Lead-acid batteries are very commonly used storage batteries which offer solutions to several situations of power requirement. The basic concept in the construction of lead-acid batteries is to generate electrical energy out of chemical reaction between metals and electrolyte triggered by an electric load and storing it. Factors like components used, temperature, porosity, diffusion, charge and the load decide the efficacy of lead-acid batteries.
Composition of Lead-Acid Batteries
Two different metal plates – lead dioxide (PbO2) for positive plate and Sponger lead (Pb) for negative plate – are alternated using separators and immersed in diluted sulfuric acid(H2 SO4) acting as electrolyte. When electrical load is applied, circuit between positive and negative terminals is completed and electrical current flows.
A 12 volts battery, for instance, has six cells each capable of producing about 2.1 volts power. These cells are connected in series. Each cell has interconnected positive plates, and interconnected negative plates. These plates are kept separate from electrically shorting each other by thin sheets of electrically insulated porous separators. Positive and negative plates are alternated within the cell. A plate is constituted by a metal grid that supports the framework for the active porous material to freely diffuse. Cells thus created are inserted into high density hard rubber case. After connecting the terminals, the case is closed and flooded with diluted sulfuric acid which acts as electrolyte.
Porosity and Diffusion
Porosity and diffusion are two major considerations in the construction of battery. Allowing the electrolyte to reach the interior of the plate through pits and tunnels is the porosity. During the use of the battery the acid must get into contact with the plate material. Such spreading and blending of different fluids with one another is the diffusion. Levels of diffusion increase if the pores are large and the temperature is warm.
Battery Aging
The discharge-recharge cycles cause expansion and contraction leading to shedding-off active positive plate materials. This is more pronounced during cold climates. This sediment settles down at the bottom and can short the cell. Then the battery is considered dead. Corrosion of positive grid materials, buckling of plates, positive grid growth and water evaporation can be the major causes of aging of battery during hot climates. Other aspects influencing the aging factor are undercharging, overcharging, heat, deep discharges and non-usage. Using any water other than distilled water could cause serious damage to the life of battery by producing calcium sulfate. When the plates receive sulfate coating and pores filled up, the condition is known as sulfation. Sulfation adversely affects the active materials in the plates, which fail to sustain discharged power. In such an event the battery is considered dead. Reviving, restoring and recharging a dead battery are very cumbersome and often not possible.
Some Useful Tips
- Ensure that the electrolyte submerges the lead plates.
- Check for corrosion in the terminal clamps and cables.
- Check if the alternator belt, hold-down clamps, cable terminals are loose.
- Check if the battery case is damaged or leaking.
- Make necessary adjustments and follow all the instructions provided in the manufacturer’s manual regarding charging and maintenance procedures.
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