Automobile Batteries

Just like human body needs a heart to work, automobiles also depend on their indispensable part- batteries which make them run. There are many other parts in a human body and a heart, which can make both these bodies work but incompletely as they are the requisites. A minor problem can become a major problem in just no time putting you at a lifetime risk, in both the cases whether it’s a car or a human being.

In literal words, the foremost function of an Automobile Battery is to supply electrical energy to the motor and controlling the ignition system of an automobile. Its main function is to provide power to the vehicle’s starter. Usually it is referred to as SLI battery (starting, lightning, and ignition), it powers the motor, lights the head and tail lamps and ignites the engine.

The three most important thing of an automotive battery are: amp/hour rating, its chemistry and its voltage. Automobile batteries has two terminals (+)positive and (-)negative. Battery Acid is very corrosive and will eat through metal.

Automotive starter batteries are generally of lead-acid type provide a minimum of 12-volts. It works by connecting six galvanic cells, which are in series. Each cell approximately provides 2.1 volts on a total of 12.6 volts. Lead-acid batteries, made up of lead plates and separate plates of lead oxide. These lead plates are submerged into an electrolyte solution of about 35% sulfuric acid and 65% water causing a chemical reaction that as a result releases electrons, allowing them to flow through conductors to produce electricity. When the battery starts discharging , the acid of the electrolyte reacts with the materials of the plates, changing their surface to lead sulfate.

Its different types

Lead acid batteries, the different construction technique depends upon the application of the battery. The Flood cell batteries, which indicate liquid electrolyte are more commonly used in today’s time. AGM or Absorbed glass mat battery is without liquid electrolytes and is gradually gaining acceptance by the SLI users.

Batteries specified with SLI systems deliver a heavy current and has a low degree of discharge on each use. They constitute of many thin plates, which are separated by thin separators and have a higher specific gravity electrolyte, which reduces internal resistance. Deep-cycle batteries have fewer, thicker plates and have a greater depth of discharge on each cycle, but do not provide high current on heavy loads.

Use and Maintenance

Batteries having lead batteries require regular watering up to maintain the water amount which was lost due to electrolysis on each charging cycle. More recent designs have lower water loss unless overcharged. Modern car batteries do not need much of maintenance, and many a times do not provide caps for addition of water to the cells. These batteries have extra electrolyte above the plates, which allows loss during the battery life.

Batteries should be charged timely if stored to retain their capacity. Stored batteries should be fully charged and cleaned of corrosion deposits and should be put in a dry environment for its longevity. During winter season, a charger should be used to keep it topped. The cables should be attached securely and vent hose routed properly.

Automobile Batteries, the most indispensable part of two- wheelers or four-wheelers should be taken care of properly. Without which your assets are incomplete.