Essential Safety Distances for Large-Scale Energy Storage
• The distance between battery containers should be 3 meters (long side) and 4 meters (short side). If a firewall is installed, the short side distance can be reduced to 0.5
For battery racks, there shall be a minimum clearance of 25 mm (1 in.) between a cell container and any wall or structure on the side not requiring access for maintenance. Battery stands shall be permitted to contact adjacent walls or structures, provided that the battery shelf has a free air space for not less than 90 percent of its length.
To ensure safety, most regulations such as the Uniform Fire Code and the International Fire Code stipulate a maximum hydrogen concentration below the level of 1% or 25% of the lower explosion limit in a battery room. H = Hydrogen generated, in cubic feet per hour (ft3/hr).
When the battery is operated in a confined space, adequate ventilation should be provided. The battery case is manufactured from high impact ABS plastic resin. It should not be placed in an atmosphere of, or in contact with organic solvents or adhesive materials. Correct terminals should be used on battery connecting wires.
Lead-acid batteries do not lend themselves to fast charging and, with most types, a full charge takes 14 to16 hours. A Lead-acid battery must always be stored at full state-of-charge. Low charge causes sulfation, a condition that robs the battery of performance.
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