fbpx

Battery Configurations – How About Those Vent Tubes!

The Questions:

The Concorde team spends a lot of time providing battery maintenance training to aircraft maintenance technicians.  During the course of the training seminars, we receive some very interesting questions from attendees.  One of the more popular questions concerns vent tubes.  They range from, “why do sealed batteries have them” and “do I really need to attach anything to them?” to “do they make good handles?” 

 

The Answer:

In flooded or open cell batteries the vent valves allow hydrogen gas to escape when the battery is charging.     

In a sealed battery, the AGM separator allows oxygen gas generated from the positive plates to diffuse through its pores to the negative plates and recombine with electrons to form water. This recombination cycle minimizes outgassing from the batteries so that the electrolyte never needs to be replenished or topped up.  This also suppresses the evolution of hydrogen gas.  The end result, because the rate of hydrogen emission is very low, only minimal airflow is needed to dilute the hydrogen to safe levels. Most aircraft battery compartments have sufficient natural airflow so a separate air ventilation system is unnecessary.

Now, let’s circle back to the original question; why do you have a sealed battery with vent tubes?  For installation eligibility vent tubes allow for fit, form function interchangeability with flooded batteries.  When converting from flooded to sealed, if the STC does not require removal of the vent lines, the vent tubes provide a place to secure vent lines so they are not flopping around in the avionics bay or engine compartment. When the natural airflow is not sufficient, RG Series batteries are available with vent tubes for connection to air ventilation systems.

Concorde recommends using battery handles where provided. Picking up the battery by the vent tubes can result in damage to the vent tubes or vent tube breakage!

Continue reading
959 Hits

Note on TBM Battery Operations Between Flights AND BatteryMINDer Usage

Note on TBM Battery Operations Between Flights AND BatteryMINDer Usage
By John M Grunsfeld PhD
 

Detailed guidance on maintaining the battery life and performance for TBM aircraft.

Three key takeaways include:

  1. Optimal Battery Maintenance Practices: For aircraft not in use for more than 7 days, it's recommended to disconnect the fully charged battery and top charge it with a BatteryMINDer every 90 days for 24 hours, and also the day before the next flight, or keep it connected to a BatteryMINDer continuously until the next flight.

  2. Battery Life Considerations: Continuous charging might slightly shorten battery life due to constant voltage charging, although the impact is minimized by maintaining a reduced voltage level. Disconnecting the battery when not in use reduces parasitic loads and minimizes sulfation, thereby extending battery life.

  3. Remote Management Solutions: For remote management of the battery charging process, it's possible to use a remote switch connected between the BatteryMINDer and battery clips, which can be controlled via cell phone text commands or Wi-Fi, allowing for convenient and efficient battery maintenance.

Read full article here

 
 
Continue reading
Tags:
1390 Hits

FAA Approves Concorde Battery Lead Acid Solution for Gulfstream GV and GV-SP Aircraft

WEST COVINA, CA -- Gulfstream GV and GV-SP operators now have an option to install highly reliable, low maintenance, sealed lead acid Concorde batteries using FAA approved STC ST01097DE. The STC provides for installation of RG-380E/53L, 53 ampere-hour batteries using kit 5-0730. The kit includes battery trays and hold down bars that work in conjunction with the existing mount to accommodate the footprint of the RG-380E/53L battery without modification to the aircraft. Kit 5-0730 also includes Gulfstream Charge Adaptors (P/N 9713) which connect to the aircraft side battery charger temperature sensing plugs. These are used as part of the Picture2.pngprocess of placing the chargers in TR Mode. The parts in the kit require a single installation and are reusable for the lifeof the installation. This simple configuration provides for an easy retrofit. in TR Mode. The parts in the kit require a single installation and are reusable for the life of the installation. This simple configuration provides for an easy retrofit. 

 

The benefits of Concorde Battery installations realized by Gulfstream G350 and G450 operators for years are now available to GV and GV-SP operators including reduced battery cost per flight hour, simplified maintenance requirements, reliability and safety. Concorde sealed lead acid batteries do not require deep cycling, water replenishment or temperature monitoring because there is no threat of thermal runaway. They ship Hazmat Exempt and can be transported by land, air or sea without special provisions. Additionally, Concorde batteries are fully recyclable. 

 

FAA Approves Concorde Battery for Gulfstream GV GV SP Aircraft2Concorde RG® batteries are 24.0 volt nominal voltage batteries. They can float directly on the DC buss without a special overcharge function. The nominal voltage of the existing nickel cadmium batteries is 25.2 volts which requires a high charge voltage. To preventovercharging, the GV / GV-SP battery chargers are placed in TR Mode reducing the charge voltage to 27.75 volts. Lower stabilized voltages after the “Initial Powerup Test” for the GV-SP are due to the difference in nominal voltage but this does not impact aircraft performance per type trials conducted. A small trade-off for the increased savings with Concorde.

