranty
Where can I find warranty information
Warranty information is available through the Warranty Information section of our website click here