Passport characteristics of rechargeable batteries. Specifications of car batteries Rechargeable battery discharge current 5

Without a battery, a car turns into useless real estate - only rare modern cars are allowed to start from a push. The battery serves as a power source not only for the starter, but also for numerous electronic devices responsible for the safety or comfort of the vehicle. That is why - the wrong device can cause the car to fail at the wrong time or even damage it. To avoid such mistakes, you should carefully consider the main characteristics of the battery for the car.

Compatibility

Modern batteries are as unified as possible, which makes it easier to choose them, but there are still many differences between the batteries. The main distinguishing feature of the battery is its nominal voltage. There are three main types of batteries:

• 6 Volts - for mopeds, buggies, some ATVs and other light vehicles;
• 12 volts - all cars, most motorcycles and ATVs;
• 24 Volt - heavy diesel trucks, special equipment.

Of course, there are non-standard batteries, but they are equipped only with equipment made in a single copy.

Most modern batteries still have the classic lead-acid layout. It can not be called the most efficient, but this technology allows you to achieve the optimal balance between the characteristics of the battery and its cost. Recently, gel batteries have begun to gain popularity. The principle of their operation is similar, however, such batteries contain a very thick electrolyte that does not allow gases to escape to the outside - this improves the performance of the device and makes it as safe as possible. There are batteries made using nickel-metal hydride technology and lithium batteries (lithium-ion, lithium-polymer, lithium-phosphate) - these are usually intended for hybrid vehicles and are not compatible with the power grid of a conventional car.

Technologies

The most widespread in Russia are serviced batteries, which require regular topping up with distilled water to maintain the properties of the electrolyte. The main advantage of this technology is the low cost of the product, as well as its excellent reliability. A serviced battery is not afraid of deep discharge and can be restored after a long period of storage of the car in the open air in the cold. A very popular modification of such batteries is low-maintenance devices that require distilled water to be replenished about once a year, compared to 2-3 times for conventional serviced batteries. Such devices have an extended service life and greater frost resistance.

However, maintenance-free batteries have recently entered the Russian market, which do not require electrolyte topping up at all and can operate without human intervention throughout the entire shelf life. The liquid in their jars can be soaked into a special fiberglass filler that prevents it from evaporating. In addition, and have recently been developed, the technical characteristics of which also make it possible to call them maintenance-free. Thanks to the addition of silicon to the electrolyte, it turns into a thick gel that does not evaporate and does not change its volume even under the influence of strong heat. Gel batteries are considered the safest - due to the complete absence of gas formation, they can be stored even in residential areas.

Since lead does not tolerate long-term exposure to an aggressive environment, which is an electrolyte based on sulfuric acid, it must be alloyed to obtain the required reliability parameters. The most commonly used is antimony, which makes the battery much more resistant to influences such as heat and cold. However, batteries with a large amount of antimony have a rather serious drawback, which is represented by boiling of the electrolyte with significant deviations of electrical parameters from the norm. To eliminate this drawback, batteries with other alloying substances were developed - calcium was the most popular.

Calcium batteries are very reliable and durable, and are practically not subject to destruction when exposed to shock loads and vibrations. Calcium sulfate formed in contact with sulfuric acid coats the lead plates of the battery, protecting them from corrosion and excessive overheating during recharging. As a result, calcium-type devices can withstand power surges of up to 25% without significant damage. It would seem that calcium batteries, efficient and inexpensive to manufacture, should completely oust other types of devices from the market. However, it is worth paying attention to the significant disadvantages of such batteries:

• Loss of half the capacity during the first deep discharge without the possibility of its subsequent recovery;
• After the loss of 70% of the capacity, there is a possibility of a complete failure of the battery - this can happen if the car is left for a long time with the electrical equipment turned on;
• Calcium devices must not be used in vehicles with faulty electrical equipment - this is guaranteed to disrupt their normal operation;
• At temperatures below -30 degrees, it is better to store a calcium battery in a warm room - otherwise it will not be possible to obtain a guarantee of its serviceability;
• To recharge such a device, you will need an expensive electronically controlled charger.

To get rid of the disadvantages of calcium and antimony batteries, many large companies have launched hybrid batteries that use both alloying elements. They have moderate reliability and capacity, but are not damaged by deep discharge and do not require compliance with such strict rules. There are alternative hybrid batteries, in which the second alloying element, in addition to calcium, is silver. Such devices are very reliable and durable, as well as immune to rapid deep discharge, but understandably expensive. Low antimony batteries are also produced, in which the content of the alloying element does not exceed 3% - they are immune to heat and deep discharge, but have a limited useful life.

Additional Information

Serviced batteries allow you to control the electrolyte level without the slightest problem - just unscrew the cap of one can to see if you need to top up with distilled water. However, low-maintenance and maintenance-free devices do not provide such an opportunity - without the help of a specialist, it will not be possible to gain access to the internal components of such batteries. Electrolyte density control is carried out in them with the help of a special indicator called a “magic eye”. Depending on the degree of battery wear, it changes its color from green to red, signaling the need for service or replacement of the power source. In models with white walls, the electrolyte level can be measured by shining a flashlight on them.

Many modern batteries are equipped with a porous polyethylene separator, which is installed inside their case - such a device prevents the plates from shorting to each other and essentially the device. The separator improves the performance of the power supply by preventing it from being destroyed by prolonged exposure to vibrations or strong shocks. Another protective component for the battery is a flame cutter, which prevents fire and explosion if a spark hits the case. It is used in high-quality devices in serviced and low-maintenance configurations, increasing the level of vehicle protection.

When the battery is very hot, the sulfuric acid contained in the electrolyte is able to evaporate, forming a corrosive aerosol. Its appearance is a threat to the safety of transport, and also reduces the residual life of the device. To eliminate these problems, the aerosol must be captured and deposited back into the tanks. For this, battery covers with a labyrinth shape are used - it allows the electrolyte to be deposited in the form of condensate flowing into the banks through special channels.

Batteries can be equipped with protective covers and caps that prevent accidental contact of the terminals with metal parts of the car or wires - with their help, it is possible to avoid serious electrical system problems. Some models of non-standard sizes, for example, Asian batteries or products for special equipment, may be equipped with a set of adapters. They often include pads to secure wide terminals to thin rods, as well as extra length wires for quick polarity changes. Among the features of the batteries, the presence of a carrying handle should also be mentioned - it helps out motorists who have to lift the power source to the high floor of an apartment building to warm it up.

Optimal choice

When choosing a battery, be sure to pay attention to its compatibility with your car - just mix up the voltage or polarity so that the device is not suitable for the vehicle. Estimate the engine size and climatic conditions in which the car will be operated - the capacity and current strength of cold scrolling depend on these parameters. Only after determining these characteristics, proceed to the selection of a battery according to its manufacturing technology. If the car will be used in a warm climate, it is worth giving preference to a calcium model, and in a cold climate - a hybrid or low antimony one. Remember to check if the battery you choose meets the reliability and safety standards.