 

 

                         .                           

 

Shown top to bottom: RG-380E/53L Battery and 7489 Battery Tray part of the 5-0730 Ki

Continue reading
3504 Hits

Concorde Battery Corporation Opens Registration for 2023 Virtual & In Person Maintenance Training Events

Concorde IARenewalSeries

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


October 18, 2022

Concorde Battery Corporation Opens Registration for 2023 Virtual & In Person Maintenance Training Events


WEST COVINA, CA – Registration is now available for Concorde Battery Corporation’s 2023 Virtual IA Renewal Series and the in-person IA Renewal event at Midlands Technical college in West Columbia, South Carolina. These free aviation maintenance training sessions are available to inspectors, maintenance professionals, pilots, operators, aviation professionals, students and enthusiasts.
Virtual Events –
The 3rd Annual Virtual IA Renewal Series provides access to 8 hours of maintenance training by prominent speakers worldwide from the comfort of your device. Distinguished speakers teach one-hour courses on Piston, Turbine and Rotorcraft specific topics. Each series runs for four hours over two days and is available in a morning (8 AM – 12 PM EST) and evening (5 PM – 9PM EST) session to accommodate worldwide audiences. Each session is eligible for up to 8 hours of IA and FAA WINGS credit.
The Virtual IA Renewal Series dates are –

Concorde Battery Piston Virtual IA Renewal Series–
January 12 & 13, 2023
2022 IA Piston Logo Maroon CUT 
Concorde Battery Turbine Virtual IA Renewal Series –
January 19 & 20, 2023
 2022 IA Turbine Logo Maroon CUT

Concorde Battery Rotorcraft Virtual IA Renewal Series –

January 26 & 27, 2023

 2022 IA Rotorcraft Logo Maroon CUT

 

West Columbia, South Carolina – February 4, 2023

IA SouthCarolinaLogo V1

2023 marks the revival of an in-person Concorde IA Renewal Series event. For its 23rd year, the South Carolina IA Renewal will be back at Midlands College in West Columbia, South Carolina. This full day event will take place from 8 AM – 5 PM Saturday, February 4th, 2023. Registration begins at 7 AM. The day will include a catered lunch by Sweet Magnolias of Pelion, SC, door prize raffles throughout the day, and presenters who are eager to interact with you once again. This year’s event includes your option of speakers during hours 2-7 so you may cater your day to your preferences.

 

For more information on speakers and to register for a Concorde IA Renewal Series event visit www.concordebattery.com. Access IA Renewal information by clicking on the 2023 IA Renewal Series graphics on the homepage or through the Training drop down menu.

 

Concorde Battery Corporation is pleased to facilitate aviation maintenance education for all; IA status is not required.
We look forward to hosting the Concorde Virtual IA Renewal Series again in 2023 and sincerely hope you will join us!
For more details, contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

 

Concorde Battery Corporation | 2009 San Bernardino Road | West Covina, CA 91790 U.S.A.
www.concordebattery.com | ISO 9001 & AS9100

 

Continue reading
5284 Hits

Can not locate wiring changes made when ACFT went from NiCad to Lead-acid

 

Skip2020 V2

 

 

 

 

 

Skip's Corner

 

 

 

Can not locate wiring changes made when ACFT went from NiCad to Lead-acid

 

 

The Question –

Working on King Air 300 FA-85 with RG380E/44 installed. Have a minor issue with the Battery charge annunciator and can not locate wiring changes made when ACFT went from NiCad to Lead acid. If you could assist or point me in a direction who could please do? Thanks for your time.

 

The Answer –

The CONCORDE King Air STC does not disable this system. The light is on as long as at least 7 to 10 amps are charging the battery. Normally, with a healthy battery the light goes out before takeoff.

Most of the NiCad's are 20 cell and the charging system is set upwards of 29DCV which is too high for our 24V batteries resulting in the charge light staying on for a long time. THE CHARGING SYSTEM MUST BE SET PER THE BEECH MM AT 28 TO 28.5 DCV for Concorde Sealed Lead Acid Batteries.

The reason we like to leave the charge light system functional is that it is a CURRENT SENSING SYSTEM. If the light comes on during flight it indicates signs of an internal short. The pilot merely disconnects the battery. If later the generating system were to fail this battery that is fully charged can be put back on line to support the load requirements.

Other approvals provide the option to ground the system rendering the system inoperable if the charge light is a nuisance to the operator.

