Diesel generator set starting batteries must be replaced periodicallyDiesel generator set starting batteries must be replaced periodically

Starting battery is an important component of starting system for diesel generator set. The lead‑acid batteries commonly used in diesel generator sets are mainly divided into two categories: dry‑charged batteries and maintenance‑free batteries. Like other equipment, storage batteries also have a certain service life. They must be replaced when they reach the end of their life to ensure normal and reliable starting of the generator set.

Generally speaking, the batteries of diesel generator sets can only undergo a limited number of cycles before failure. A damaged battery loses its ability to store electrical energy. Under normal operating conditions, the service life of most batteries is 3 to 7 years. Surely, the service life depends on the number of charge-discharge cycles and the degree of cyclic usage, and the daily maintenance is also crucially important so as to extend the service life under the limited possibility.

Attention should be pay to the following usage and maintenance notes:

1. During use, the battery relies on the charging generator installed on the diesel generator to charge it regularly, the charging current is automatically regulated by the generator regulator.

2. After discharging, the battery should be recharged promptly to avoid plate sulfation.

3. The vents of the battery filler caps shall be kept clear and unobstructed. They should be opened during charging and closed after discharging.

4. Attention should be pay to the level of battery electrolyte inspection. It should generally be 10-15 mm above the top of the plates. In case of abnormality, add distilled water for adjustment. The river water, well water, and concentrated sulfuric acid must not be added. 

5. If fully charged but not used for a long time, it should be recharged once a month.

6. The battery shall be kept clean at all times and its exposed surfaces cleaned regularly. When cleaning the vent holes on the vent caps and wire terminals, ensure no cleaning fluid enters the battery and prevent foreign matter from getting into the electrolyte.

7. Insufficient regular charging, prolonged low-current discharge, over-discharging, or failure to recharge promptly after discharge will all accelerate plate sulfation of the battery. Characterized by a large amount of white lead sulfate forming on the plate tops, this impairs the battery's normal charge and discharge performance.

8. Through the specific gravity of electrolyte or measure the terminal voltage with a discharge meter to ensure the extent of charge and discharge.

9. When using the battery in cold conditions, keep it warm. The electrolyte specific gravity should be increased appropriately to prevent freezing caused by a drop in its specific gravity.

10. If the battery separator is damaged, conductive metal falls into the battery, or excessive sediment accumulates at the bottom of the battery, a short circuit may occur. This will result in little change in electrolyte specific gravity, high temperature, low charging voltage and even lower discharging voltage during charging.

11. If damage is found to the battery separator, battery case, cover or other components, the battery shall be sent to a professional service center for repair or replacement.

12. When using the battery in low-temperature condition, parallel connection to the battery can be adopted. Maintain a constant 24V voltage to increase the current capacity.

To facilitate convenient operation and reduce complicated procedures, Dingbo Power is now equipped with maintenance-free batteries from well-known brands. The three‑point connection system and high‑performance PE separator endow the battery with ultra‑low internal resistance and excellent high‑rate discharge performance. Meanwhile, it features low self‑discharge, long storage life, longer cycle life, and outstanding cost‑effectiveness.

If you are interested in our diesel generator sets, feel free to contact us, we offer high-quality products and good after-sales service.