What Causes UPS Batteries to Swell?

Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) batteries are essential for ensuring continuous power during outages, protecting valuable equipment and data. However, a common issue that can compromise their functionality is battery swelling. Understanding the causes of a swollen UPS battery is crucial for maintaining its efficiency and longevity.

Main Causes of UPS Battery Swelling

1.   Chemical Reactions and Aging

UPS batteries operate through chemical reactions that store and release energy. Over time, these reactions can cause the formation of gas within the battery cells. If the gas cannot escape, it leads to swelling. Aging is a major contributor to this problem. All batteries have a finite lifespan. As UPS batteries age, their internal components deteriorate. This natural wear and tear impairs the battery's ability to manage internal pressure, resulting in gases caused by chemical reactions occurring inside the battery that can't be expelled.

2.   Shorting and Overcharging

Short-circuiting of the battery terminals and overcharging generate heat that heats up the plates inside the battery. When heated, the lead material of the plates has a high expansion rate, and the extreme pressure can cause the battery to swell.

3.   Environmental Factors

High temperatures and humidity levels accelerate the degradation of battery components, increasing the likelihood of swelling. UPS batteries should be kept in a controlled environment to avoid these detrimental effects.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Battery Swelling

1.   Optimal Environmental Conditions

Maintaining the right environmental conditions is crucial for the longevity of UPS batteries. Ideally, they should be stored in a cool, dry place. Extreme temperatures, both high and low, can damage battery components. High humidity can lead to corrosion and other issues. Using the monitoring sensor in the storage area can help maintain the optimal temperature and humidity levels, thereby reducing the risk of battery swelling.

2.   Regular Maintenance and Monitoring

Routine maintenance is necessary to prevent UPS batteries from swelling. This includes preventing overcharging and ensuring that the battery operates within the recommended parameters. This process can be greatly enhanced by utilizing advanced battery monitoring systems such as the DFUN BMS. By monitoring the charging and discharging process of the battery, as well as the ambient temperature and humidity, and providing real-time data and alerts, the DFUN BMS solution helps prevent conditions that could lead to ups battery swelling.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while a swollen UPS battery can pose significant challenges, understanding the underlying causes and implementing preventive measures can greatly reduce the risk. By taking the steps above, you can ensure that your UPS batteries remain in good condition, providing reliable power when you need it most.