 

Continue reading
5645 Hits

FAA APPROVED 2022 VIRTUAL IA RENEWAL SERIES

2022 IA Virtual Logo Maroon

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

September 17, 2021

 

CONCORDE BATTERY CORPORATION OPENS REGISTRATION FOR

FAA APPROVED 2022 VIRTUAL IA RENEWAL SERIES

 

WEST COVINA, CA -- In 2021 nearly 3000 participants joined Concorde’s virtual seminars.  Viewer feedback was overwhelmingly positive with great suggestions for future events. To improve the experience for attendees in 2022, Concorde is offering FAA Approved IA Seminars focused on three distinct disciplines – piston, turbine and rotorcraft.  All are welcome at these free events; IA status is not required.

Registration for Concorde’s Virtual IA Renewal Seminars in January 2022 is now open!

The dates are as follows –

2022 IA Piston Logo Maroon sml  Concorde’s Piston Virtual IA Renewal – January 13 & 14, 2022

Cleveland Wheels and Brakes, Tempest Aero, G&N Engines, Hartzell, Lycoming, Eagle Fuel Cells, Concorde Battery & the FAA

 2022 IA Turbine Logo Maroon sml  

Concorde’s Turbine Virtual IA Renewal – January 20 & 21, 2022

Michelin, TAE Aerospace, Collins, Goodrich De-Ice, Hutchinson, Dassault Falcon Jet, Concorde Battery & the FAA

 2022 IA Rotorcraft Logo Maroon sml  Concorde's Rotorcraft IA Renewal – January 27 & 28, 2022

Leonardo, Airbus Helicopters, Champion, Sikorsky, Velocity Aerospace, Standard Aero, Hartzell, Concorde Battery & the FAA

 

Each seminar will be held over two days for 4 hours each day to fulfill the 8-hour IA training requirement.  For the convenience of attendees around the world, each day two session will be available at 8 AM to 12 PM EST or 5 PM to 9PM EST. The speakers and content will be the same during each daily time block, but the choice will allow you to select the time block that best suits your schedule. 

 

Registration is required and will be closed when capacity is met.  This year registration will be completed through a new Concorde User Portal.  In order to register for the events, you will generate a login.  Once you have registered you can participate in one, two or all three events with the click of a button.  The portal delivers visibility to your course registration and will provide you with your unique access key to the seminar. After the seminar is over and participation has been validated, certificates will be loaded to the portal.  If you use the same email address to register for the portal as you have for past events, certificates from previous sessions will also be loaded to the portal for your availability.  You can access registration by visiting www.concordebattery.com and clicking on the 2022 IA Renewal Series graphic on the homepage. 

 

Concorde Battery Corporation values education, which is paramount to the industry’s safety and success.  With a focus on educating operators on battery airworthiness and maximizing the life of your battery, Concorde Battery Corporation also provides training opportunities throughout the year.

We look forward to hosting the Concorde Virtual IA Renewal Series again in 2022 and sincerely hope you will join us! 

 

For more details, contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Continue reading
11969 Hits

Concorde Battery Corporation is Excited to Engage at Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo 2021

April 8, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Concorde Battery Corporation is Excited to Engage at Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo 2021 – $50 Gift Card Show Special & Forum Talks

 

WEST COVINA, CA – After an unforeseen year of pandemic and postponement, Sun N Fun Aerospace Expo resumes operations April 13 through April 18, 2021, on their grounds in Lakeland FL. After a year away, Concorde Battery representatives are excited to see you in person. Join Concorde Battery in Hangar B booths #050-051!

 

In support of participation in the Sun n Fun Aerospace Expo 2021, Concorde is offering a show special. During the Expo, if you purchase a Concorde RG® Series battery either upgrading to or replacing your current RG® battery, you will receive a $50 Visa Gift Card. The offer is applicable to each battery purchased on-site at Sun N Fun. The VISA Gift Card can be used anywhere VISA is accepted! Purchase your battery from a Concorde Authorized Distributor, Wilco in Hangar A Booth #069-070, or Aircraft Spruce in Hangar B Booth #001-009. Then, bring your receipt to Concorde’s Booth in Hangar B, #050-051, and we will provide you with a $50 VISA card. To be eligible, RG® Series Batteries must be purchased on-site and each customer must present the receipt, or receipts, in person at the Concorde Battery booth to claim the VISA gift card.

 

Want to learn more about how to maximize the life of your Concorde battery? Concorde’s Chris Holder will be presenting Aircraft Battery Airworthiness 2021 during Forum sessions Tuesday, April 13, Thursday, April 15 and Friday, April 16 at 10 AM EDT. This course will teach you everything you need to know about caring for your sealed lead acid battery to maintain an airworthy battery and maximize the value of your investment.

 

Concorde Battery Corporation is recognized and respected worldwide as the manufacturer of premium valve regulated sealed lead acid aircraft batteries. For over 40 years Concorde has supplied the US and foreign militaries, has been the preference by airframe manufacturers for OE installations and is the top choice for business and general aviation aircraft operators universally.

