PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT, SEPTEMBER 2008CD/K/04-2:2003 
ICS 27.160.20; 27.180  
 
© EAC 2008 First Edition 2008 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
EAST AFRICAN STANDARD 
 
Batteries for use in photovoltaic power systems — Specification —  
 
Part 2: 
Modified lead acid batteries  
 
 
  
PUBLIC REVIEW DRA FT, SEPTEMBER 2008  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
   
 
 
 
EAST AFRICAN COMMUNITY  
 PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT, SEPTEMBER 2008CD/K/04-2:2003  
ii © EAC 2008 — All rights reserved  
 
Foreword 
 
Development of the East African Standards ha s been necessitated by the need for harmonizing 
requirements governing quality of products and serv ices in East Africa. It is envisaged that through 
harmonized standardization, trade barriers which are encountered when goods and services are 
exchanged within the Comm unity will be removed.  
 
In order to meet the above objectives, the EAC Partner States have enacted an East African 
Standardization, Quality Assurance, Metrology an d Test Act, 2006 (EAC SQMT Act, 2006) to make 
provisions for ensuring standardization, quality as surance, metrology and testing of products 
produced or originating in a third country and traded in  the Community in order to facilitate industrial 
development and trade as well as helping to protect the health and safety of society and the 
environment in the Community. 
 East African Standards are formulat ed in accordance with the proc edures established by the East 
African Standards Committee. The East Afri can Standards Committee is established under the 
provisions of Article 4 of the EAC SQMT Act, 2006. The Committee is composed of representatives of the National Standards Bodies in Partner States, t ogether with the representatives from the private 
sectors and consumer organizations. Draft East African Standards are circ ulated to stakeholders 
through the National Standards Bodies in the Pa rtner States. The comments received are discussed 
and incorporated before finalization of standards, in accordance with the procedures of the 
Community.   Article 15(1) of the EAC SQMT Act, 2006 provides t hat “Within six months of the declaration of an 
East African Standard, the Partner States shall adopt, without deviation from the approved text of the 
standard, the East African Standard as a nationa l standard and withdraw any existing national 
standard with similar scope and purpose”. 
 
East African Standards are subject to review, to keep  pace with technological advances. Users of the 
East African Standards are therefore expected to ensure that they  always have the latest versions of 
the standards they are implementing.  
 
© East African Community 2008 — All rights reserved
* 
East African Community  
P O Box 1096  
Arusha  
Tanzania  Tel: 255 27 2504253/8 
Fax: 255-27-2504481/2504255 
E-Mail: eac@eachq.org
 
Web: www.each.int 
                                                 
* © 2008 EAC — All rights of exploitation in any form and by an y means reserved worldwide for EAC Partner States’ NSBs.  
 PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT, SEPTEMBER 2008CD/K/04-2:2003  
© EAC 2008 — All rights reserved iii  
Introduction 
 
The IEC 62257 series of documents intends to prov ide to different players involved in rural 
electrification projects (such as project implem enters, project contractors, project supervisors, 
installers, etc.) documents for the setting up of rene wable energy and hybrid systems with a.c. voltage 
below 500 V, d.c. voltage below 750 V and power below 100 kVA. 
 These documents are recommendations: 
 
⎯ to choose the right system for the right place; 
 
⎯ to design the system; 
 
⎯ to operate and maintain the system. 
 These documents are focused only on rural electrif ication concentrating on but not specific to 
developing countries. They must not be considered as  all inclusive to rural electrification. The 
documents try to promote the use of renewable energies in rural electr ification; they do not deal with 
clean mechanisms developments at this time (CO
2 emission, carbon credit, etc.). Further 
developments in this field could be introduced in future steps. 
 
This consistent set of documents is best consider ed as a whole with different parts corresponding to 
items for safety, sustainability of systems and at the lowe st life cycle cost as possible. One of the 
main objectives is to provide the minimum sufficient requirements, relevant to the field of application 
that is: small renewable energy and hybrid off-grid systems. 
 
For rural electrification project using PV systems, it  is recommended to use solar batteries defined in 
CD/K/04-1:2003.   PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT, SEPTEMBER 2008CD/K/04-2:2003  
iv © EAC 2008 — All rights reserved  
Contents 
 
