Float Charging Current Probe (FCCP)
Reduce risks and help with compliance issues by monitoring battery float current
Patented measurement technology
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Multitel’s innovative measuring and digital filtering techniques eliminate AC ripples to provide a pure DC component between 0 to 5 Amp with a resolution down to 1mA.
Smart alarms and trending
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The FCCP is able to detect the battery operating mode, recharge, discharge or floating and therefore prevents the sending of false alarms in recharge and discharge modes. An analog output signal is available in popular 0-50mV or 4-20mA signals.
Quick and safe installations
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The split-core transducer enables easy installation without opening the battery circuit. The unit is powered from 18 to 60VDC or 120VAC power adapter. The integrated zero offset calibration process eliminates the guesswork.
Thermal Runaway Prevention
Prevention is key to avoid a catastrophic event
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Float charging current and ambient temperature are two critical contributors at the origin of a thermal runaway events.
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Float charging current measurements will provide the earliest, most holistic and precise detection of thermal runaway.
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Using an FCCP can help with compliancy to IFC section 608 and NFPA 1. Article 52 fire codes.
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The FCCP analog and digital output signals integrates easily with DC system controllers, battery monitors, SCADA or RTUs;
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The FCCP is ideally suited for small to large VRLA, VLA and NiCad battery systems.
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Installs easily in small telecom outside plant cabinets up to large data center UPS battery systems.
FAQ
Thermal Runaway Prevention
1
Q. Is it possible to trend float current activity over time?
A. Yes. The FCCP provides a 0-50mV analog output signal directly proportional to the 0 to 5A input range. Therefore, using the Multitel FUSION RMU or the analog signal, you can precisely monitor and trend float current over time.
2
Q. How do you determine the normal float charging current value in regards to battery age, capacity, operating temperature and voltage?
A. The float charging current needs to be determined before installing the FCCP. The battery manufacturer can supply this information.
3
Q. How do you determine where to set the alarm threshold?
A. This is a critical question. For thermal runaway prevention, you want the high current threshold to be set high enough to proactively catch the catastrophic event and not too low to provide negative or false alarms. Threshold recommendations are provided in the FCCP user manual.
4
Q. Can the FCCP operate with chargers or rectifiers without temperature compensation enabled?
A. Yes, the FCCP measures ambient temperature and can compensate high current alarm thresholds if the temperature compensation feature is not enabled to eliminate negative or false alarms.
5
Q. Can the FCCP helps comply with the International Fire Code (IFC 608.3) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA 1. Article 52.)?
A. Yes. The FCCP will help you comply with IFC 608.3 and NFPA 1. Article 52. as a device to preclude, detect and control thermal runaway.