This question is periodically asked by customers who buy wheel motors, accessories and batteries for self-conversion of bicycles to electric traction. At first glance, it may seem that there are no current limits in the electric kits and you need to enter them yourself. Actually it is not.

Both lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries can briefly withstand a maximum current of up to 10 s without destruction, that is, a discharge current that is 10 times higher than their rated capacity. For example, lead-acid batteries with a capacity of 12 ampere hours can be briefly loaded with a current of 120 amperes, and lithium-ion batteries with a capacity of 10 ampere hours can be briefly loaded with a current of 100 amperes.

However, for constant loads, these values ​​\u200b\u200bmust be reduced by at least 2 times, that is, up to 5s. In Volta bikes lithium batteries, this limitation is implemented in an electronic safety circuit built into the battery. It limits the discharge current to a safe value of 5s, and the voltage to 30 volts. When the load is exceeded or the voltage drops below the set limits, the circuit disconnects the battery from the wheel motor, thereby protecting it and providing an estimated service life of about 5 years.

Lead-acid batteries do not have this circuit. Here, the maximum discharge current is limited by the controller itself - to the maximum value specified in its characteristics. When the voltage drops below 10.5 volts (based on a single lead-acid battery), the Volta bikes controllers also disconnect the batteries from the wheel motor to prevent them from sulphating and destroying them. In addition, a fuse or circuit breaker must be present in the electric bicycle circuit, which serve as protection not only against short circuits, but also against overloads. When converting your bike to electric traction yourself, we recommend installing a 20 amp circuit breaker.

Thus, accidentally or even intentionally going beyond the safe operating limits of Volta bikes lead-acid or lithium batteries will not work. Another question is that a completely discharged battery of any kind should be put on charge as soon as possible and, in any case, it is strongly not recommended to leave an electric bike with discharged batteries for the winter - somewhere in the garage. Such actions just lead to the rapid failure of all types of batteries for electric vehicles.

Another misconception is that batteries need to be charged only after a complete discharge - thus, supposedly, the maximum number of charge-discharge cycles specified in the technical specifications is ensured. Think: if you do this with the battery of your own car, for example, drive with a faulty generator, and charge the battery at home, after trips, from the charger, then in this mode of operation the starter battery will last at best 2-3 months.

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And gel lead-acid batteries for electric bikes, and AGM batteries, too, differ from starter batteries only in that their electrodes are thicker and they are better fixed in the case to prevent the active mass from shedding. Therefore, they should be recharged as often as possible - after each trip. The same applies to lithium-ion batteries for electric bikes.

As for large discharge currents, it should be remembered that the larger the discharge current, the faster it will completely discharge the batteries of an electric bicycle or electric scooter. Current with a constant load of 1s, - will discharge high-quality batteries of any type in 1 hour; current 2s - already in half an hour, and 4s - in just 15 minutes. Where can you get with such electricity consumption?

Therefore, we recommend:
Firstly, it is economical to use electricity if you need to increase the driving distance (please read the article on this topic), and secondly, if the batteries run out in less than 50-60 minutes under standard travel modes for you, this is a reason to think about replacing them with more powerful ones.

When choosing and operating a battery, you need to pay attention to its basic properties. The technical characteristics of car batteries will determine the appropriateness of using devices on a specific vehicle model.

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The device and purpose of batteries in cars

The main design feature of any type of battery is that it consists of several batteries. They are called banks and are mounted inside the structure. In 12-volt devices, such elements are rated for approximately 2 volts, they are connected to each other in a series manner.

The design of the battery includes:

1. banks directly. These components are made in the form of a set of plates of different poles. They are isolated from each other by means of acid-resistant separators.
2. Structure body. Usually made from ebonite or acid-resistant plastic. Inside the case there are special compartments in which cans are mounted.
3. The pole plate itself is made of lead and is made in the form of a lattice. A porous-type composition is pressed into the cells located inside, which is designed to increase the area of ​​contact with the working fluid - electrolyte. This active substance is made from lead powder, sulfuric acid is also added to it, and borium sulfate is added to the negative plates. When a battery is manufactured, these cells are charged, which leads to the formation of lead dioxide in positive devices. In the negative, spongy metal is formed.
4. The electrolyte solution is poured into the battery banks. The fluid is used to move charged cells from the negative pole to the positive pole. The working solution is made from distillate (purified water), as well as sulfuric acid.

The battery itself is one of the main components in a vehicle. Functioning in the on-board network of the machine together with the generator device, the battery is a source of electrical energy.

The battery user told about the design features of car batteries.

The functions that the device performs:

1. Starting the power unit. At the moment when the generator unit has not yet been started, voltage from the battery is supplied to the starter device during start-up.
2. Providing current to all electrical equipment of the vehicle when the engine is off.
3. The possibility of powering the devices and devices of the machine while driving, when the generator unit is overloaded.

Since it is limited, it is not recommended to use the device for a long time and turn on all energy consumers with the motor turned off. The battery, working in tandem with the generator set, smooths out the pulsations of the electric current in the network of the machine.

Main types of batteries

Devices are divided among themselves according to the following parameters:

• the composition of the inner plates;
• technological performance.

In motorcycle equipment, batteries are installed, designed for 6 volts, in automobiles - for 12 V, and in trucks - for 24 V.

Depending on the composition of the plates

According to this property, batteries are divided into:

• low antimony;
• hybrid;
• calcium;
• helium;
• alkaline;
• lithium-ion.

The Feedback Book channel briefly spoke about the types of car batteries and the nuances of their choice.

Low antimony batteries

Such devices use plates with a reduced amount of antimony (less than 5 percent), which makes it possible to reduce the rate of evaporation of liquid from the electrolyte solution. This allows car owners not to constantly add distilled water to the jars. But this does not mean that such batteries do not need maintenance (they are considered low-maintenance). There is a partial loss of the solution, so periodically car owners need to check the fluid level and add it.

Main advantages:

1. Reduced degree of self-discharge of the device during storage, when compared with traditional antimony models.
2. Resistance to the electrical parameters of the on-board network of the machine. When power surges appear, the main properties of the battery will not be affected. Therefore, many experts recommend using a similar type of battery on Russian-made vehicles. Such cars are characterized by unstable voltage in the mains.
3. Affordable cost compared to other types of batteries.

Hybrid batteries

This type of battery is marked with the symbols Ca + or Ca / Sb on the case. The lattice elements of the electrodes in them can be made according to different methods. Plus components are produced with the addition of antimony, and minus components are produced using calcium technology. The hybrid type of device was created in order to combine the positive characteristics of other types of batteries. But in the end, all properties turned out to be average.

Compared to devices of a low antimony type, the consumption of working fluid in such batteries is less, but much more than in calcium ones. The main advantage of this type of battery is its high resistance to deep discharge, as well as voltage fluctuations in the vehicle's on-board network.

The Batteryman user spoke in detail about the hybrid varieties of devices and the features of their operation.

