I work with a number of high-profile golf clubs
I am increasingly seeing golf clubs provide trolley sheds with battery charging facilities for member’s electric trolleys (not ride on disabled trolleys but golf bag, battery-powered, self-propelled trolleys)
Seeing 100 batteries on charge at the same time is not uncommon, I have one client where that number is generally over 400
Seeing Pro shops with 10 on charge is also not uncommon, stuck around the back of the shop, in areas of multiple sources of combustion and away from the public eye.
There are a number of proprietary types but the most popular by far is
http://www.powakaddy.co.uk/They have a number of battery sizes, both lead acid and lithium ion type, member’s trolleys can vary hugely in age and charger type.
My concern is the charging process, the integrity of the chargers and fire prevention.
Most golf clubs employ a handyman, I advise clubs purchase a portable appliance tester, provide training and ensure competence on the use of it, and test all battery chargers on a 6 monthly basis as they are high use.
Chargers are generally on all the time, and if a member goes on holiday for a month, he will just leave his battery on charge for the duration
Chargers should turn themselves off when battery reaches full strength but it does not stop them getting hot
Chargers that come with the batteries are supplied by the battery manufacturers, although the clubs have no way of preventing members from buying replacement batteries and chargers from e-bay
For your entertainment
I yesterday encountered
A shed that has 150 chargers
Outside is a tank holding 2000 litres of kerosene and a 12 x 8 wooden shed full of teak benches
Oh and this trolley shed has no fire suppression or fire detection system, it does though have a single always locked door with a very pretty fire exit sign over the top
Concerning only the charging process and potential fire risk, can anyone offer any insight into the fire potential that charging so many batteries in a single location presents.