1 Scope ....................................................................................................................... .................. 1 
2 Normative re ferences ........................................................................................................ ......... 1 
3 Terms and de finitions ....................................................................................................... .......... 1 
4 Batteries and battery mana gement system selection ................................................................ 3 
4.1 Battery technica l characteristics ......................................................................................... ....... 3 
4.1.1 Battery  cases ........................................................................................................... .................. 3 
4.1.2 Battery termi nals and pl ates ............................................................................................ .......... 3 
4.1.3 Elec trolyte ............................................................................................................. ..................... 3 
4.2 Comparat ive tests ......................................................................................................... ............. 4 
4.2.1 Evaluation of the charge and discharge current for testing ( Itest) ............................................... 4 
4.2.2 Test 1: Batte ry endurance  test .......................................................................................... ......... 5 
4.2.3 Test 2: Endurance test for batte ry + BMS ................................................................................ .. 9 
4.2.4 Test 3: Battery  storabilit y test ........................................................................................ ........... 11 
5 Documentation ............................................................................................................... .......... 12 
6 Installati on rules .......................................................................................................... ............. 13 
6.1 Packing and shipping ...................................................................................................... ......... 13 
6.2 Envir onment ............................................................................................................... .............. 14 
6.3 Battery accomm odation, housing ............................................................................................ . 14 
6.3.1 Provision against  electrolyte hazard .................................................................................... .... 14 
6.3.2 Prevention of short circuits and protection from other effects of electric current ..................... 15 
6.3.3 Battery enclosures ...................................................................................................... ............. 16 
6.4 Final in spection .......................................................................................................... .............. 16 
6.5 Safety .................................................................................................................... ................... 16 
6.5.1 Safety provisions ....................................................................................................... ............... 16 
6.5.2 Safety information ...................................................................................................... .............. 17 
6.6 Administrative  formalities ................................................................................................ ......... 17 
6.7 Recycling ................................................................................................................. ................. 17 
Annex B (normative)  Safety labelling ......................................................................................... .......... 18 
 
 PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT, SEPTEMBER 2008CD/K/04-2:2003  
© EAC 2008 — All rights reserved  1  
Batteries for use in photovoltaic power systems — Specification — 
Part 2: Modified lead acid batteries 
  
1 Scope 
 
This East African Standard specifies requirements and a simplified regime of methods of test for 
modified lead acid batteries for use in photovoltaic power systems.  
The standard also provides regulations and installation conditions to be complied with in order to ensure the life and proper operati on of the installations as well as the safety of people living in 
proximity to the installation. 
 
2 Normative references 
 
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated 
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated  references, the latest edition of the referenced 
document (including any amendments) applies. 
 
IEC 60050-482, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary (IEV) — Part 482: Primary and secondary 
cells and batteries  
 
CD/K/04-1:2003, Secondary cells and batteries  for photovoltaic energy systems (PVES) — General 
requirements and methods of test 
 
EAS 121, Water for lead acid batteries — Specification  
 EAS 122, Sulfuric acid — Specification  
 
EAS 363-2, Solar photovoltaic power systems — Test procedures for main components — Part 2: 
Installation, maintenance, test ing and replacement of batteries  
 
IEC 62257 (all parts), Recommendations for small renewable energy and hybrid systems for rural 
electrification  
 
3 Terms and definitions 
 
For the purposes of this East African Standard, the terms and defin itions for secondary cells and 
batteries given in IEC 60050-482 and the following apply.  
3.1 
electrochemical cell or battery 
electrochemical system capable of storing in chemical form the el ectric energy received and which 
can give it back by conversion 
 
3.2 
secondary cell 
cell which is designed to be electrically recharged 
 
NOTE The recharge is accomplished by way of a reversible chemical reaction. [IEV 482-01-03] 
 
3.3 
storage battery (secondary battery) two or more secondary cells connected together and used as a source of electric energy 
 
3.4 lead-acid battery storage battery in which the electrodes are made main ly from lead and the electrolyte is a sulfuric acid 
solution  EAST AFRICAN STANDARD PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT, SEPTEMBER 2008CD/K/04-2:2003  
2 © EAC 2008 — All rights reserved 3.5 
terminal (pole) 
conductive part provided for the connection of a cell or battery to external conductors 
 
3.6 
density commonly considered as the volumic mass, in kg / dm
3 
 
NOTE Density is also defined as a dimens ionless magnitude expressing the ratio of the electrolyte mass to the water mass 
occupying the same volume at 4 °C. 
 
3.7 electrolyte 
liquid or solid substance containing mobile ions which render it ionically conductive 
 
NOTE The electrolyte may be liquid, solid or a gel. [IEV 482-02-29] 
 
3.8 
dry charged battery 
state of delivery of some types of secondary batte ry where the cells contain no electrolyte and the 
plates are dry and in a charged state 
[IEV 482-05-30] 
 
3.9 
self-discharge 
phenomenon by which a cell or battery loses energy in  other ways than by discharge into and external 
circuit 
[IEV 482-03-27] 
 
3.10 
observed battery capacity 
quantity of electricity or electrical charge that a ba ttery in high state of charge can deliver under the 
proposed test conditions. In practice, battery  capacity is expressed in Ampere-hours(Ah) 
 
3.11 
nominal capacity 
suitable approximate quantity of electricity, used to identify the capacity of a cell or a battery 
 
NOTE This value is usually expressed in Ampere-hours (Ah). 
 
3.12 
rated capacity (of a cell or a battery) quantity of electricity, declared by the manufactu rer, which a cell or a battery can deliver under 
specified conditions after a full charge  
NOTE 1 The rated capacity shown on the battery label is gi ven for a discharge period whic h depends on the technology used 
in the battery. 
 
NOTE 2 The capacity of a battery is higher when it is discharged slowly. For example, va riations are in the order of 10 % to 20  
% between a capacity measured over 5 hours and a capacity measured over 100 hours. 
 
