5. How are chargers monitored in case of failure?
A variety of electronic monitors are fitted to some charging systems in order to make sure that the whole system is operating correctly and to provide some form of warning in the event of a failure. The following conditions can be monitored: -
High DC Volts (Overcharging),
Low DC Volts (undercharging), Charge Failure (no charging current
flowing), Mains Failure (Failure of incoming mains supply), Earth Leakage (Either DC pole to earth),
Low Volts Load Disconnect, High Impedance Monitor (failed cells
or interconnection weakness), Battery Imbalance and Low
Electrolyte Level.
Don't be fooled by manufacturers that claim their battery chargers cannot damage a battery. Every electronic component
can and will fail under certain circumstances, afterall, nothing is 100% reliable. Even equipment manufactured under
the most stringent quality control procedures sometimes fail, with life threatening consequences. Look at the recent shuttle disaster!
A high voltage cut-off is available to protect the batteries from over-charge in the event of a component failure. The unit automatically
disconnects the mains supply and can provide a remote warning signal for instant fault indication.