Calcium batteries

The main difference of this type is the use of calcium in lead gratings instead of antimony, which made it possible to reduce the amount of liquid evaporation. Such batteries are marked Ca / Ca on the case. This indicates the use of calcium in the grids of both electrodes—negative and positive.

Depending on the manufacturer, silver may be added to the composition of the device, which allows:

• reduce the internal resistance of the device;
• increase the efficiency;
• increase the capacitance value.

But one of the main features of calcium batteries was the decrease in the intensity of electrolysis, as a result of which the solution of the working fluid practically does not evaporate. Due to this, the car owner loses the opportunity to periodically diagnose the level and measure the density. In addition, such batteries are characterized by a reduced degree of self-discharge. This parameter is approximately 70% less compared to obsolete antimony devices.

This allows the battery to retain its operational properties much longer if it is not used. Replacing antimony with calcium made it possible to increase the voltage required to start the electrolysis process - from 12 to 16 volts. Accordingly, overdischarge is not critical for such devices.

Disadvantages specific to calcium devices:

1. Such batteries are more sensitive to increased discharge compared to traditional batteries. The battery lasts about three strong cycles, which will lead to an irreversible decrease in capacity. Accordingly, as a result, the battery will be able to accumulate less current and will be less powerful. The device will need to be replaced.
2. Because of this shortcoming, the consumer needs to regularly monitor the state of the on-board network of the machine. Calcium devices are more sensitive to the stability of electrical parameters in a car. Voltage fluctuations will negatively affect the functioning of batteries in general. Before installing the battery, you must make sure that the generator unit is in good condition. It also requires diagnostics of the regulatory device and other equipment that affects the magnitude of the voltage.
3. The cost of calcium devices is much higher compared to low antimony ones. Such batteries are usually installed on modern foreign cars with a standard set of functions. We are talking about vehicles in which high-quality equipment is installed and the stability of electrical parameters is guaranteed.

When buying a calcium battery, it must be remembered that deep discharge is not allowed during the operation of such a device.

The Avto-Blogger channel spoke about the features of charging this type of car batteries.

Gel batteries

Such devices are manufactured using GEL and AGM technologies, they use an electrolyte in a bound form. This type of battery solved the problem of safe use. In traditional batteries, the working fluid can leak out of the structure if the case is damaged or turned over. And sulfuric acid itself is an aggressive compound that poses a danger to the human body. In helium devices, the electrolyte solution is placed in a bound state, which helps to reduce its fluidity.

Also, this technology made it possible to reduce the amount of shedding of the active component of the plates. The only difference between the AGM and GEL devices is the method of binding the working fluid. In the first case, a porous fiberglass located between the plates is impregnated with a solution. And in the second, the liquid is converted into a gel-like form through the use of silicon compounds in the composition.

As a result of the fact that liquid electrolyte is practically not used in the design, such batteries are not afraid of being used in an inclined position. But still, it is not recommended to operate the batteries upside down.

The main advantages of gel devices:

1. Low self-discharge. Therefore, they can be stored for a long time without the need for recharging.
2. Vibration resistant.
3. The main advantage lies in the ability of the battery to deliver a high starting current, regardless of the charge of the device. And almost at full discharge. This allows you to increase the service life, because after starting the engine, the battery will still be charged.
4. Ability to withstand a large number of charge-discharge cycles. On average, this figure is about two hundred.

The main disadvantage of the battery is its high sensitivity. Charging this type of device must be carried out with a lower amount of current compared to traditional lead-acid models. To recharge the battery, chargers with special characteristics must be used. Also, this type of device is very demanding on the stability of the parameters of the electrical network of the vehicle.

When working in conditions of severe cold, the conductivity of the gel-like liquid solution is significantly reduced, so the battery may behave incorrectly. Ideally, the service life of such devices is about ten years, but in fact you should not count on more than seven. In modern vehicles, such batteries are rarely used, due to their high cost compared to other types. They have found wide application in motorcycle technology, as well as water vehicles.

The Avto-Blogger channel spoke in detail about the advantages and disadvantages of helium car batteries.

Alkaline batteries

The battery uses alkali instead of acid. In automobile vehicles, they are rarely used, since out of the whole variety there are only two types of starter batteries. The devices are equipped with plus and minus plates, the former are coated with hydroxide or metahydroxide, and the latter with cadmium and iron.

The plate elements themselves are installed in special envelopes, but they are made of steel. An active mass is pressed inside the devices, which makes it possible to increase the resistance of the battery to vibrations. It should be borne in mind that alkaline batteries use a different number of positive and negative electrode elements. Usually one more positive component. Plate elements are installed along the edges of the structure and connected to the battery case.

The main advantages of alkaline batteries:

1. Such devices are easier to tolerate overcharging. The battery can be stored for a long time without operation, and its properties will not be violated.
2. Alkaline devices function better at lower temperatures.
3. This type of battery is characterized by a lower self-discharge compared to acid devices.
4. Harmful fumes in the design are practically absent.
5. Alkaline batteries allow you to accumulate a large capacity per unit mass. As a result, when used as traction batteries, they allow you to give current for a long time.

Cons specific to the alkaline type of devices:

1. Such batteries have a lower voltage than lead-acid ones. As a result, to achieve the required parameter in the design of the device, it is necessary to combine a larger number of cans. This contributes to an increase in the overall dimensions of the battery.
2. The cost of alkaline devices is much higher compared to acid devices.

To date, the alkaline type of battery is produced only for some models of trucks. The main scope of their use is traction batteries, which are installed in warehouse equipment, loaders. The use of alkaline devices on passenger vehicles is not yet advisable.

The Nesh24 channel spoke about the features of servicing this type of battery.

Li-ion batteries

This type of device is considered promising in terms of an auxiliary current source. They use lithium ions as carriers. The material of the electrode elements itself can change with the improvement of this technology. Initially, lithium metal was used for this, but over time it was replaced by graphite as a result of increased explosiveness. As positive elements on older batteries, lithium oxides with the addition of cobalt or manganese are used.

Today, instead of this composition, lithium-ferro-phosphate alloys are used. This is due to their lower cost and reduced toxicity. Such compositions are easier to process.

The main advantages of this type of battery:

1. High specific electrical capacity per unit mass of the device.
2. The voltage of a single component is significantly higher than traditional lead-acid batteries. This parameter is 4 volts for each bank. Classic batteries have 2 V.
3. Reduced degree of self-discharge.

The disadvantages inherent in lithium-ion batteries do not allow them to be massively installed on vehicles:

1. Such batteries are sensitive to operation at low temperatures. When it's cold outside, the current in the battery that it gives out decreases.
2. A small number of charge-discharge cycles of about five hundred.
3. Device aging. If stored for a long time, the battery life decreases as a result of a decrease in the capacity of the device. In two years, this figure may decrease by 20%.
4. Li-ion devices are more sensitive to deep discharge.
5. Such batteries cannot boast of high power. This figure is too low for the device to be used as a starter.