 

(Adobe PDF)

 

For more information contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Phone 626-813-1234

www.concordebattery.com

Continue reading
8743 Hits

Over 2,500 Trained In Virtual IA Events in 2021

March 31, 2021

Concorde Battery Corporation Trains Over 2,500 In Virtual IA Events this Year

 

WEST COVINA, CA, USA ‐‐ Early 2020 saw the last of in‐person events including the Concorde Battery IA (Inspection Authorization) Renewal Series hosted annually at key locations throughout the country. Rather than cancel Concorde’s IA recurrent training events in 2021, Concorde pivoted, and created Concorde’s Virtual IA Renewal Series that provided the opportunity for airmen to complete the training necessary to renew their IA certificate through virtual classes provided free of charge. 

 

The inaugural Virtual IA Renewal Series event in January had nearly 1500 attendees via virtual connection. This was the largest IA Seminar ever held and included participants from all over the world. In March, Concorde presented the Northeast Concorde Battery Virtual IA Renewal Series in conjunction with the Westchester Aircraft Maintenance Association (WAMA). This event provided a last‐minute opportunity to complete IA Renewal Training ahead of the March 31 application deadline. Concorde Battery Corporation representatives also participated in online courses eligible for IA and AMT credit hosted by the Helicopter Association International (HAI), universities, colleges, associations and the FAA across the nation this year. These virtual events resulted in training of more than 2,500 individuals in 2021. 

 

“The industry needed it. Concorde stepped up big this year,” confirms Dave Schiavone, Area Sales Manager and host of the Concorde Northeast Virtual IA Renewal Series. “We continue to support HAI, NBAA, along with aviation organizations like PAMA, WAMA (Happy Anniversary to WAMA for 60 years in operation!), and LIBAA – Long Island Business Aviation Association. There was little opportunity for these professionals to train for IA recertification in 2021 – we had to find a way to present this information.” 

 

“Concorde Battery Corporation has provided IA training in South Carolina for 23 years. When several IA seminars in Florida and Tennessee were shuttered in 2017, Concorde Battery revived those seminars in order to provide continuity for those technicians to recertify each year,” said Chris Holder, Eastern US Sales Manager and founder of the South Carolina IA Seminar. “As the 2020 pandemic set in, it immediately became clear to us that thousands of IAs across the nation would soon be in a precarious position regarding their Inspection Authorization certification renewal – and something had to be planned.” 

 

“What continues to stand out with regard to the Concorde IA Renewal Series is the quality of the speakers at each event,” Dave said. “Our lineup of presenters ‐ Collins Aerospace, JSSI, CAMP, Champion Aerospace, Michelin Aircraft Tire, Dassault Falcon Jet, Honeywell Aerospace, WAMA, and the FAA Safety Team ‐ are recognized in the aviation industry as exceptional instructors. Their knowledge regarding their product and aspects of safety in the industry is what sets them apart. We could not have done it without them.” 

 

“Each year, I’m approached by attendees who are so grateful – and a little surprised – at the quality of the training that is provided at the Concorde Battery IA Renewal Series. Being involved in these seminars for a quarter century gives you an opportunity to listen to hundreds of speakers,” Mr. Holder added. “That has allowed me to identify folks like Tim Gauntt (Hartzell), Vince Bechtel (Tempest), Dennis Wyman (G&N Aircraft Engines), Vern Rogers (Cleveland Wheel & Brake) and so many others who are very passionate – as I am – about providing the right information to the technician in a way that is both entertaining and informative.” The FAA has also adopted a virtual submission process utilizing the web based IACRA, Integrated Airmen Certification and Rating Application portal for Inspection Authorization Renewal applications as an alternative to mail or in person application processes. For a guide, visit: IACRA ‐ Federal Aviation Administration (faa.gov) Concorde Battery Corporation highly values education. It is paramount to the industry’s safety and success. With a focus on educating operators on battery airworthiness and maximizing the life of your battery, Concorde Battery Corporation provides training opportunities throughout the year through our IA Renewal Series, engagement with pilot groups, technical seminars and individual training opportunities.

For more information on Concorde Battery Corporation and future events please visit www.concordebattery.com .

 

(Adobe PDF)

 

For more details, contact:
Customer‐service@concordebattery.

Continue reading
8724 Hits

Free FAA Approved Aviation Training Day / Virtual IA Renewal Series on March 19, 20 & 27, 2021

PRESS RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 28, 2021

Free FAA Approved Aviation Training Day / Virtual IA Renewal Series on March 19, 20 & 27, 2021 Presented by Concorde Battery Corporation, FAASTeam, & Westchester Aircraft Maintenance Association

 

WEST COVINA, CA – Concorde® Battery Corporation proudly presents the second event in the 2021 IA Renewal Series with support of the FAASTeam and Westchester Aviation Maintenance Association (WAMA). TheIA NorthEast Virtual Logo FINAL HR Northeast Virtual Aviation Training Day / IA Renewal is an opportunity for Mechanics & Technicians to earn 8 hours of recurrent IA training credit and 8 hours of AMT credit.

