Is it possible to run a SmartUPS VT 40kVa without batteries?

[Anonymous user]

Some back ground:

We are trying to install two of the SmartUPS VT into a new office location. They have been in storage for about 9months since we decommisioned an old server room, the agent we have doing the commissioning has told us that the batteries are all deeply discharged and will not hold a charge and have a danger of exploding.

We have taken the advice at face value and we have begun the procurement process for a complete set of new batteries. However I need to know that the UPS units themselves are still functional. The lead time on the new batteries is quite substantial and I need to confirm that I am not spending money on batteries for dead units.

So my questions are:

• Is it possible to run the UPS up to test it without any batteries (not able to test running without mains power I know)?
• If it is not possible run without any batteries what is the minimum number of batteries that we could use to test the operation of the UPS?
• How real is the chance of battery explosion and are we talking about something akin to a Nuclear detonation, a bang, a pop or a Phht?

I would appreciate any assistance or guidance from the community or APC.

[BillP · Accepted solution]

Hello,

Our 3 phase team helped me answer your questions:

Is it possible to run the UPS up to test it without any batteries (not able to test running without mains power I know)?

Sorry, no - batteries are required to start the unit.

If it is not possible run without any batteries what is the minimum number of batteries that we could use to test the operation of the UPS?

Minimum is QNTY4 SYBTU1-PLP (four battery cartridges, 192VDC/219VDC float)

How real is the chance of battery explosion and are we talking about something akin to a Nuclear detonation, a bang, a pop or a Phht?

I would suggest trying the batts as is - if they are still in good enough health to test the UPS, the unit will start as soon as mains is applied and the batteries are inserted into the unit. It is rather unlikely the batteries will explode, more likely they will vent (Phht) followed by electrolyte leaking (gurgle) into the UPS. This scenario will take some time, it won't happen in the short amount of time when testing the UPS on mains. Besides, the UPS will report high battery temp before anything severe  happens.

[Anonymous user]

Thanks Angela - Very helpful information all round.