Cover assemblies for electric storage batteries and batteries utilizing

Abstract

A cover assembly for a multicell, lead-acid electric storage battery, which is capable of having each cell independently pressure checked for leaks by using pressure testing equipment having a pressure head tip is provided, which cover assembly comprises a primary cover member and one or more cover piece members sealed to the primary cover member and substantially defines a venting system comprising process holes for communicating with each cell, a trapping chamber communicating with each process hole, the trapping chambers being manifolded into one or more sets, and an exhaust port communicating with each set of manifolded trapping chambers and the ambient; wherein the process holes comprise a cap, an outer opening receiving the cap, an annular step and a first and second barrel in substantially coaxial alignment with the outer opening, and apertures, the annular step providing a surface upon which may be placed the pressure head tip of said pressure testing equipment for independently pressure checking the cell when the cap is removed from said outer opening, and defining an inner opening having a diameter less than those of the outer opening and the first barrel and for providing the exclusive means for gaseous communication and electrolyte drainage between the cell and the interior of the first barrel, the first and second barrels generally extending around and between the annular step and the outer opening, the second barrel being disposed generally concentrically around the first barrel, and the apertures providing means for gaseous communication and electrolyte drainage between the trapping chamber and the interior of the first barrel.