COLD TEMPERATURE TESTS OF HEATED/INSULATED BATTERY FOR AM GENERAL DJ-5E JEEPS

The U. S. Postal Service operates approximately 400 electric vehicles; predominantly AM General DJ-5E vehicles with a 1300-pound (590 kilogram), 3.22 cubic foot (9 X 10** - **2 cubic meter), 54-volt Gould propulsion battery. The purpose of this effort was to determine practical solutions for maintaining the battery in an operable condition, i.e. electrolyte temperature above 50 degree F (10 degree C), over weekend "cold-soak" periods in ambient temperatures as low as 15 degree F ( - 9.5 degree C). Cold chamber tests were conducted on both the unwrapped battery and on the battery with a combination of various types of heat sources and insulation. Test results indicated that a heat source of about 300 watts with a foil-faced insulation cover and heat cycling by thermostatic control would maintain the battery in an operable condition. As a result of this effort, the vehicles will now be able to complete assigned routes in these low ambient temperatures after weekend "cold-soak" periods.

  • Supplemental Notes:
    • From the Meeting held 26 February-2 March 1979.
  • Corporate Authors:

    Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)

    400 Commonwealth Drive
    Warrendale, PA  United States  15096
  • Authors:
    • Gerlach, L J
  • Publication Date: 1979

Media Info

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00197237
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Source Agency: Engineering Index
  • Report/Paper Numbers: SAE 790115 Conf Paper
  • Files: TRIS
  • Created Date: Sep 15 1979 12:00AM