Igor Tsvetkov provided a video that describes in detail the procedure for the production of lithium-ion batteries.

Depending on the technological version

In this regard, devices are divided into:

• unattended;
• low-maintenance;
• serviced.

Unattended

This type of battery appeared on modern cars back in the 80s of the last century. These batteries are considered the most expensive, their design does not provide holes for adding an electrolyte solution. They are characterized by the presence of a high starting current, and the service life is approximately 20-30% higher. For high-quality operation, maintenance-free batteries need a stable voltage in the on-board network. Such devices do not take long attempts to start the engine when there are malfunctions in the ignition or power systems.

Low-maintenance

Have access to every bank. For effective functioning, occasionally control of the volume and density of the working solution is required. In practice, this type of battery demonstrates good performance, although from a technical point of view they are outdated.

serviced

It is considered one of the cheapest types of devices. This type of battery needs frequent diagnostics and control of the working fluid level. Due to technical features, the electrolyte in them evaporates quickly. The main disadvantage is the destruction of the bituminous mastic, which is used to fix the hull. As a result, the design loses its tightness, the concentration of acid vapors in the engine compartment increases, which leads to the oxidation of the terminal clamps.

User Batteryman spoke in detail about the nuances of maintenance of car batteries.

Battery specifications

When buying, you should look at the following technical characteristics of car batteries:

• capacity;
• electromotive force;
• cold scroll current;
• internal resistance and voltage;
• polarity;
• degree of charge;
• design features;
• period of operation and storage;
• battery self-discharge.

Capacity

This parameter makes it possible to estimate the amount of electricity that the battery gives off when discharged to a minimum value. The value is measured in ampere-hours. It is possible to determine the nominal capacitance indicator using a special technology. The battery is discharged until the voltage reaches 10.5 volts, and the discharge occurs with a current that is 4% of the declared parameter. The procedure is performed for twenty hours, and the temperature of the working fluid during its implementation should be in the range of 18-27 degrees.

If the battery capacity is 50 Ah, then a load with a current of 2 amperes is connected to its terminals. This may be a 24 watt lamp for use on a 12 volt network. The device is discharged to 10.5 volts. The total time to complete the task with an ideal battery condition will be about 25 hours. In the course of use, the capacity indicator always decreases and the end of operation can be considered the moment when this parameter is 40% of the declared one.

To accurately determine the working value, you will need a load fork, which includes:

• resistance;
• voltmeter;
• contact elements;
• handle;
• body of the device.

The terminals of the device are connected to the terminals of the battery, then it is necessary to detect the time when the voltage drops to 6 volts. If the battery is working perfectly, then this parameter will be at least three minutes. The temperature of the working fluid should be about 25 degrees.

User Yuri Krym spoke in detail about measuring this parameter at home.

The battery capacity value depends on several characteristics:

• the number of plates and the type of structure in which they are located;
• liquid temperature value;
• the magnitude of the discharge current, as well as the discharge mode;
• degree of deterioration of the device.

Capacity is the only parameter that allows you to characterize the condition of the battery as much as possible. To increase the service life in acid batteries, you should use the minimum part of the total value before charging the device. If a deep discharge occurs, the battery life will be significantly reduced.

Electromotive force

This characteristic determines the magnitude of the voltage at the terminals of the device without the influence of external loads, in the absence of leakage. The operating parameter is measured using a tester, which can be used as a multimeter or voltmeter. The electromotive force is affected by two characteristics - the density of the working composition, as well as the temperature of the liquid. The larger the first value, the higher the EMF parameter.

With a battery temperature of 18 degrees and a density value of 1.27 g per cm3, the electromotive force will be 2.12 volts for one can. Accordingly, if the battery consists of six cells, then the total value will be 12.7 volts. By the parameter of the electromotive force, it will not be possible to accurately determine the state of the battery. This value allows you to recognize critical problems in the operation of the device, for example, the shorting of the plates.

Cold crank current

This value is often referred to as the starting value. The parameter is marked on the battery case next to the capacity indicator. To determine the parameter of cold scrolling, the battery must be cooled to a temperature of -18 degrees. Then it is discharged with starting current for thirty seconds. In accordance with GOST, this value should be at least 8.4 volts. After two and a half minutes of discharge, this parameter can drop to a level of at least 6 volts.

Internal resistance and voltage

This value includes the parameters:

• plate elements;
• working fluid solution;
• separator devices;
• fasteners, etc.

The value of internal resistance decreases with an increase in the battery capacity indicator. This parameter increases as the temperature drops, as well as the charge of the device. With regular use of the car, the battery is not fully charged by approximately 15-20%, so experts recommend periodically recharging it. This is due to the operation of the generator set. This unit can generate no more than 14.5 volts, but the device allows you to give out the necessary charge in the case when the crankshaft speed is 2 thousand per minute.

Accordingly, the recharging procedure is optimally performed when the car is accelerating or when the car is moving at high speed on the highway. In this mode of operation, full recovery of capacity is possible only when operating for twelve hours. The voltage value that the generator unit produces cannot be increased, since this will lead to the start of the electrolysis process and the evaporation of the liquid.

User Misha343 talked about the practical calculation of the internal resistance of a car battery.

Polarity

This characteristic determines the location of the battery in the engine compartment of the machine. On sale you can find batteries with direct and reverse polarity. It's easy to tell them apart. By turning the device with the terminals towards you, in a battery with direct polarity, the negative terminal is on the right, and the positive terminal is on the left. If the characteristic is reversed, then it will be vice versa.

Russian manufacturers produce batteries with direct polarity, while foreign manufacturers produce batteries with reverse polarity.

Directly can have different standards:

1. European Type 1. The diameter of the positive terminal is 1.95 cm and the negative terminal is 1.79 cm.
2. Asian standard 3. The positive contact is 1.27 cm in diameter and the negative contact is 1.11 cm.

Degree of charge

This technical parameter is affected by various characteristics, so it will be problematic to accurately determine its value. Only multifunctional charging equipment equipped with sophisticated electronics will allow you to find out the degree of charge. But to use the battery, it is enough to know the estimated values. The operating parameter can be determined from the voltage value, as well as the density of the solution. The first characteristic for a charged battery with a liquid electrolyte is approximately 12.7 volts, and for helium devices - in the range of 13-13.4 V.

Table of the relationship of the degree of charge with other battery parameters

Design features

Most modern devices for passenger vehicles weigh about 14-20 kilograms. Almost always, the manufacturer indicates the exact weight on the label with other battery properties and parameters. In the case of sizes, the situation is different. On sale you can find batteries made in various designs.

But almost all types of devices belong to one of these sizes:

1. European. Devices made in such a case have a height of 19 cm. Terminal leads are installed in the recesses of the structure.
2. Asiatic. In such batteries, the case height can be from 22 to 25 cm. The terminal clamps protrude beyond the battery design itself.
3. American. In such devices, the contact outputs are located on the side. But it is problematic to find these batteries in the Russian market.