3.13 short-circuit current 
maximum current given by a battery into a circuit of a very low resistance compared with that of the 
battery, under specified conditions 
 3.14 
charge rate 
electric current at which a seco ndary cell or battery is charged 
 
NOTE The charge rate is expressed as the reference current It = Cr/ n where Cr is the rated capacity declared by the 
manufacturer and n is the time base in hours for which the rated capacity is declared. 
[IEV 482-05-45] PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT, SEPTEMBER 2008CD/K/04-2:2003  
© EAC 2008 — All rights reserved  3  
3.15 
ambient temperature temperature of the medium in the immediate vicinity of a battery 
 3.16 gassing of a cell 
evolution of a gas resulting from electrolysis  of the water in the electrolyte of a cell 
[IEV 482-05-51] 
 
3.17 
constant current charge charge during which the electric current is maintained at a constant value regardless of the battery voltage or temperature 
[IEV 482-05-38]  3.18 initial charge 
commissioning charge given to a new battery to bring it to the fully charged state 
 
3.19 
cycling (of a cell or battery) 
set of operations that is carried out on a second ary cell or battery and is repeated regularly in 
the same sequence 
 
NOTE In a secondary battery these operat ions may consist of a sequence of a di scharge followed by a charge of a charge 
followed by a discharge under specified conditi ons. This sequence may include rest periods. 
[IEV 482-05-28] 
 
3.20 
commissioning 
final checking of installation and operation of a battery on site. 
 3.21 BMS 
battery management system (or battery charge/discharge controller) 
 
4 Batteries and battery management system selection 
 
4.1 Battery technical characteristics 
 
4.1.1 Battery cases  Battery cases shall be made of suitable materi als capable of withstanding impacts and shocks and 
resistant to acid. 
 4.1.2 Battery terminals and plates 
 
Terminals shall be protected against accidental short circuits. Positive and negative polarities shall be 
identified. Terminals shall be lug type.  The positive plates of the batteries shall be 2 mm thick minimum. 
 
4.1.3 Electrolyte 
 The electrolyte for lead acid batteries shall su lfuric acid complying with EAS 122 and shall have a 
density of 1.23 to 1.27. 
 
The electrolyte level checking interval varies depending on: 
 PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT, SEPTEMBER 2008CD/K/04-2:2003  
4 © EAC 2008 — All rights reserved ⎯ the type of battery, 
 
⎯ the temperature; 
 
⎯ the use; 
 
⎯ the regulation algorithms of the charge controller; 
 
⎯ the battery age; 
 
⎯ the quality of distilled water; 
 
⎯ the PV resource. 
 
The service interval would be determined by the above parameters and electrolyte reservoir size 
which is a specification of the sp ecific battery used. Care should be used to ensure that the service 
interval is within the capability of the maintenance organization.  
The batteries shall be designed in order to be able to check the electrolyte levels and to add distilled 
water.  
NOTE 1 Faradic water consumption for vented batteries: 
 
when a battery reaches its fully state of charge, water electrolysis occurs according to the Faraday's Law. 
 
Under standard conditions: 
 1 Ah decomposes H
2O into 0.42 dm3 H2 + 0.21 dm3 O2 
 
Decomposition of 1 cm3 (1 g) H 2O requires 3 Ah 
 An estimation of water consumpt ion of a battery is given by 
 
Battery H
2O (g) consumption = (X Ah charged - Y Ah disc harged) x number of cells in battery / 3. 
 
NOTE 2 The number of cells for a 12V lead acid battery is 6.  
 
4.2 Comparative tests 
 
The proposed comparative tests are designed to discriminate the most appropriate batteries taking in 
consideration the techno economic context of the project. 
 
These comparative tests include a sequence of  three tests as indicated in Table 1. 
 
IMPORTANT: All the batteries shall be tested simultaneou sly in order to ensure that they are tested in 
the same conditions (insulat ion, temperature, etc.). 
 
Table 1 — Testing procedure 
 
Test 1:  most durable batteries are first selected 
with a battery endurance test 
See 4.2.2  
  
 Test 2:  the couple battery-BMS  is selected 
with another endurance test  
See 4.2.3 
 
 
   Test 3:  in parallel to test 2, the selected 
batteries are subjected to a storability test
See 4.2.4  
 
The installation rules for batteries provided in Clause 6 are also applicable to test installations. 
 
4.2.1 Evaluation of the charge and discharge current for testing ( Itest) 
 
Automotive lead acid batteries are typically rated at C 20. PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT, SEPTEMBER 2008CD/K/04-2:2003  
© EAC 2008 — All rights reserved  5  
The proposed test uses a C10Itest. The C10 capacity of any battery may be obtained from its 
manufacturer. 
 
If not, Table 2 gives an assessment of the C 10Itest value for a 100 Ah C20 battery.  
 
Table 2 — Evaluation of charge and discharge current ( Itest) 
 
Nominal C 20 capacity 
(Ah) 
 Evaluation of C 10 capacity (Ah)
 Value of Itest (C10 × 0.1) (A) 
 
100 87 8.7 
 For another nominal capacity, I
test varies proportionally to the nominal capacity and is intended to be 
equivalent to a nominal C10 value. 
 