 

This free event will be held online due to the impact of the pandemic through GoToWebinar. The online training will be completed in 4 hours sessions over two days. A makeup session will be offered March 27 for anyone who was unable to attend March 19 or March 20. 50 minute training sessions will be presented by experts in aviation including airframe manufacturers, OE parts manufacturers, maintenance professionals and FAA officials.

 

Speakers include Dassault® Falcon Jet, Bombardier, CAMP, Champion Aerospace, Honeywell Aerospace, JSSI, Michelin Aircraft Tires, Concorde Battery Corporation, FAA Safety Team, WAMA Members and more. Registration is open through March 5, 2021! Online registration is required at www.aircraft-battery.com.

 

Following completion of sessions and confirmation of participation, AMT credit will be applied for each 4 hour session participants complete. A certificate of completion will also be emailed to attendees reflecting the completion of the 8 hour IA Renewal course.

 

Committed to continuing education in aviation, Concorde proudly supports Aviation Maintenance Technicians. Concorde Battery Corporation has been manufacturing lead acid batteries for over 40 years at the corporate headquarters in West Covina, CA and now also in Austell, GA. Concorde Batteries are preferred by global airframe manufacturers as original equipment. Concorde also supplies certified batteries to civilian, business & military markets. www.concordebattery.com .

 

For more information contact: Concorde Battery Customer Service and Support Phone 626-813-1234 Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

Continue reading
9042 Hits

11-8-20 - Concorde Battery Announces FREE Virtual IA Renewal Series

 

Concorde Battery announces free virtual IA Renewal Series January 21-23, 2021 from 8 AM – 12 PM PST (11am - 3pm EST).

  • FAA Approved IA Refresher Training Event – Leave with your 8-hour certificate
  • Free Event
  • Select 2 of the 3 days available
  • Online - Space is limited
  • Register here

 

(Acrobat Version - PDF)

Continue reading
8205 Hits

10-30-20 - Concorde Battery Corporation Receives NEW STC for RG-641 Battery Installation on Enstrom 480/480B models

Concorde Battery has received FAA STC SR01067DE approving installation of RG-641, lead acid main battery, on Enstrom 480/480B models. RG-641 has been designed as a drop-in replacement for the original equipment lead acid battery on the helicopter; no kit or hardware is required to convert.

 

(Acrobat Version - PDF)

Continue reading
8241 Hits

Thermal Runaway in AGM Batteries : Skip's Corner

Skip Corner

 

 

 

 

 

Skip's Corner

 

 

 

Can AGM Batteries Suffer Thermal Runaway like Lithium Ion Batteries?

 

 

The Question –

Can AGM Batteries suffer thermal runaway like Lithium Ion Batteries: Are they safe?

 

The Answer –

Does everyone know that when our RG series batteries are subject to the destructive overcharge test that they do NOT thermally runaway?

They get HOT about 260F, the electrolyte boils, the water turns to steam and the excessive internal pressure opens the vent valves releasing the steam (H20) NO ACID is expelled.  This continues for about 10 minutes and as soon as the battery runs out of water the charge current stops and the battery starts to cool down to ambient.

 

Continue reading
9059 Hits

8-10-2020 Concorde Battery Higher Capacity RG-41/53 for Piper M500 & M600 Receives FAA STC Approval

Concorde Battery Corporation is pleased to announce the latest addition to the Platinum Series� Turbine starting lineup, the RG-41/53. This robust 53 Ah AGM battery is TSO-C173a approved and eligible for installation in Piper PA-46-500TP and PA-46-600TP aircraft with FAA STC SA01050DE. The STC approves installation of the RG-41/53 battery in place of Piper Part Number 601-910. It is eligible for use on aircraft registered in the United States and those in Canada under Staff Instruction (SI) 513-003.

 

M500 3

 

(Acrobat Version - PDF)

Continue reading
8788 Hits

Arcing Conditions : Skips Corner

Skip Corner

 

 

 

 

 

Skip's Corner

 

 

 

Arcing Conditions

 

 

The Question –

We have an RG380E/44 battery, S/N: 40450578 that has slight arcing on the negative battery terminal from a loose connection at the connector. We have replaced the aircraft connector but I cannot find any information in the CMM, (5-0171, Rev P), regarding how to repair this condition. Can you advise on how to repair so that I have manufacturers data/recommendations for repair and return to service please?