In terms of technological design, all batteries can be divided into three types, which are mentioned above:

• unattended;
• serviced;
• low-maintenance.

Service life and storage

If the battery is not in use, its storage life will be short. In a fully discharged state and without electrolyte, the device can lie for up to two years. But the warranty storage life of the battery will be only one year. If the basic rules of use are observed, the total service life will increase by four years on average. With proper and timely maintenance, the battery life can be up to eight years.

The Batteryman user spoke in detail about the battery life and the nuances that affect its reduction.

Battery self-discharge

This indicator represents the process of reducing the value of the capacity of the device while it is idle. The procedure occurs as a result of the appearance of redox processes on electrode elements of different polarity. But the negative part of the device suffers more, due to the interaction of lead from the plates with sulfuric acid from the working solution. This process results in the release of hydrogen. The degree of lead dissolution increases with an increase in the density parameter of the working electrolyte solution.

In addition, the self-discharge procedure can be provoked by impurities formed on the surface of the battery. The working solution, water and other liquids contribute to the creation of unfavorable conditions for the functioning of the battery, in particular, its discharge. This is due to the formation of a conductive film between the contact terminals of the battery.

Features of the self-discharge procedure that the car owner needs to know:

1. When the temperature drops, this parameter decreases, and if it is 0 degrees, then it almost stops. Therefore storage of accumulators in rooms where it is hot is not recommended. The battery must be charged.
2. The self-discharge procedure becomes active when the battery is nearing the end of its useful life. This is facilitated by recharging the device with a deep discharge.
3. This parameter can be reduced if pure sulfuric acid with distillate is poured into the battery in time. These substances will make an electrolyte.
4. The self-discharge procedure occurs more actively for 24 hours after the last recharge of the battery.
5. If the battery loses 1% capacity per day, this is considered normal.

The NIk86 auto-building channel spoke in detail about the reasons for the self-discharge of devices.

Safety precautions for the operation and maintenance of batteries

To ensure long-term operation of the device, the following nuances of use must be taken into account:

1. The device must be securely fixed in the engine compartment of the machine.
2. If the density parameter of the working fluid is measured and replaced, it is necessary to use protective equipment. We are talking about glasses and rubber gloves. If the electrolyte gets on the skin, the affected area must be treated with a solution of water and baking soda.
3. It is not allowed to short the battery terminals with each other. This can lead to failure of electrical equipment and even battery explosion.
4. Before recharging the device, it is necessary to unscrew the plugs from the cans. This is necessary when the battery is categorized as serviceable.
5. Do not store the battery if it is discharged. This will lead to rapid sulfation of the electrode elements, resulting in a decrease in the capacity of the device.
6. When connecting, be sure to observe the polarity. If the battery is charged, then its energy reserve is high. Accordingly, if the terminals are connected incorrectly, battery failure may occur.
7. Self-opening of the body of the device is not allowed. Contact with the electrolyte solution on the skin will cause a chemical burn.

Video "Nuances of battery maintenance"

The Accumulator user spoke in detail about the features of the prevention of car batteries at home.

The car battery is a very important element, despite the simplicity of the design, it is fraught with several obscure abbreviations, such as capacity, and of course the starting current. I have already written about some, I will write about some more, but today we will talk about the “starting indicators” of the battery - why it is so important and what they should be. Not everyone knows about this parameter and often, when choosing a new battery, they initially make a big mistake! And it leads to the fact that the battery quickly fails, and cannot start your car in winter ...

To start the definition

Battery starting current (sometimes called starter) - this is the maximum value of the current strength needed to start the engine, namely to power the starter so that it can turn the flywheel with the pistons attached to it. This process is complicated, because the pistons compress the fuel (in 9 - 13 atmospheres), which enters the chambers. Winter starting is even more difficult, because the oil thickens and the starter must overcome not only compression, but also the lack of proper cylinder lubrication.

What is the main function of a car battery? Of course, the accumulation and subsequent start of the engine, it seems like the structure of many models is the same, but the characteristics are not the same. No, of course, the charged model will have approximately 12.7V, but the current strength and capacity will be different.

A few words about the structure and properties

Batteries were created specifically to recharge and start the car, that is, they are very practical in terms of operation. An ordinary battery discharged very quickly, and it was expensive to change it, then batteries were invented.

Through trial and error, batteries have evolved - so a few years after the invention, a very specific model emerged, it was about 100 years ago, which has not changed until now.

Usually these are six compartments with plates of lead (minus) and its oxide (plus), which are filled with a special electrolyte of sulfuric acid. It is this combination that makes the battery work, if you exclude one component, then the work will be disrupted. One disparate battery generates an average of 2.1V, which is extremely small to start the engine, in an average battery, they are combined by connecting in series, usually 6 cans of 2.1V = 12.6 - 12.7V. This voltage is sufficient to energize the starter winding.

A few words about capacity

However, voltage is only one of the components, it is unified, that is, it is the same for all batteries, regardless of capacity.

But here the capacity can differ at times. It is measured in Amperes per hour, or simply Ah. If you bring out a small definition, then this is the ability of the battery to give a certain amount of current for an entire hour. Automotive options start at 40 Ah and go up to 150 Ah. However, the most common on ordinary foreign cars are 55 - 60 Ah. That is - the battery can give 60 amperes for an hour, and then it will be specifically discharged. To be honest, this is a big value, if you multiply 12.7 (voltage) and 60 Ah (capacity), you get 762 watts per hour! You can heat up an electric kettle a couple of times.

We also figured out the capacity, now directly about the starting current.

So what is the starting current?

As I wrote above, starting current is the maximum current that a battery can deliver in a very short period of time. In simple words, to start the engine of an average car, you need about 255 - 270 Amps, a lot! In fact, this is the “starting values”, from the word “start” in relation to the power unit.

If the battery capacity is about 60 Ah, then this exceeds its nominal value by about 4-5 times. True, such a voltage should be given only about 30 seconds, no more.

Often in the southern regions of our country, where the air temperature always remains in the positive zone, this parameter is not even considered! For no reason, we take an average battery, and it will perfectly cope with its duties. After all, the street is warm and liquid oil. But in the northern regions, this indicator is one of the most important, where temperatures are often in an extremely negative zone and it is difficult to start the power unit, the oil looks more like jelly than a fluid liquid. Launching will be extremely difficult.

If to start the engine at “+ 1 + 5” degrees, it will be enough (at once) 200 - 220 Amperes, then to start it already at - 10 - 15 degrees, you need to spend 30% more energy, and this is 260 - 270 Amperes. Now think about how much energy is wasted at -20 - 30 degrees Celsius.

Thus, the lower the temperature in winter, the more important this parameter is, this is a kind of axiom.

What is the starting current?

If you look at different manufacturers, for example, European countries, the USA, Russia or China, then all these batteries will have a different starting current. So, for example, if you compare 55 Ah China and Europe, the difference can be 30 - 40%! But why is that?