4.2.2 Test 1: Battery endurance test 
 
4.2.2.1 General 
 
This test aims to compare the ca pability of the batteries to mainta in their first observed capacity. 
 
NOTE This test is dedicated to batteries for PV systems. But a ba ttery that performs best in this test is likely to perform bes t 
in other applications (such as wind systems, pico hydro systems) when compared to other batteries of similar types. 
 
For each type of battery, the test is performed by subjecting 3 samples to a 2-phase procedure. The 
test is realized at ambient temperature. All the samples shall be tested simultaneously. 
 
The test is proposed for 12 V batteries. 
 For 24 V batteries, voltage thresholds shall be multiplied by 2. 
 
Charge voltage limitations are given for an ambien t temperature of 20 °C. The rule proposed to 
calculate the voltage limitation in accordance with the variation of the temperature is as follows: 
 For an ambient temperature different from 20 °C, voltage limitation shall be set according to:  -21 mV/°C for a 12V lead-acid bloc. Voltage limitation threshold is calculated according to the usual 
average value of the local ambient temperature of the season when the test is performed. 
 
Some examples of the application of this rule are given in Table 3. 
 
Table 3 — Voltage regulation variation with temperature (examples) 
 
Ambient temperature Voltage regulation vari ation/value at 20 °C Voltage regulation 
15 °C -0.021 V/°C x [15 °C - 20 °C] = +0.11 V 14.51 V 
20 °C  14.40V 
25 °C -0.021 V/°C x [25 °C - 20 °C] = - 0.105 V 14.30 V 
35 °C -0.021 V/°C x [35 °C - 20 °C] = -0.31 V 14.09V 
 
4.2.2.2 Test 1 procedure  
 
4.2.2.2.1 General 
 The endurance test simulates the use of a battery in a photovoltaic system. The charge and discharge 
are based on one cycle per day, i.e. 12 h charge and 12 h discharge. This kind of cycle is as close as 
possible to the field conditions. 
 
The test is performed as presented in Figure 1. 
 PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT, SEPTEMBER 2008CD/K/04-2:2003  
6 © EAC 2008 — All rights reserved 
 
 
Figure 1 — Test 1 phases 
 
Phase A is a discharge/charge cycle including an additional charge ensuring that the battery is on a 
high state of charge (see 4.2.2.2.2). 
 Phase B does not include this additional charge (see 4.2.2.2.3). 
 
The initial Phase A is performed to prepare the batte ries. This assesses the initial observed capacity 
of the batteries and ensures that the test is per formed with batteries on a high state of charge. 
 The sequence of Phase A and Phase B intends to reproduce the operating mode of the battery 
simulating a sequence of charges and disc harges with or without overcharge period. 
 After the preparation of the battery, a series of Ph ase B + Phase A is performed 9 times (as shown on 
Figure 1).  During each discharge, observed capacity is assess ed as explained in 4.2. 2.2.2.4. After each Phase 
A an average observed capacity is calculated.  When the complete test 1 process is achieved, 10 values of observed capacity are available. 
Interpretation of results is given in 4.2.2.4.  A curve showing the change in capacity during the complete testing period could be used to 
understand differences between different battery models and the variability of performance of 
batteries of the same model. 
 
After 90 cycles, this test will show the relative performance of the different batteries being considered. 
 
4.2.2.2.2    Phase A  
 
4.2.2.2.2.1 General 
 Phase A cycle is performed 5 times as presented in Figure 2. 
 4.2.2.2.2.2 Operating procedure 
 
⎯ Discharge the battery at I
test to 10.8 V (± 0.1 V). 
 
⎯ Wait until 12 h from the beginning of the discharge before starting the charge. 
 
⎯ Charge with an initial current equal to Itest during 10 h with a voltage limitation set at 14.1 
V(±0.1 V). 
 
⎯ Charge (additional charge), with no voltage limitation, during 2 h at Itest. 
 
⎯ Wait until 12 h from the beginning of t he charge before starti ng the next discharge. 
 PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT, SEPTEMBER 2008CD/K/04-2:2003  
© EAC 2008 — All rights reserved  7 
 
 
Figure 2 — Phase A battery endurance test 
 
4.2.2.2.2.3 Measurement of the Ah discharged 
 
For each discharge:  
⎯ Measure the duration of the discharge td (fro m the start of discharge until the stop of the 
discharge at the low voltage threshold). 
 
⎯ Calculate the Ah discharged: C = I
test (A) × td (h). 
 
4.2.2.2.2.4 Assessment of the observed capacity of each battery during Phases A 
 
⎯ Record the Ah discharged during each of the 5 cycles of a Phase A. 
 
⎯ Calculate the average value of the 5 records.  This average value is taken as the observed 
capacity of the battery. 
 
NOTE If one of the recorded value differs from the average value of more than 20 %, this value is excluded from the panel 
and the average is re-calculated on the remain ing values. It could occur, for example if  there is a shut off of the charging de vice 
or of the grid. 
 