 

The Answer –

The battery terminal pins are .375 or 3/8” in diameter. Make sure you remove any copper deposits from the plug socket terminals so the pins will have maximum contact with the airframe plug sockets.

Make a go-no-go gage from a 3/8 drill rod or bolt that you can use to check ALL YOUR AIRFRAME PLUG SOCKETS. There needs to be enough tension on each socket, so that the 3/8” diameter gage will not slip out when the airframe plug is inverted.

The battery terminal pins are silver plated, protect them from corrosion using ACF-50 in the plug sockets.

 

Continue reading
8570 Hits

Battery Safety – How Does This Affect You

 

 

All safety precautions are covered in our component maintenance manuals, more commonly known as the CMMs. There's a CMM for RG series main aircraft batteries and a separate CMM for RG series emergency aircraft batteries. The safety aspects are the same in both CMMs. A list of the safety hazards is shown on the screen. These include, A, low capacity hazard, B, electrical burn hazard, C, danger of exploding batteries, D, chemical burn hazard, and E, damage to equipment.

 

Regarding the low capacity hazard, the FAA generally requires aircraft batteries to provide backup power in the event of a generator system failure. Never use a battery that has less than 80% of its rated capacity and never jumpstart an aircraft that has a dead or a discharged battery. Think aircraft safety, not just battery safety.

 

Regarding the electrical burn hazard, batteries can generate very high levels of current if the terminals are shorted together. The object that causes the short circuit will get very hot due to the high current and will cause a burn hazard. To prevent electrical burns, take off any metallic jewelry such as bracelets and necklaces that could potentially cause a short circuit across the battery terminals. Also, do not allow your belt buckle to contact the battery connector. Getting burned by a shorted belt buckle is more common than you might think. Obviously, it's not a good idea to place tools or other metal objects across battery terminals. For example, you may be tempted to use a steel ruler or a caliper to measure the distance between battery terminals, as some of us have found out the hard way, severe damage to you and the tool can happen pretty rapidly. As an extra precaution, it's a good idea to install battery terminal protectors when the battery is not connected to test equipment.

 

Regarding the danger of exploding batteries, lead acid batteries can cause explosions because they produce hydrogen and oxygen while on charge. However, there should not be any danger of explosion if you take the following precautions. First, make sure the work area is well ventilated so any hydrogen given off by the battery gets adequately diluted. Second, don't smoke, use an open flame or cause sparking near a battery. Remember that there could be local areas of hydrogen build up in the vicinity of the battery even if the work area is well ventilated. Third, wear proper eye protection when servicing batteries such as safety goggles or a face shield. And finally, do not charge a battery at constant current when it is installed in the aircraft. Constant current charging should only be done in a well ventilated area because a significant amount of hydrogen gas may be released from the battery. Battery compartments on most aircraft do not have adequate ventilation to handle the extra volume of hydrogen that is released so this would cause a potential explosion hazard on the aircraft.

 

Regarding the chemical burn hazard, lead acid batteries contain sulfuric acid in the electrolyte which can cause severe chemical burns. To avoid chemical burns, the following precautions should be taken. Never remove or damage the vent valves, avoid contact with the battery's electrolyte if the battery gets cracked or broken open. Don't touch your eyes after touching the battery, wash your hands first. If electrolyte does get into your eyes or on your skin, flush thoroughly with clean, cool water for several minutes and get medical attention as soon as possible. And finally, the last point is regarding equipment damage. To prevent equipment damage, ensure that the aircraft battery switch, external power source or the charger analyzer is in the off position before connecting or disconnecting the battery. If the circuit is not off when making or breaking connections, the battery terminals may arc and cause damage to the battery, equipment cables or both.

 

If these instructions are followed, then all potential safety hazards will be fully mitigated. Also, as a reminder, the CMMs provide full coverage of the safety hazards and precautions.

 

To complete your training, please take time to read the safety summary in the CMM. Also, take time to read the SDS, safety data sheet, for additional information. The CMM and SDS are posted on the Concorde Battery website for easy access. Finally, if you have any questions on this subject, contact Concorde's customer service department. Thank you everyone. Be safe.

 

Continue reading
13323 Hits

Battery Storage and Installation Preparation – Just the Facts Please!

 

Why it is important to properly store an aircraft battery and how to accomplish this?

Proper storage of an aircraft battery is important because it directly impacts the battery's performance capability as well as its total service life. To understand this, let me describe what happens to the battery during storage. When a battery is in storage, it gradually loses charge even though there is no load on the battery. This process is known as self-discharge and is illustrated in the chart shown on the screen. The capacity retention ratio, or state of charge, decays with time and the rate of decay is strongly affected by the storage temperature. The higher the temperature, the faster the battery loses its charge. As a battery self-discharges, the plates become sulfated and the internal resistance of the battery increases. If the sulfate level in the plates gets too high, the battery will take a lot longer to charge and will not last as long.