It's all about technology:

• The use of purified lead, even in simple acid batteries, will lead to rapid charging and subsequent discharging, respectively, starting values ​​\u200b\u200bwill increase.
• More plates in the same size case.
• More electrolyte.
• Plus plates are more porous, which will allow more charge to accumulate.
• Sealed constructions do not allow the electrolyte to evaporate, which will allow the batteries to always keep the desired level without exposing the plates.

Of course, you can add build quality and the decency of the manufacturer, all this gives better results than competitors. True, such batteries are more expensive.

But at the moment, there are also new technologies - the record holders for the return of inrush current are, their return current can reach up to 1000 Amperes in 30 seconds, about 3-4 times more than conventional acid options. Although these technologies also have their drawbacks, and first of all, this is the price.

It is also worth noting that when starting the engine, the battery voltage drops to about 9 volts, but the current increases many times over - this is a normal process. After starting the engine, the voltage will again take its normal values ​​​​of 12.7 Volts, and the spent charge will be replenished by the car's generator. If the voltage readings during start-up drop to 6 volts (and recover for a very long time), then this can be critical, the starter simply does not have enough energy to start. Most likely the battery is failing.

How are measurements taken?

After the battery is produced, it must be tested to determine the starter showed. Tests in factories are complex, often the batteries are placed in negative temperatures, cooled for several hours, then they try to start the engine.

Usually the test takes place at -18 degrees Celsius and the start-up lasts 30 seconds, if the battery copes, then it can be put into production. If not, they change the design, filling, and carry out tests on a new one.

They measure several times, that is, there are a number of intervals with maximum values, in such intervals they measure the maximum currents that this particular instance is capable of delivering, they are recorded and later applied to the “sides” of the battery. It should be noted that not all batteries are so rigorously checked in the party. However, "troubleshooting" is present, there are checks with a load fork.

In fairness, it is worth noting that earlier in the days of the USSR, batteries were not filled with electrolyte at all in production (there was the concept of a dry charge), you yourself had to fill and charge them! That is, we buy an electrolyte of the required density, and then we charge it for 12-24 hours.

What is the starting current of an average battery and what to do if you buy a large value?

At the moment, there is a division of starting values ​​into gasoline and diesel units. After all, a diesel engine initially needs a larger indicator, because its compression ratio is much higher, it can reach up to 20 atmospheres.

So, averages:

For gasoline options, this is 255 Amperes

For diesel options - at least 300 Amperes

These figures, as stated in the butt, were measured at minus 18 degrees Celsius, which may not be enough when starting in more severe frosts.

But now, with the development of technology, often in stores we can see starter current indicators of 400, 500 and even 600 Amperes! What happens if you take these numbers? Will I burn my starter?

The answer is simple - of course not. Don't sleep! Take it and forget what a cold start is, with such characteristics you will not care about any frost.

As for the starter - with a higher current, it will rotate faster and stronger, which will allow it to make more revolutions, and in turn this contributes to a quick and high-quality start of the engine.

Of course, you need to read the characteristics of your car, but I think a starting value of 450 - 500 AMPS will be enough for all regions of Russia. Again, I’ll make a reservation, I’m now considering ordinary cars, not trucks with large and large engines, often even 600 will not be enough for them.

Classification in the world

As I have already touched on a bit, there are now several main classifications of inrush current values ​​in the world. Which have their own methods of definition and labeling. To begin with, how are they marked:

• German manufacturers stand out here - they mark "DIN"
• In America they put - "SAE"
• In the EU countries (not Germany) put - "EN"
• In Russia, they often write - "starting or starter current"

The operational period of the battery usually does not exceed four years, so sooner or later, car owners face the question of choosing a new battery for the car. But how do you know what type of battery to choose? What characteristics to follow? And where can I find their description? We will tell you about this today.

Battery and its types

There are several main types of rechargeable batteries, which differ in the material from which the electrodes are made and the composition of the electrolyte. Many of you know that there are various nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal hydride, lithium-ion, lead-acid batteries. From this list, only one is used as a starter - lead. This is due to the fact that this type of batteries is endowed with the largest possible margin of electrical capacity, in comparison with others, and is capable of instantly delivering a large current.

But with all this, you have to put up with the fact that their filling is very harmful, because it is lead and acid. To ensure maximum safety of operation of lead-acid batteries, their cases are made of special plastic that is resistant to acid. Today, the material from which the electrodes are made is lead, not in its pure form, of course, but with various additives, on which the further division of batteries into several types depends:

- Traditional, which are also called antimony;

Low antimony;

calcium;

hybrid;

Gel or AGM;

Alkaline;

Traditional or antimony

Batteries of this type in the composition of lead electrodes also contain 5% antimony. They are also called simply classical or traditional. But today, the relevance of these names no longer has a direct meaning, because the content of antimony has decreased significantly. Antimony is added to the alloy in the composition of the electrodes to increase their strength. But this additive also speeds up the electrolysis process, which starts already at around 12 volts. A large amount of gases is released and there is a sensation of boiling water. Due to the evaporation of water in large volumes, the electrolyte changes its concentration to a stronger one, due to which the top of the electrodes is exposed. In order to restore the water balance of the electrolyte, distilled water is added to it.

Batteries with a high content of antimony additives are very easy to maintain. This is due to the fact that monthly it is necessary to check the electrolyte concentration and, if necessary, pour distilled water. In new car models, such batteries are no longer installed, because progress is rapidly striding forward. These batteries are still installed in fixed installations, where unpretentiousness is important and there are no problems with the maintenance of power supplies. Automotive batteries are now made without the addition of antimony or minimize its amount to the maximum.

Low antimony

To avoid strong evaporation of water from the electrolyte, battery plates, as mentioned above, began to be made with minimal antimony additives, the amount of which does not reach 5%. As a result, the frequent need to check the electrolyte for the level of concentration has sunk into oblivion. Self-discharge also decreased during long-term storage of the battery.

This type of battery is one of those that are little or no serviced at all. This is justified by the fact that the inside of the battery does not need to be monitored and maintained. Although in essence such a term as “maintenance free” refers to an unrealized theory, or most likely to cunning marketing operations, they have not yet reached the level at which water from the electrolyte does not boil away at all. It gradually evaporates anyway, although in much smaller volumes than those batteries that are called serviced.

calcium

Manufacturers are still struggling with how to make a completely maintenance-free battery so that the water in it does not evaporate at all. To do this, the antimony in the gratings of the electrode plates was replaced with another, more suitable material. This was calcium. Calcium-type batteries are often marked with the letters "Ca/Ca". This designation tells car owners that the plates of both poles contain calcium.

In addition, silver is sometimes added to the composition of the electrodes in very small quantities. This reduces the resistance inside the battery, which has a good effect on its performance and energy consumption. The calcium in the lead plates did an excellent job of reducing gas emission and water loss, which makes this type an order of magnitude superior to low-antimony batteries. The loss of water during the operation of the battery is so scanty that the need to check the concentration of the electrolyte and its level in the banks has simply become unnecessary.

