36vdc batteries in 32vdc system

[partgypsy]

I have an older setup which runs on 32vdc. I don't want to convert it to 12 vdc because all the parts work.

My question is about batteries.

Eight-volt batteries linked in series (4) are hard to come by and expensive, so I have been using 3 x 12 vdc batteries. The charger is an older 32 vdc Charles ferro-resonant. This does not have an automatic feature and tends to boil off the electrolyte. The genset is an old Diesel who's engine electrics, pumps, etc. run on 32vdc. Solar panels are easily configured into multiples of 12 volts, so I'm good there. I also have a smaller stand-alone 12 vdc setup.

I need expert advice on two aspects:

1. - What is the downside of charging 36vdc battery bank to only ~32vdc? What can I do to overcome any downside?
   
2. - Is there anything I can buy or build that will shut down the charger when the battery bank reaches ~32vdc? The low tech way would be a timer, but I would hope that there is something that can read the voltage and perhaps switch a relay to stop the charger?
   
   

I am away from the setup for no more than a few days at a time, so I don't need to worry about the batteries becoming discharged when I'm away, but I also don't want the charger to keep charging the batteries either.

Thanks

Gordon

[Flux]

Sorry you can't charge a 36v battery to 32v. If you can live with 36v fine but even then you will see full charge voltages of about 43v.

Flux

[Flux]

Why don't you use 5 six volt batteries and work at nominal 30v that will be near enough to your 32v.

Awkward for inverters but so would 36v be, if it is an old set up you may not be interested in inverters. In a cool area 2 12v panels may put something into 30v, in a hot area you will need 3 panels in series. Most 32v systems are now generally run at 24v, not without some problems but it is convenient in many ways.

Flux

[coldspot]

partgypsy-

 Hi.

Glad to see that somebody else is trying to deal with 32 volt stuff.

 I have a "BEST" brand inverter thats 32 volts and rated as 3,000 watts with surge to 10,000 watts.(still untested)

 I was going to try setting it up at 30 volts using 6 volt batteries. The manual stated that under 28 would shut it down and 36 was to high.

 (maybe this summer/spring I'll get far enough to start playing with some of the stuff I've collected, at least I can dream that I can, LOL!  )

[ghurd]

Some new golf carts are using 8V batteries.

Sam's Club carries them for about $70.

G-

[Nothing40]

What about using 16x 2V cells?

[Nothing40]

Another thought; Maybe use a couple forklift batteries,and cut the buss-bars to re-arrange the cells to 32V?