Charge regime for generator

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stephendv
stephendv Solar Expert Posts: 1,571 ✭✭
in Off Grid Solar & Battery Systems #1
Hi all,

I currently have a 48v 800Ah C20 forklift battery bank and my only charge source is a 5kW diesel gen. What's more is that since my cabin is still being built I only have minimal consumption, probably draw about 40Ah over the weekend, and then the bats sit unused for the rest of the week.
I recharge them every sunday with a 3h hour absorb phase. I was wondering whether it would be better to use a slightly higher absorb voltage, say 2.45V in order to charge quicker and to cause a little more mixing of the electrolyte given that the bats sit unused for a week between charges.

Thoughts?
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  • techntrek
    techntrek Solar Expert Posts: 1,372 ✭✭✭
    #2
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    Re: Charge regime for generator

    Any chance you can install a small PV system in the near future, to take care of the float stage after you've gone home? As for the bulk charge on your genset, you can go as high as 2.45 volts per cell, but be sure to check the electrolyte more often.
    4.5 kw APC UPS powered by a Prius, 12 kw Generac, Honda EU3000is
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  • stephendv
    stephendv Solar Expert Posts: 1,571 ✭✭
    #3
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    Re: Charge regime for generator

    Oh yes, the PV is planned for May/June this year - but I don't want to ruin my batteries in the meantime.
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