Thus, calcium-type batteries can rightfully be called maintenance-free. In addition to less water loss, calcium batteries also have a 70% lower self-discharge level compared to previous opponents. This allows these batteries to maintain their performance for a longer period of time. Such batteries are installed in factories for the production of foreign cars of the middle price segment, where the manufacturer boldly guarantees the stability and quality of electrical equipment.

But when buying a battery of this type, be aware that it requires more careful care than a low antimony one. But with proper maintenance, you will have a reliable and stable high quality power supply.

hybrid

The battery data type is marked as "Ca +". Hybrid batteries have electrode plates that are created using various technologies: positive electrodes are low in antimony, and negative ones are already calcium. This technology made it possible to combine the potentiating sides of both types in one battery. Water in hybrid batteries is consumed 50% slower than low antimony, but still faster than calcium batteries. But hybrids are much more resistant to overcharging. According to their characteristics, they rightfully occupy a niche between the two previous representatives.

Gel or AGM

Banks of gel batteries are filled with electrolyte not in a liquid state that we understand, but in a gel-like, fixed state, from where the name of this type came from. Due to this state of the electrolyte, these batteries are not afraid of slopes, because the gel is not as liquid as the liquid. Although this is again a professional "tempting" marketing ploy, and it is better not to turn over gel-filled batteries. Although manufacturers write that such batteries can be operated in any convenient position.

The positive aspects of AGM batteries do not end with excellent vibration resistance. They also self-discharge slowly, thanks to which they endure long-term storage without fear of a critical charge reduction. They should be stored in a fully charged state.

The current supplied by the battery, depending on the charge, is unchanged even until it is completely discharged. They are also not afraid of overdischarging, they completely restore their previous capacity even after recharging. But with the charge of gel-type batteries, the situation is not as smooth as with the discharge. These batteries cannot be overcharged. They must be charged at very low current. For this, even chargers are produced that are specially adapted for charging gel batteries.

Although the market is rich in universal chargers, which, according to the plan, should charge any type of battery. It is impossible to answer unambiguously how much this is all really true, because manufacturers are different and it is better to pay attention to those that are already well established in the market and have proven themselves well.

The negative side of gel batteries is their "fear" of extremely low temperatures. The lower the ambient temperature, the lower the conductivity of the gel electrolyte becomes. If the operating conditions are favorable, such batteries can last for ten years.

alkaline

Did you know that the electrolyte in batteries can have not only an acidic, but also an alkaline component? And there are many varieties of such batteries, but we will take into consideration only those that are used in cars.

But car alkaline batteries come in only two types: nickel-cadmium And nickel-iron. Batteries of the first type have positive electrodes coated with nickel hydroxide NiO(OH), and negative electrodes with iron with an admixture of cadmium. In the second type of battery, the positive electrodes are coated identically to those found in a nickel-cadmium battery, that is, nickel hydroxide. But in the negative electrode there are already differences, here it is made of pure, without impurities, iron. The alkaline electrolyte in both types of batteries is a solution of caustic potassium.

This and the last type of batteries in our list is considered the most promising today. The composition of the electrolyte of this type of battery includes lithium ions. It’s impossible to say for sure what material the electrode plates are made of, because manufacturing technology is constantly moving forward. However, we know that they were originally produced from lithium metal, but due to their explosive nature, such electrodes were no longer used. They were replaced by graphite plates. For positively charged electrodes, lithium oxide with the addition of cobalt or manganese was used. But at the present time, they are being replaced by lithium-ferro-phosphate ones, because the new material is much less toxic, more accessible and environmentally friendly. Such plates can be safely disposed of.

Work is constantly underway to improve the existing types of batteries, and it is continuous. Research and testing centers are working tirelessly to find more power-hungry power supplies with compact dimensions. For regions with extreme winters, the invention of batteries resistant to severe frosts would be useful, then the problem with engine failure would be solved. It is also important to move towards environmental friendliness. After all, today they have not yet learned how to produce completely environmentally friendly batteries.

It is impossible for the time being to do without the addition of toxic elements, such as, for example, lead, alkali, sulfuric acid. But with traditional batteries, the future is likely closed. Gel batteries are an intermediate evolutionary stage. The battery of the future is seen without filling with liquid, of arbitrary shape, as well as with many other parameters that will save car owners from worrying about whether the electrolyte has spilled out, and whether the battery will fail. The driver must enjoy the ride.

Specifications: weight, current, capacity, voltage

The most important indicators of the quality of batteries are: voltage, weight, capacity, dimensions, nominal depth of discharge, service life, efficiency, operating temperature range, allowable charge and discharge current. Also consider the fact that the specifications indicated by the manufacturer are valid for temperatures of 20-25 degrees Celsius. With deviations from these numbers, they change and often not for the better.

The voltage and capacity values ​​are often used in the name of the battery model. So, for example, the RA12200DG battery. The battery voltage is 12 Volts, its capacity is 200 Ah, gel electrolyte, deep discharge. This battery produces energy of 2.4 kW, based on the formula 12 x 200 \u003d 2400 Wh when discharged with current for ten hours at 10% of the total capacity. With deviations towards higher current and rapid discharge, the capacity of such a battery decreases. At lower currents, on the contrary, it often increases. You need to look at the discharge characteristics of certain batteries that interest you. Sometimes manufacturers in the title indicate too ideal battery capacity, which is possible only in utopian conditions. Such amateurs, for example, Haze, whose capacity in reality is an order of magnitude lower than the declared one, namely by 10-20 points, and this is significant, you must agree.

Battery capacity

The amount of energy that a battery can store in itself is called its capacity. It is measured in ampere-hours A / h. For example, one battery with a capacity of 100 amp-hours can supply a current with a force of 1 ampere for 100 hours, or a current of 5 amperes for 20 hours, and so on. Although the battery capacity decreases if the discharge current increases. On the market you can buy batteries with a capacity of 1 to 2000 Ah.

Life time

In order to extend the life of a lead-acid battery, it is best to use only a small portion of its capacity before recharging. Each process that is accompanied by the discharge and recharging of the battery is called a charging cycle, and it is not necessary to completely discharge the battery. Let's say you discharged the battery by a quarter, and then charged it again, then it had one charging cycle. But the number of cycles will directly depend on the depth of discharge.

If the battery can be discharged by more than half of its nominal capacity without a significant deterioration in its parameters, then such a unit is called "deep discharge". The battery can be damaged if it is recharged more than necessary. The maximum voltage applied to a 12 volt acid battery should not exceed 15 watts. A significant part of photovoltaic batteries have a soft load characteristic, therefore, with an increase in voltage, the charging current decreases significantly. For example, for solar panels, you always need to use a certain charge controller. Also, its use is necessary for wind power plants and micro hydroelectric power plants.

Voltage

Battery voltage is often the main parameter, following which you can determine how charged the battery is and what condition it is in. This is especially true for batteries in a sealed shell, in which it is physically impossible to measure the electrolyte concentration without damaging them. In order to determine how much, its voltage is measured at the terminals for 4-5 hours in the absence of charging and discharging currents.