4.2.2.2.2.5 Assessment of the initia l observed capacity of each battery 
 
For the assessment of the initial observed capacity of the battery, the average value is calculated only 
on the 4 last records each of which shall be not less than -20 % of the average value. 
 If one or more batteries is not able to provide 4 reco rds within the 20 % limit during the 5 first cycles, 
additional cycles shall be performed for all the sample s of all the models limited to a total of 10 cycles. 
 
At the end of the initial Phase A limited to a maximu m of 10 cycles, at least two samples of the same 
model shall allow the calculation of the initial obs erved capacity. If not, the model shall be rejected. 
 
4.2.2.2.3    Phase B  
 
4.2.2.2.3.1 General  
Phase B cycle is performed 5 times as presented in Figure 3. 
 PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT, SEPTEMBER 2008CD/K/04-2:2003  
8 © EAC 2008 — All rights reserved 
 
 
Figure 3 — Phase B battery endurance test 
 
4.2.2.2.3.2 Operating procedure 
 
Discharge the battery at Itest to 10.8 V (± 0.1 V). 
 
Wait until 12 h from the beginning of t he discharge before starting the charge. 
 
Charge the battery at Itest to a voltage threshold of 14.1 V (± 0.1 V). 
 
Wait until 12 h from the beginning of t he charge before starting the discharge. 
 
4.2.2.3 Test 1 equipment 
 To perform the test 1 the equipment needed is: 
 
⎯ A time measurement device (clock / watch) providing an alarm every 12 h. 
 
⎯ A current generating device able to provide a stable I
test current (± 0.05 A) including an 
automatic switch off at predetermined volt age thresholds and complying with the IEC 
requirements concerning the ripple current rate. 
 
⎯ A resistive load allowing the discharge of t he batteries; determine the required resistance 
based on 12 V and the Itest current (± 0.05 A). 
 
⎯ An ammeter and a voltmeter.  
 
All the batteries shall be tested with t he same equipment of the same class. 
 
4.2.2.4 Interpreting the results of Test 1: battery selection 
 
3 criteria shall be used:  
⎯ remaining average observed capacity at the end of the test; 
 
⎯ capacity variation within the same model samples; 
 
⎯ capacity variation with different models. PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT, SEPTEMBER 2008CD/K/04-2:2003  
© EAC 2008 — All rights reserved  9  
Models of batteries not having at least two sample s having a remaining observed capacity of 70 % or 
more of the initial observed capacity should be avoided.  Models of batteries with large variations (more than 20 %) in observed capacity within the samples 
should be avoided. 
 The battery model with the smallest change in observed capacity over the test period is likely to be 
more durable. 
 The previous 3 criteria are technical criteria and ha ve to be considered with economic criteria to 
complete the choice of the battery model.  4.2.2.5 Assumption of the water consumption 
 
The weight of each battery is measured at the beginning and after 30, 60 and 90 cycles in order to 
assess the water consumption. The water is added after the weight measurement. 
 Another way is to check the level of the electr olyte: the level can be assessed by using a small 
floating device equipped with a graduated gauge. The initial level is recorded and for each top up of the battery. The quantity of distilled water needed to retrieve the initial level is measured. 
 
NOTE When not used, floating dev ices should be stored in an elec trolyte-resistant container. 
 
4.2.3 Test 2: Endurance test for battery + BMS  
4.2.3.1 General 
 
This test 2 simulates the use of the whole battery and BMS combination in a photovoltaic system and 
determines the compatibility between battery and battery management system (BMS) which is a 
critical point to extend battery lifetime. The ma in requirements for battery management systems are 
appropriate battery protection and suffici ent energy delivery to the users. 
 
The recommendations for a good battery management system are:  
⎯ adequately sized to withstand high currents provided by PV array; 
 
⎯ easy to use (installation, information for the user); 
 
⎯ having a low self-consumption (< 15 mA under 12 V). 
 For each type of BMS, the test is performed by subjecting two batteries and BMS combinations to a 3 
phase procedure. 
 
Test 2 is performed with new samples of models of  batteries which have succ essfully passed Test 1. 
 
Test 2 is performed by subjecting two samples of  each combination of model of BMS + model of 
battery. The number of combinations to be tested is determined by the Project Developer / 
implementer, according to the size of the project and the cost of the testing. 
 Test 2 shall be performed according to the formula: 
 
(Nb of models of BMS × Nb of models of selected batteries) × 2 
 For example if 2 models of batteries were sele cted after Test 1, and 2 models of BMS are pre-
selected, 8 Test 2's shall be performed. 
 
For economic reasons it is sensible neither to sele ct more than two models of batteries after test 1 nor 
to test them in test 2 with more than two models of BMS. 
 PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT, SEPTEMBER 2008CD/K/04-2:2003  
10 © EAC 2008 — All rights reserved 4.2.3.2 Test 2 procedure  
 
4.2.3.2.1 General  
The test is conducted at ambient temperat ure and performed as shown on Figure 4. 
 
 
 
Figure 4 — Test 2 phases 
 
For Phase A, see 4.2.2.2.2.  
 For Phase C, see 4.2.3.2.2. 
 
