310 | Section 8 Electrical System ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- Monarch SE 2004
The hydrometer is calibrated at 80° F. Temperature affects the hydrometer
readings. The higher the electrolyte temperature, the higher the specific gravity
reading. The lower the temperature, the lower the specific gravity reading. Add
or subtract four points for each 10° variance from the 80° F chart. Readings
between cells should not vary more than 50 points.
If one cell in a particular battery bank being tested is at a 50% state of
charge while the others are indicating a full charge, charge only that battery
to see if the low cell will come up. At the same time, do not over charge the
“healthy” cells.
If the low cell does not come up after charging, this battery can damage
the rest of the battery bank and should be replaced. An accurate digital volt
meter + - .5% will also give an indicator of the battery’s state of charge.
Another test that can be performed is to place a specific load on the battery
for a predetermined length of time equal to that particular battery’s rating. This
machine is usually an adjustable carbon pile that can vary the load being
applied to the battery(s) while monitoring voltage to see if they will perform
to their specific rated capacities.
NOTE: See the Temperature Compensation Chart. Liquid
levels should be even between the cells of the battery being
tested as it will affect the accuracy of the test.
WARNING: Sulfuric acid in the batteries can cause severe
injury or death. Sulfuric acid can cause permanent damage
to eyes, burn skin and eat holes in clothing. Always wear
splash-proof safety goggles when working around the
battery. If the battery electrolyte is splashed in the eyes, or
on skin, immediately flush the affected area for 15 minutes
with large quantities of clean water. In case of eye contact,
seek immediate medical aid. Never add acid to a battery
once the battery has been placed in service. Doing so may
result in hazardous splattering of electrolyte.
030815
Temperature Compensation
Chart
To Next Page
Loading...