Valves for immobilized electrolyte lead-acid batteries requirements, design, and performance

A valve is a device that regulates gas or liquid flow by opening and closing to maintain a predefined condition, whether on the input or exit side of the valve. When employed in the immobilized electrolyte lead-acid battery (IE) the valve´s primary functions are to prevent air (oxygen) from entering the cell and to vent excess gasses from the cell. This paper reports on a chronological trace of those inputs necessary to arrive at a bunsen valve for a relatively thin walled plastic battery container. The study begins with design concepts and concludes with the basis for a nonempirical approach to valve design. It is anticipated that this work will aid design engineers in their efforts to provide a satisfactory venting system. Also, the battery user should gain a better understanding of valve performance and characteristics. This knowledge will help in the selection of battery product. Although this paper deals with a specific valve design, i.e. a bunsen cup valve, it can be employed in the conception of most valve configurations