Collection, Treatment and Disposal of acidic water:

During Charging of lead acid traction batteries/cells, the dilute sulphuric acid which is available inside the battery/cell spills out. Some time the cells also become surface wet with acidic droplets these cells are washed with water/wiped with wet cloth before the battery or cell is dispatched to the customer. The overall process flow diagram is illustrated below;

Charging of battery/cells

Collection of acidic water in a tank

Treating of acidic water with caustic soda (NaOH) solution till the PH of the water becomes 6-8

Disposing the treated effluent to the concerned agency

The acidic effluent is collected in a plastic non corrosive tank. Once the tank is filled 3/4th of its capacity, caustic soda solution is added & stirred well to neutralise the acid till the PH of the effluent reaches 6-8. The PH can be checked using a litmus paper. After neutralisation the effluent is ready for the disposal at the designated industrial effluent collection centre or at the common effluent treatment plant.

Use of Personnel protective equipment: acids are corrosive in nature harms skin & eye. It is
strongly recommended to use the following personnel protective equipment (PPE) during freshening charge & during the handling of the effluent

Pay attention to the operation instruction and fix them close to the battery. Charging of batteries/cells to be carried out by skilled personnel only!

Risk of explosion and fire, avoid short circuits! Caution: Metal parts of the battery are always live. Do not place tools or other metal objects on the battery/cells!

Use protective glasses and clothes when working on batteries. Pay attention to the accident prevention rules.

Electrolyte/effluent is corrosive. Use rubber gloves, do not touch with bare hands.

No smoking! Do not expose batteries to naked flames during charging, glowing embers or sparks, as it may cause the battery to explode.

Acid splashes in the eyes or on the skin must be washed with water. In case of accident consult a doctor immediately! Clothing contaminated by acid should be washed with water.

Dangerous voltage Keep children away!