The complete test 2 shown in Figure 4 corresponds  to 90 discharge/charge cycles for the battery. 
The water consumption is assessed according to 4.2.2.5. 
 
4.2.3.2.2    Phase C  
 
4.2.3.2.2.1 General 
 Phase C cycle is performed 80 ti mes as presented in Figure 5. 
 
 
 
Figure 5 — Phase C battery-BMS endurance test 
 
4.2.3.2.2.2 Operating procedure 
 
⎯ Discharge the battery at Itest up to the load disconnection managed by BMS. 
 
⎯ Wait until 12 h from the beginning of t he discharge before starting the next charge. 
 PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT, SEPTEMBER 2008CD/K/04-2:2003  
© EAC 2008 — All rights reserved  11 ⎯ Charge the battery at Itest to the end of charge managed by BMS. 
 
⎯ Wait until 12 h from the beginning of t he charge before starti ng the next discharge. 
 
The duration of charge and discharge shall be recorded. 
 
4.2.3.3 Interpreting the results of test 2 
 
The observed capacity of the batteries is asse ssed as the average value of the five discharged 
capacities measured in each Phase A. Then these two values are compared to assess the loss of 
capacity of the battery over the test period. 
 
The BMS selection is based first on the performance of battery after 90 cycles: the battery shall not 
have a capacity under 70 % of the initial observed capacity.  Then the purchaser could select the association (battery+ BMS) regarding energy delivered by the 
system to the user, water consumption, and cost.  4.2.4 Test 3: Battery storability test  4.2.4.1 General 
 
A fully charged battery in storage, even with no connected load circuit, discharges spontaneously. 
This slow discharge is called self-discharge. It s hould be as low as possible. When the batteries are 
stored full of electrolyte, it is  best that their charge state rema ins close to the charged state. 
 This test is dedicated to assess the capability of ba tteries to recover their initial capacity after a 
storage period without any charge or discharge. The aim is not to measure a loss of capacity during 
the storage period, but the ability of the battery to recover the initial performances. In the field, 
batteries are never fully char ged before the storage period. 
 
NOTE 1 This test is not relevant for dry charged batteries. 
 
NOTE 2 For temperature having a high impact on the performances of the batteries it is all the more important for this 
particular test that all the samples be tested si multaneously, in the same temperature conditions. 
 
4.2.4.2    Test 3 procedure  
 
4.2.4.2.1  General  This test could be performed simultane ously with test 2 described above. 
 
For example the current sources could be used to perform the initial Phase D on batteries subjected 
to test 3 and then be used on the batteries subjected to  test 2 as the batteries subjected to test 3 have 
to rest for 3 months (no current source needed). 
 
The test 3 is performed according to Figure 6. 
 
 
 
Figure 6 — Test 3 phases 
 
4.2.4.2.2        Phase  
 
D 4.2.4.2.2.1 General  
Phase D cycle is performed as presented in Figure 7. PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT, SEPTEMBER 2008CD/K/04-2:2003  
12 © EAC 2008 — All rights reserved  
 
 
Figure 7 — Phase D storability test 
 
4.2.4.2.2.2 Operating procedure 
 
⎯ Discharge the battery at Itest to 10.8 V (± 0.1 V). 
 
⎯ Charge the battery at Itest with 14.1 V (± 0.1 V) voltage limitation during the first 32 h. 
 
⎯ Charge 3 h at Itest with no voltage limitation. 
 
4.2.4.2.3 Storage period 
 
The storage period is 3 months.  
The storage period condit ions shall be as close as possible as they will be in  the field conditions of the 
project. 
 4.2.4.3 Interpreting the results of test 3 
 
The observed capacity is measured for Phases D as explained for Phases A in clause 4.2.2.2.2.4. 
 The capacity loss is assessed by comparison betw een the capacity measured at the end of the first 
Phase D and the capacity measured at  the end of the second Phase D. 
 The storage battery shall be able to withstand storage for 3 months with no irreversible alteration to 
the initial characteristics (voltage, ca pacity) after completion of test 3. 
 The selected batteries after the test are those which have the best ability to recover their initial 
performances.  
5 Documentation 
 
The battery documentation shall include the following information: 
 
⎯ rated capacity of the ba ttery and rated capacity at C10 (if available); 
 
⎯ nominal battery voltage; 
 PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT, SEPTEMBER 2008CD/K/04-2:2003  
© EAC 2008 — All rights reserved  13 ⎯ electrolyte density required for filling; 
 
⎯ maximum storage duration; from manufacturing date; 
 
⎯ manufacturing date; 
 
⎯ return address of spent batteries; 
 
⎯ procedures for installation, initial charge and maintenance; 
 
⎯ recommended charging strategies (values of e nd of charge / discharge voltage, overcharge 
voltage). 
 
6 Installation rules 
 
All batteries shall be prepared and installed in accordance with  the provisions of EAS 363-2. 
 
6.1 Packing and shipping 
 The batteries shall be supplied charged or dry char ged with the appropriate container of electrolyte. 
 
All measures shall be taken by the supplier for the batteries to reach their destination in perfect 
condition.  
Batteries for stand alone electrification system s will possibly experience abusive conditions of 
transport and storage. This shall be recognized and appropriate measures to minimize damages shall 
be implemented. 
 
