A constant-current discharge test with a DC load bank is the direct way to confirm that a stationary battery will deliver its rated capacity. Per IEEE recommended practice, the interval is 5 years for vented Ni-Cd (IEEE 1106), no more than 25% of the expected service life for vented lead-acid (IEEE 450), and no more than 25% of the service life or 2 years, whichever is less, for VRLA (IEEE 1188) — moving to annual tests once a battery shows capacity loss.
EDPN constant-current DC load banks are built for IEEE 450, IEEE 1106 and IEEE 1188 capacity tests. Set-up is simple, and the display shows voltage, current and ampere-hours (Ah) discharged throughout the test.
The current is held constant automatically, so no manual adjustment is needed during the test. Configurable auto-stop settings and built-in protection end the test before the battery is over-discharged.