To actually see sulfation, take a look at the high magnification photos of sulfated plates and un-sulfated plates shown on the screen. The photo on the left shows the sulfated plate with large sulfate crystals. This is what causes the high resistance in the battery. To prevent the sulfate levels from getting too high, the battery needs to be boost charged to get it back to 100% state of charge. The photo on the right shows the plate after charging, which erases the sulfate crystals. Fortunately, a simple check of the battery's open-circuit voltage with a digital multimeter can be used to determine the condition of the battery.


The table shown on the screen summarizes the instructions from the CMM. A fully charged battery will have an OCV of about 13 volts for a 12-volt battery and about 26 volts for a 24-volt battery. While in storage, the OCV should not be allowed to drop below 12.5 volts for a 12-volt battery or below 25.0 volts for a 24-volt battery. The OCV should be checked every two to four months depending on the storage temperature. If the OCV is getting close to these values, the batteries should be boost charged with a constant potential charger.


Note that if the OCV is allowed to drop below the minimum, a capacity test will be necessary before it can be installed in an aircraft. This is to make sure that the sulfated plates can be restored to a good condition, so obviously, it is best to not let the OCV drop below the minimum. The worst thing that you can do is to put the battery on a shelf indefinitely and ignore the battery's state of charge. Eventually, the battery can become so sulfated that it will not recover and will have to be scrapped.


Another thing that is covered in the CMM is the storage temperature. Ideally, the storage temperature should be below 68 degrees F or 20 degrees C. Referring back to the capacity retention chart, you can see why cooler temperatures are preferred. At 20 degrees C, it takes about 15 months to reach 50% state of charge. At 30 degrees C, it only takes nine months to reach 50% state of charge. And at 10 degrees C, it takes well over 18 months to reach 50% state of charge. So, the cooler it is during storage, the longer you can go before a boost charge is necessary. However, if you cannot avoid storing the battery at warmer temperatures, it just means you will have to boost charge the battery more often.

 

One of the popular myths I hear is not to store it on a concrete floor because this will cause the battery to discharge very quickly. Is this correct?

 

No, that is not correct. That myth is a carryover from early automotive batteries that sometimes had acid residue on the case, which could contact the concrete. This would cause a rapid self-discharge of the battery. Today's lead-acid batteries do not have this issue. The only factor that affects the rate at which a battery self-discharges is the ambient temperature. Cooler is always better.

 

I think the easiest way to cover this topic is by referring to the flow chart shown on the screen. First, we want to do a visual inspection to check the overall physical condition of the battery to make sure there are no obvious signs of damage. If you see any damage, don't install the battery because it may not be airworthy and it's not worth the risk. Next, measure the open-circuit voltage of the battery with a digital multimeter. As long as the voltage is equal to or greater than 25.5 volts, the battery can be installed. If the voltage is equal to or greater than 25.0 volts but less than 25.5 volts, then it will need a constant potential boost charge before installing it in the aircraft. If the voltage is less than 25.0 volts, then you will have to charge the battery at constant potential and follow that up with a capacity test.


As long as the battery passes the capacity test, it is acceptable for aircraft installation. Note, that for a 12-volt battery, all of the voltage requirements are cut in half.

The flowchart is included in Appendix B of the CMM. I also want to point out that the CMM is a governing document for servicing Concorde aircraft batteries, and this video does not take the place of the CMM. If you have any questions regarding the CMM, please contact Concorde's customer service department. Thank you, everyone. Be safe.

Continue reading
11629 Hits

Voltage Regulator Overcharging : Skip's Corner

Skip Corner

 

 

 

 

 

Skip's Corner

 

 

 

Voltage Regulator Overcharging

 

 

The Question –

If a voltage regulator is set to 14.1 , how does it not overcharge a 12V battery on a long trip, or when the battery is back fully charged, does the regulator continue to attempt to pump 14.1 into the battery? Would that not eventually dry out the matts?

 

The Answer –

No, first the battery is not fully charged after an engine start or worse if the airplane has been inactive. It will take about 3.5 hours to fully charge the battery, then 14.1 IS NOT OVERCHARGING IT, merely charging it normal at RT, too low at cold temperatures and too high or overcharging it at 100F or higher, look in the O/O manual for recommended charging voltages at temperature.

If the recommended charging voltage at the battery temperature is exceeded then yes, the vent valves will allow water to be consumed and the battery will dry out, but this rarely ever happens.