Battery electrolyte is harmful. Electrolyte spill age shall be prevented by marking on the shipping 
container as illustrated by the follo wing Figure 8 and by appropriate packing. 
 
 
 
Figure 8 — Marking for spillage prevention 
 
 
Apart from the recipient's address and the usua l markings for fragile and dangerous equipment, each 
packing shall bear the following markings in indelible letters: 
 
⎯ supplier's name; 
 
⎯ product reference; 
 
⎯ label to indicate chemical hazards National or international dangerous labeling code; 
 
⎯ handling/storage instructions. PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT, SEPTEMBER 2008CD/K/04-2:2003  
14 © EAC 2008 — All rights reserved  
6.2 Environment 
 
Temperature has a high impact on the batteries performances.  
Appropriate measures shall be impl emented to operate batteries at their optimum appropriate range: 
+5 °C, +35 °C: 
 
⎯ high temperature accelerates ageing so it is recommended to implement technical means 
able to protect batteries from direct irradiance and heating; 
 
⎯ low temperature may induce a lower observed capacity.  
 
6.3 Battery accommodation, housing 
 Batteries shall be housed in protected accommodat ion. If required, electrical accommodation or 
locked electrical accommodation shall be provided. 
 
The following factors shall be taken into co nsideration when selecting the accommodation: 
 
⎯ protection from external hazard: fire, water, shock, vibration, vermin; 
 
⎯ protection from hazards generated by battery: high voltage, explosion hazard; electrolyte 
hazard, corrosion; 
 
⎯ protection from access of unauthorized personnel; 
 
⎯ adequate natural ventilation. 
 
6.3.1 Provision against electrolyte hazard 
 
6.3.1.1 Electrolyte and water  
Electrolyte used is an aqueous solution of sulfuric acid. Only distilled or demineralised water is used 
for topping up the cells. 
  6.3.1.2 Protective clothing 
 
In order to avoid personal injury from electrol yte splashes when handling electrolyte and/or vented 
cells or batteries, protective clothing shall be worn, such as 
 
⎯ protective glasses or masks for eyes or face, 
 
⎯ protective gloves and aprons for skin protection. 
 6.3.1.3 Accidental contact, first aid 
 
Electrolyte creates burns on eyes an d skin. A source of water (tap or reservoir) shall be provided in 
the vicinity of the battery for cl eaning away splashed electrolyte. 
 
6.3.1.3.1 Eye contact 
 
In the event of accidental contact with electrolyt e, immediately flood the yes with large quantities of 
water for an extended period of time of at least 15  minutes. In all cases, obtain immediate medical 
attention! 
 
6.3.1.3.2 Skin contact 
 
In the event of accidental contact with electrolyt e, wash the affected parts with large quantities of 
water. If irritation of the skin per sists obtain medical attention. 
 PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT, SEPTEMBER 2008CD/K/04-2:2003  
© EAC 2008 — All rights reserved  15 6.3.1.4 Battery accessories and maintenance tools 
 Materials used for battery accessories, battery st ands or enclosures, and components inside battery 
rooms shall be resistant to or protected from  the chemical effects of the electrolyte. 
 In the event of electrolyte spillage remove the liquids  with absorbing material; neutralizing material is 
preferred. 
 
Maintenance tools, like funnels, hy drometers, thermometers, which ar e in contact with electrolyte 
shall be separately dedicated to the batteries and shall not be used for any other purpose. 
 6.3.2 Prevention of short circuits and protec tion from other effects of electric current 
 
6.3.2.1 General  
In addition to the hazard of electric shock, the current flow in battery systems can cause other 
hazards. This is because very high currents may fl ow under fault conditions, and the voltage at the 
battery terminals cann ot be switched off. 
 6.3.2.2 Short circuits 
 
The electric energy stored in cells or batteries may be released in an inadvertent and uncontrolled 
manner due to short-circuiting of the terminals.  Because of the considerable energy, the heat 
generated by the high current can produce molten  metal, sparks, explosion and vaporization of 
electrolyte. 
 
The main connections from the battery terminals shall be designed to withstand the electromagnetic 
forces experienced during a short circuit. 
 
All battery connections up to the battery fuse shall be installed so that a short circuit shall not occur 
under all feasible conditions. 
 
NOTE The insulation should be resistant against the effects of ambient influences like temperature, dampness, dust, 
gasses, steam, and mechanical stress. Where terminals and conduc tors are not insulated, by design or for maintenance 
purposes, only insulated tools are used in that area. 
 
When working on live equipment, the use of appropriate working proced ures will reduce the risk of 
injury. Only insulated tools shall be used. 
 6.3.2.3 Protective measures during maintenance 
 
During maintenance operation people may work close to the battery system. Personnel involved in 
work on or close to a battery shall be competent to carry out such work, and shall be trained in any 
special procedures necessary. 
 
To minimize the risk of injury, the battery system shall be designed with 
 
⎯ battery terminal covers which allow routine ma intenance whilst minimizing exposure of live parts; 
 
⎯ fuse carriers which prev ent contact with live parts. 
 
