Specifications

MARATHONNORCO AEROSPACE, INC.
NICKEL-CADMIUM AIRCRAFT BATTERIES
24-34-00
Page 901
APR 15/06
9.0 CLEANING
CAUTION: Exercise extreme care when working around the battery. Do not use metal
brushes or metal brush supports. Remove rings and other metal jewelry from the
hands. Any of these may cause an electrical short which may result in skin burns
and damage to the battery.
The battery should be kept in a clean, dry state for optimum performance. The extent of the cleaning
process depends upon the condition of the battery. Several procedures are described in the following
paragraphs.
If heavy overcharging has occurred, gassing and spewing of electrolyte may cause a white powdery
substance, potassium carbonate, to form on top of the cells. This may be removed by brushing the cells
with a non-conductive stiff bristle brush or a clean cloth.
If necessary, the tops of the cells may be flushed with ordinary tap water (of low mineral content). Make
certain that all of the cell vent plugs are properly seated. Tip the battery at about a 45° angle with its
receptacle (or power connector) facing upward. Flush with water from the top of the battery in a
downward direction so as to prevent, as much as possible, any water from entering the battery can. It is
permissible to use a non-conductive bristle brush to clean away stubborn dirt particles. Any excess liquid
should be drained off and the battery permitted to dry. Drying may be accelerated by the use of oil-free
compressed air.
WARNING: USE OF COMPRESSED AIR FOR CLEANING CAN CREATE AN ENVIRONMENT OF
PROPELLED FOREIGN PARTICLES WHICH MAY ENTER THE EYES AND CAUSE SERIOUS
INJURY. AIR PRESSURE FOR CLEANING SHALL NOT EXCEED 30 PSI. EFFECTIVE CHIP
GUARDING INCLUDING EYE PROTECTION IS REQUIRED.
CAUTION: THE WATER USED TO WASH THE CELLS OR BATTERY WILL BECOME CAUSTIC; AVOID
CONTACT WITH IT. DO NOT CLEAN WITH SOLVENTS, ACIDS OR ANY CHEMICAL
SOLUTION. THESE MAY DAMAGE THE CELL CASE AND HARDWARE.