Rotronics puts batteries under the microscope
Battery management specialist Rotronics, which distributes Ctek and Midtronics technology, has issued advice for workshops on some of the battery-related implications of the Covid pandemic.
Batteries have come under increased scrutiny in recent times, the firm says, either because vehicles have been parked up for periods of time or because breakdowns are not an option.
“The problems experienced by transport workshops in the last few months have condensed and highlighted issues that have been going on for some time,” said Ken Clark, managing director at Rotronics.
“Many workshops of major transport companies have been trying to think their way out of growing battery challenges – and bills – that have appeared. We have been approached for advice about looking at different battery technologies and specifications, with the feeling that they will get more out of a battery if they go for a higher spec.
“Unfortunately, it does not matter how high or low the spec is, if you don’t look after your batteries by testing and charging them. It will ultimately make little change or improvement to fleet reliability, or reducing operating costs, unless we also ensure that the batteries are cared for. Constant maintenance is the key to that required reliability.”
Rotronics says it has discovered that many companies fall foul of investing considerable sums in battery technology, and then not looking after it by not running testing and charging programmes.
Introducing a proactive battery maintenance programme, and higher specification batteries into a fleet, can make a positive impact in vehicle reliability, the firm contends.
“Just changing the battery product, with no maintenance programme, will not alter your fleet reliability,” continued Ken Clark.
“You need to look at this as a complete picture – choosing the correct battery spec and then employing a suitable battery management programme.
“Throughout the Covid pandemic, we all know someone who has had flat batteries, and this is the time to look at ourselves and stop trying to plug the leaky bucket with a plaster. It’s important to invest in your workshop’s arsenal of equipment.”
Rotronics has issued the following guidance for workshops regarding battery maintenance during the pandemic.
To keep batteries in an optimal state of charge, the firm says, workshops should test and charge every vehicle that enters, make sure that the batteries are balanced, and identify parasitic drains and keep them to a minimum: this can be automated with the EXP1000 FHD.
“Drains will include master switches, internal lights, security cameras, ticket machines, all lighting etc,” said Rotronics.
“Switch off all loads at the end of the vehicle clean
“If a battery has been tested and it needs charging, charge it as required.
“Parked up vehicles should be tested frequently – at least once a month
“Look after all the batteries in store/stock. Keep them at a minimum of 12.5V, ideally above this. Test these batteries monthly and charge where necessary. The same rules apply to AGM or EFB batteries.
“You will need the EXP platform to measure the individual performance and balanced state of batteries. Connecting this to the integrated amp clamp, you can measure the parasitic drains that are present.
“With hybrid vehicles, jump starting can cause damage to the high voltage battery pack, so keep these vehicles in a solid state of charge.
“Keep all power packs on charge continually, to ensure that they are effective when required in any emergency.”
To prepare the workshop for when the pandemic is over, Rotronics advises that technicians should keep all testing and charging equipment in excellent condition, make sure that the terminals are kept clear from grease and grime, and service and repair any equipment that has become faulty or showing signs of wear and tear.