All metallic personal objects shall be removed from  the hands, wrists and neck before starting work. 
 Batteries shall be neither connected nor disconnect ed when current is flowing. Isolate the circuit 
elsewhere first. 
 
6.3.2.4 Leakage currents 
 To avoid the risk of fire or corrosion, keep batteries  clean and dry. To be resistant against effects of 
ambient influences like temperature, dampness , dust, gasses, steam, and mechanical stress the PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT, SEPTEMBER 2008CD/K/04-2:2003  
16 © EAC 2008 — All rights reserved minimum insulation resistance between the battery circ uit and other local conductive parts should be 
greater than 100 Ω per volt (of battery nominal voltage) corresponding to a leakage current <10 mA. 
 
6.3.3 Battery enclosures 
 
A battery enclosure may be selected for the following reasons: 
 
⎯ to provide a functionally complete item of equipment in one enclosure; 
 
⎯ for protection against external hazards; 
 
⎯ for protection from hazards generated by the battery; 
 
⎯ for protection from acce ss of unauthorized personnel; 
 
⎯ for protection from external environmental influences. 
 
The following requirements shall apply when housing batteries in an enclosure: 
 
⎯ sufficient ventilation shall be provided to prev ent the formation of an explosive hydrogen 
concentration; 
 
⎯ the floor (or shelf if fitted) shall be designed to take the load of the batteries; 
 
⎯ partitions within the enclosure will reduce the effective ventilation, and may increase the 
temperature of the battery. This should be assessed during the design; 
 
⎯ the  interior of the enclosure shall be chemica lly resistant to the electrolyte (including shelves 
if any); 
 
⎯ the enclosure shall prevent access to ha zardous parts by anyone other than authorized 
people; 
 
⎯ the enclosure shall be designed to allow a dequate access for maintenance using normal 
tools. 
 
6.4 Final inspection 
 
A final inspection shall be done, including as a minimum the following items:  
⎯ visual inspection of the cells; 
 
⎯ verification of tightness of connections; 
 
⎯ inspection of the electrolyte levels; 
 
⎯ measurement of the electrolyte densities; 
 
⎯ verification of the ventilation of the housing. 
 
6.5 Safety 
 
6.5.1 Safety provisions  
During the installation, provisions shall be made to  prevent any injury due to the weight of the 
batteries (handling equipment, safety shoes, etc.).  For batteries installed in a locker, devices shall be implemented to keep non-authorized people from 
accessing the batteries. The locker shall be free of  anything preventing the access when necessary. PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT, SEPTEMBER 2008CD/K/04-2:2003  
© EAC 2008 — All rights reserved  17  
6.5.2 Safety information 
 
Information shall be given in  accordance with Annex A and that detailed in EAS 363-2. 
 
Battery accessibility is defined by the operator. 
 The project implementer shall ensure that the necessary actions are taken to warn users and 
operators of the risks related to battery use: corr osion, explosion and short-circuit. The following 
notices shall be posted visibly outside the room or locker. 
 
"Access forbidden to all non-authorized persons" 
 
and after opening: 
 
⎯ no smoking, 
 
⎯ no live flames, 
 
⎯ first aid for electric shock, burn, acid splashes. 
 
A suitably located warning notice in local language and pictorial shall focus on the safety provisions. 
As a minimum, a symbol and oral training shall be provided.  
6.6 Administrative formalities 
 
As batteries contain potentially polluting materials such as lead, electrolyt e, etc. the legal or 
environmental regulations for each country shall be complied with. An inventory of installations 
equipped with batteries shall be kept in order to avoid spreading of lead, electrolyte into the 
environment after their useful life. 
 
6.7 Recycling 
 Disposal of dead batteries shall be included in the general specification of any project. 
 
At the end of their useful life, the batteries shall be  recycled by the operator under the responsibility of 
the owner. A designated person shall be able to stor e the dead batteries and then submit them for 
recycling.  
Batteries shall be recycled in an env ironmentally responsible and physically safe fashion referred to in 
IEC 62257-6. 
 
If no local recycling system is locally managed, the mi nimum requirement is to store the acid of used 
batteries in a closed container and cases with lead plates in a dedicated storage area. PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT, SEPTEMBER 2008CD/K/04-2:2003  
18 © EAC 2008 — All rights reserved  
Annex B 
(normative) 
 
Safety labelling 
 
B.1 Symbols  
The symbols shall have common dimensions as shown in Figure B.1 with a minimum of 10 mm.  
 
 
Figure B.1 —  Dimensions for symbols in safety labelling 
 
The symbols shall be located in a group on the top of the battery as shown in Figure B.2. 
 
B.2 Safety labelling — Typical example of label for East Africa 
 
 
 
No smoking, no naked flames, no sparks 
 
Shield eyes 
 
Battery acid, corrosive 
 
Note operating Instructions 
 Explosive gas, do not short-circuit. 
 
Recyclable 
 
 
PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT, SEPTEMBER 2008CD/K/04-2:2003  
© EAC 2008 — All rights reserved