Rack Mounted Battery Power for Modern Telecommunication Systems; "Four Years Down the Track"

A review is made of the performance and acceptability of the Powersafe batteries used in Power Rack Telecommunications Systems since the launch of the concept at Intelec 1982. An update is given of the subsequent development of this valve regulated sealed lead acid battery into smaller and larger capacity sizes. Physical and electrical characteristics are given for the extended product range. Typical performance data is given for the product range, in terms of Energy Density; Open Circuit losses; and Recombination Efficiencies. These factors are related to operational characteristics, such as "Design Life", "Maintenance", "Installation", and Safety. A summary is given on the increasing operator interest in the concepts offered by this new "Recombination Technology". This interest is stimulating support for International Standards, and a review is given indicating the prospects for such standardisation. A view is offered on the possibilities for future development of larger capacity valve regulated sealed lead-acid cells.