ABSTRACT:
This Generic Requirements document (GR) covers requirements for various types of vented lead-sulfuric acid enclosed-jar type storage cells (pure lead and lead alloy) of 100 ampere-hours capacity and larger or for high-rate vented cells rated 400 watts/cell or more. At the discretion of the user, the requirements can be applied to vented lead-acid engine start batteries with capacities as low as 25 ampere-hours. It does not cover the manufacture of the product, but is intended to define the characteristics of the end product. In all respects where specifics are not covered in this document, the product shall be in accordance with the standard practice of the supplier.

Vented Lead-Acid (VLA) batteries have for many decades been the most widely deployed type of batteries in telecommunications central offices. Recently, competing technologies have been commercially launched and many hold great promise. When compared to VLA, these competing technologies offer advantages in some areas and disadvantages in others. As all energy storage applications rapidly expand to complement solar and wind generation, building and fire codes have been revised to address increased fire and safety concerns. This code-driven focus on battery safety underscores the need to maintain well-designed, safely installed and properly operated telecommunications battery plants. For the near future, despite competing technologies in the marketplace and on the horizon, VLA batteries will continue to be the cornerstone of energy storage in telecommunications central offices as well as many data centers.

This GR document does not address the requirements of Valve-Regulated Lead-Acid (VRLA) type batteries. Requirements for VRLA batteries can be found in GR-4228-CORE, Valve-Regulated Lead-Acid (VRLA) Battery String Certification Levels Based on Requirements for Safety and Performance.

GR-232-CORE Issue 03 includes:

• Updated fire resistance and safety information based on the most current fire codes and GR documents
• Revised design and test requirements based on feedback from carriers and manufacturers