Conductance Testing Defined and Evaluated

When Facility or Maintenance Engineers, Operations Managers or Power Provision Operators consider back-up power options that include battery systems, it is quite typically as a "last line of defense" for their power application. Stationary (or standby power) batteries have been installed in ever increasing numbers by a wide variety of organizations in varying industries in recent years. Included among these firms are communications and data related companies worldwide who view these systems as an insurance policy against the risks, and ultimately losses associated with disruptions or temporary loss of the power supplied from the commercial power grid. However, with the introduction of a wide number of variables, including environmental fluctuations, application variations, and design inconsistencies, continued reliability from stationary batteries is not a guaranteed result from the time of installation. Most organizations that rely on stationary batteries for back-up power recognize that proper consistent, and effective testing or monitoring of the stationary batteries within the systems (including detailed testing to the individual battery cell level) is essential for effective system cost management, power assurance and peace of mind.