Techniques for monitoring and predicting the OCV for VRLA battery systems

This paper provides a simple and advanced technique to monitor and predict the state of health (SOH) and the open circuit voltage (OCV) for valve regulated lead acid (VRLA) battery cells. The underlying principal of the technique described in this paper employs a mathematical model that can simulate different pore geometries shape and a simple equation to predict the equilibrated cell voltage after a small rest period. The technique was tested and analyzed using results obtained from experiments conducted at the Yuasa Battery laboratories. Lead-acid battery system analysis was carried out with reference to the standard battery system models available in the literature. The results indicate that by using this technique, appreciable benefits can be accrued and it is possible to maintain high standard products in safe operating conditions.