Considerations in preparing a specification for stationary valve regulated lead-acid batteries

International standards as well as draft international standards (IEC and CENELEC) and guidelines (i.e. EUROBAT) for the understanding and use of valve regulated lead-acid batteries have now been issued. Purchase of valve regulated batteries must be accompanied by a "purchasing specification". The work of preparing a specification for these batteries was undertaken on a joint basis in the Nordic countries (Scandinavia and Finland). Among the issues addressed in connection with this project were requirements relating to quality, performance, operation and the environment. A purchasing specification based on numerous reference documents, international standards and guidelines and battery manufacturers' product information has been drawn up. The paper presents some of the above-mentioned issues and aspects which have been discussed during the work of preparing the specification. >