Engineering topics
Publications and source records attributed to Bragg, B. J..
Texts included: short circuit analysis, voltage reversal, high temperature exposure, parallel loading sharing, capacity tests, shock and vibration tests, and assembly tests. Both the AA and D cell configurations were tested. Certification of the cells is discussed and applications are highlighted.
Results of cyclic tests on seven 3-cell 100 A-H nickel cadmium batteries on 1.5 hr cycles are presented. The failure of the nylon and polypropylene separators was not analyzed.
Experiences with batteries for the Apollo Soyuz Test Project are related and the need for safety criteria for space shuttle orbiter and payload battery handling and design is assessed.
Three lithium SO2 cells, two lithium CF cells, and a vinyl chloride cell, all with crimped seals, and all strictly experimental, were independently discharged on resistors. Three temperatures were used and several different storage temperatures. Discharge rate generally on the nominal discharges were 0.1 amp, 0.5 amp, and 1 amp. Tests results show that the crimp seals are inadequate, especially for the SO2 cells. Normal discharges present no hazards. All cells discharge to zero. The problem of lithium cell explosions, such as occurred during off-limits testing, is discussed.