TO: All ATP Technicians
FROM: James Strong, Customer/Technical Service Mgr.
RE: Hybrid Battery Cooling Filters
As we may all know, a hybrid vehicle is a vehicle that utilizes both an electric motor and a gas or diesel powered engine which work in tandem to decrease fuel consumption. Probably, the most expensive unit in the Hybrid vehicle would be the HV (high voltage) NiMH (Nickel-metal hydride) battery. Prices for these batteries are not cheap, they can range anywhere from $3,000.00 to a whopping $7,000.00 depending on the make, model and battery design. These batteries are by far different from the standard lead-acid galvanic 12 volt cell batteries.
As the Hybrid System charges and discharges the high voltage Hybrid Battery Pack, large amounts of heat (up to 140° Fahrenheit) is created. In order to dissipate this heat, an air door is opened so that outside air can flow inside the battery compartment to cool the battery. However, if the battery temperature increases over 85° F, the air door will close and the vehicle’s computer will automatically signal the air conditioning unit to turn on so that the battery can be cooled via the inside (cabin) air.
The air flow for the HV battery is filtered by a serviceable filter, (Battery Cooling Filter) similar to an interior ventilation filter (cabin filter). Like cabin filters, these filters should be serviced every 12,000 miles or sooner depending on severity of operation. A dirty or clogged Battery Cooling Filter will substantially reduce the required air flow to the battery.
Most Battery Cooling Filters are very easy to remove and replace (up to five minutes). These filters are usually located at the rear of the vehicle inside the battery compartment.
Hybrid batteries can reach anywhere from 144 to 650 volts DC (direct current) depending on the manufacturer, vehicle and battery design. NOTE: DO NOT SERVICE HYBRID VEHICLE BATTERIES OR ANY ELECTRICAL UNITS IF YOU HAVE NOT BEEN QUALIFIED OR TRAINED TO DO SO. RESULT IN SEVERE INJURY OR DEATH MAY OCCUR.
For additional coverage on hybrid cooling battery filters, please visit our website at www.atp-inc.com and click on the catalog tab to enter your vehicle’s application, or you can email our technical department by clicking on the e-tech link to leave any technical or cataloging questions.
Thank you for your support on installing ATP Professional Auto Parts.