 

Continue reading
8343 Hits

Amp Meter/Volt Meter Oscillation : Skip's Corner

Skip Corner

 

 

 

 

 

Skip's Corner

 

 

 

Amp Meter/Volt Meter Oscillation

 

 

The Question –

Battery SN 40858991 was installed 4/4/17 @ 3159.69 hrs, removed 4/16/17 @ 3162.86 hrs. Induced amp meter and Volt meter oscillation. (And panel lights) Old battery worked perfect when re installed. Why?

 

The Answer –

This is the old-style magnetic coil relay voltage regulator that is not fast enough to dampen the overvoltage charging that happens with an RG battery that has lower internal resistance than a flooded battery that has fewer plates per cell.

The older voltage regulator recognizes the battery is going OVER the CP limit and shuts the generator or alternator off, but the battery not being fully charged voltage starts to drop below the normal charging voltage , then the voltage regulator senses it, and the magnetic coil relay contacts close and the fast charge starts again until the battery goes over voltage again.

These events are rapid within seconds, but all electrics either go off and on, or lights flicker as the ammeter is fluctuating from charge to discharge and back and forth.

Two ways to fix the problem - replace the old voltage regulator or alternator control unit with a solid state, or go back to using an old fashioned flooded electrolyte battery.

 

Continue reading
7807 Hits

Short Duty Cycles : Skip's Corner

Skip Corner

 

 

 

 

 

Skip's Corner

 

 

 

Short Duty Cycles

 

 

The Question –

Do short duty cycles have an effect on battery longevity?

 

The Answer -

I will attempt to explain why ANY aircraft battery is NOT designed to perform satisfactorily with short durations of being recharged between the high rate of current of discharge (capacity) required to make a successful turbine engine starts.

Think of the storage battery as being like a bucket of water. With an open top that is full (charged capacity) that you can dump or spill as much as you want rapidly (loss of capacity) BUT you only have a limited volume of water capacity to refill the empty bucket because of your resupplying water filling pipe or hose, so you cannot replenish the capacity lost that you had quickly dumped for some reasonable time before the bucket is full (capacity) again.

Storage batteries are something like this, they can release high rates of power to crank a turbine engine from its static or stopped condition to the starter/generator that is also not moving and because it takes hundreds of amperes to overcome this stalled condition to get all the rotating components moving (at least ten percent of the capacity is used to motor the engine) to draw the cool air into the compressor section BEFORE the compressed air is introduced to the combustion section where fuel is ignited and the fire and super-heated air impinges on the turbine to provide enough energy to have the turbine drive the compressor so the electric starter motor than can be shut off.

Usually aircraft turbine starting batteries have enough stored energy (capacity) to make three successful starts before their capacity is drained to the point of causing a hot or aborted start

A storage battery in a poor state of charge (SOC) or health (worn out below the minimum airworthiness requirement) will and do cause hot starts the ruin the turbine engine, IF the battery DOES NOT HAVE ENOUGH CAPACITY to keep the starter motor turning the engine , driving the compressor and forcing the hot air back to drive the turbine until the turbine can drive the compressor, then the engine stalls and the hot air and flames are allowed to back-up into the aluminum compressor section causing EXPENSIVE engine overhauls or replacements

My first suggestion would be to modify your 350/355’s with the Canadian Airbus Helicopter STC to install our 28Ah P/N RG-390E in the tail boom.

Second install a spare battery, I believe Airbus Helicopters has a SB for dual batteries, If not AIRLIFT in Norway does.

Third, carry a start stick by STARTPAC .

 

 

 

Continue reading
8281 Hits

Bulging Batteries : Skip's Corner

Skip Corner

 

 

 

 

 

Skip's Corner

 

 

 

Bulging Batteries

  

The Question –

Is a sealed battery airworthy if it is bulging?

 

The Answer –

Yes, this is normal when the internal gas pressure is higher than the outside atmospheric pressure, it’s a GOOD sign as each cell pressure relief valve is not leaking.

The cell pressure relief valves remain closed normally but do burp occasionally to relieve excess internal pressure while in service. The recombinant gas battery requires a positive internal pressure to operate normally.

The case will go concave if the aircraft makes a rapid descent from a high altitude.

ALL rechargeable batteries of any type are called “secondary” and ALL have pressure relief valves to prevent the battery case from rupturing or bursting due to high gas pressure that may be caused by overcharging with higher than recommended voltage from either internal or external power. Sometimes this happens to batteries that are shipped in a charged state that are of normal shape at the time of shipment and are subject to either higher or lower atmospheric pressure during transit.

See Page 9 of Document Number 5-0324 “ CONCORDE RG SERIES AIRCRAFT BATTERY OWNER/OPERATOR MANUAL “ packed with each battery.

 

 

 

Continue reading
8420 Hits

 

  •  
    2009 W San Bernardino Rd
    West Covina, CA 91790
  •  
    Call Us Now

    626-813-1234