The voltage measured while charging or discharging the battery will not say anything about how charged the battery is. The dependence of how charged the battery is on the voltage on it in idle mode is different for different types of batteries. For batteries that are sealed, for example, gel batteries are slightly larger than those types that have a liquid electrolyte in them. For example, an AGM type battery is considered fully charged if the voltage on it is 13 watts, while for acid batteries it is 12.5 watts.

Degree of charge

The extent to which the battery is charged depends on many factors. And only special devices with memory and a microprocessor can accurately determine the battery charge. They monitor the charge and discharge of the battery over several charging cycles. Using this method will give you the most accurate battery readings, but it will also cost you a lot of money. But do not skimp on the use of this method, because you will be able to spend extra money with further maintenance and battery replacement. Using special devices that monitor the operation of batteries by their degree of charge, you will noticeably increase the operating period of your lead-acid battery.

The following two methods, which are simplified, are also successfully used to determine how charged your car's battery is.

Battery voltage

This method is not very accurate, but its application requires only a digital voltmeter, with a sensitivity of up to a hundredth of a volt. Before starting measurements, it will be necessary to disconnect the battery from all consumers of electricity that discharge it and from devices that charge it. Wait at least two hours and start measuring at the battery terminals. A 100% charged gel battery will have a voltage of 13 watts against 12.5 watts in liquid electrolyte batteries. As the battery begins to age, its voltage decreases. Voltage can be measured both on the entire battery and on each bank. To find a faulty one, for example, in a 12-volt battery, you need to divide the total voltage by the number of cans, in this case 6.

Electrolyte density

The next method for checking the battery charge is by the density of the electrolyte. As it has already become clear, it is only suitable for liquid-filled batteries; for gel batteries, for example, it cannot be used, a priori. Also, as in the first method, you must wait at least two hours before starting measurements. Measurements are made with a hydrometer. Important! Before starting the procedure, be sure to protect yourself by wearing gloves and plastic goggles. Keep baking soda and water handy in case electrolyte gets on your skin.

Battery life

It is not entirely correct to determine the operational period in time intervals. Battery life is calculated in charge cycles and depends directly on operating conditions. The greater the depth of discharge of the battery and the longer it is in a discharged state, the more significantly the number of its operating cycles is reduced.

As we have already understood, the concept of the number of charging cycles is absolutely relative, because it depends directly on many factors. In addition, the number of life cycles of one battery will not be the same for another, this concept is not universal. After all, everything again depends on the factors of operation and production technology, which differs from one manufacturer to another. Please note that battery life is measured in charge cycles and time spans are approximate if the battery is used continuously under typical conditions.

Another important point is that the useful battery capacity decreases during the operation of the battery. All characteristics in terms of the number of cycles are determined not until the battery is completely dead, but until it loses 40; from its nominal capacity. For example, if a manufacturer specifies a number of 600 cycles with a charge equal to half its capacity, this means that after 600 identical cycles under ideal conditions, the usable capacity of the battery will be 60% of the factory capacity. And already with this capacity, manufacturers recommend replacing the battery. Lead-acid batteries have a life span of 300 to 3000 cycles, depending on the type and depth of discharge of the battery.

In order to ensure a long service life, the discharge of the battery in a typical cycle should not exceed 30% , and the deep discharge 80% containers. If a lead-acid battery is dead, it needs to be recharged as soon as possible. If such a battery has been in a completely discharged or undercharged state for more than 12 hours, then the consequences that have happened to it may be irreversible and its service life will sharply decrease.

How to determine that the battery is already approaching its limit? Everything is very simple. The internal resistance of the battery rises sharply, which leads to a voltage surge during charging, as a result of which the charging period itself decreases and the battery discharges more quickly. If you start charging a dying battery with a current that is close to the limit, then it will get very hot, much stronger than before.

Maximum charge and discharge currents

The charge and discharge currents of any battery are measured depending on its capacity. As a rule, the maximum charging current for the battery should not exceed more than 0.3C. Exceeding the charge current will lead to a decrease in the operational life of the battery. We recommend that you set the charging current to no more than 0.2C.

self-discharge

Self-discharge, as a phenomenon, is typical for all types of batteries to a lesser or greater extent and consists in the loss of their capacitive characteristics after they are fully charged in the absence of an external energy consumer. In order to conveniently quantify the self-discharge of the battery, it will be convenient to use the value of the lost capacity over a certain period of time, which is expressed as a percentage of the value that is obtained immediately after a full charge. For the time interval, as a rule, an interval is taken, which is equal to one day or one month.

For example, if you take a serviceable NiCD battery, then their allowable self-discharge is 10% per day, after charging is completed. For NiMH batteries - a little more, and for Li-ION it is completely small and is estimated per month. In lead batteries, self-discharge is already calculated in years, because it is much reduced and amounts to 40% per year at a temperature of 20 degrees Celsius and 15% at a temperature of 5 degrees. If the storage temperature is much higher, then self-discharge occurs faster.

For example, at a temperature of 40 degrees, the battery will lose its 40% capacity in 5 months. Note that the battery strongly self-discharges only in the first day after the charge, and after that it subsides significantly. If the battery is subjected to a deep discharge and subsequent charge, then this exacerbates its self-discharge. The self-discharge process gains momentum at elevated temperatures. So, for example, if the ambient temperature rises sharply by 10 degrees, in relation to the usual one, then the self-discharge will double.

The capacity can also be wasted if the separator is damaged, when the crystals stick together, forming a large lump that pierces it. The battery separator is a thin plate that separates positive and negative electrodes. This happens when the battery is not properly maintained or not at all. This can also happen if you use low-quality charging devices or those that do not meet the necessary parameters. If the battery is worn out, then its electrode plates stick together due to their swelling. This leads to accelerated self-discharge. At this stage, the damaged separator can no longer be repaired by charging/discharging.

Marking - find out the charge capacity, current strength and other parameters

exists so that you, as a buyer, can obtain detailed necessary information about all the necessary technical characteristics of the battery you are interested in. It includes: battery type, trademark and production date, weight and compliance with GOST. The number of combined batteries into a single battery is also indicated, as a rule, there should be 3 or 6 of them. The letters "St" tell you that you are watching an old battery in front of you. Depending on the material of manufacture of the monoblock case, the corresponding letter is indicated:

E– ebonite;

P- asphalt-pebble plastic;

T- thermoplastic.

The material from which the separators are made is also important. If the marking contains a capital letter "R", then this is a mipora, a letter "M" point to miplast, and "WITH"- It's fiberglass.

Voltage, as such, is not indicated on the battery label, it is simply not necessary, because it is a standard value that can be measured with a conventional load plug. Also pay attention to the presence of the letter "Z", if any. If present, this indicates a flooded type battery that is fully charged. If this letter is absent, then the battery is dry-charged.