Storage Batteries in Substations

[pipetron]

We are installing a new lineup of 4160V switchgear. The substation was bought from a major manufacturer and came with all provisions in place for the 125VDC power system, except the battery and charger which we decided to purchase seperately. The gear is metal-clad gear with a walk in aisleway and open areas at each end of the gear. The battery system, AC distribution panel and DC distribution panel are located in one of these open areas. The gear is currently set up with a thermostatically controlled ventilation fan. We are also planning to install a hydrogen gas monitor. The manufacturer used FMC in the substation for the entrances and exits from the distribution panels and for the battery system connections they had put in place for us to use.

During the install our electrical contractor pointed out NEC 348.12(3.)

We questioned the mfg and their response is that this is not a battery storage room.

Any advice on this application would be appreciated

 

[jdsmith]

I would interpret a battery storage room to be a space used primarily for enclosing batteries. The space you have described would be primarily a substation, not a battery room. We have some rooms with large UPS battery banks and the only items in the room are the battery banks and disconnects - that is my idea of a battery room that falls under 348.12(3).

 

[brian john]

I agree with JD.

In addition what is the average ambient in the summer and winter in this room? If these are lead acid batteries they will provide their optimum design performance at 77 degrees f. Below this temperature and the battery will provide less power than at 77 degrees f above 77 degree f and the battery will provide more power but the life of the battery will be shortened and warranty may (WILL) be voided.

 

[pipetron]

The batteries are NiCad.

Don't have any history on the temperatures.
There is thermostatically controlled heat and ventilation. The heat seems to be doing fine as tested by the recent cold weather. Summer temperatures are TBD. I'll be blowing in ambient air in the summer.