Many car owners probably had to deal with the problem of incorrect battery operation. It happens that the car stood for only a day, and it becomes impossible to start it after that. However, even prolonged battery charging does not help. Similar symptoms indicate a decrease in electrolyte density. We will talk about what the density in the battery should be, why it falls, and how to raise it to the desired level, in this article.
Electrolyte and its density
An electrolyte is a solution consisting of sulfuric acid and distilled water. These components are contained in approximately equal parts: water - 1 part, sulfuric acid - 1.25 parts. Indicator 1.25 - this is the density of the
car's battery
. Battery performance directly depends on this indicator - the higher it is,
the lower its freezing temperature, and it is in a satisfactory working condition. Knowing what the density in the battery should be, you can judge the real state of your device.
Battery Density Measurement
Before checking the battery density, you should get a special device called a hydrometer. It is a device consisting of several rubber and glass elements.
Because the electrolyte is a dangerous chemical compound, before measuring its density, care must be taken about precautions, namely, work in rubber gloves, avoiding liquid in contact with skin and clothing. It is strictly forbidden to smoke!
Open the neck of the can, insert the tip of the device into it and use a pear to collect a little electrolyte so that the hydrometer float floats freely in the body without touching the bottom, side walls and top. Wait until the fluid in the device calms down, and keeping it at eye level, visually read the readings. Perform this procedure with all banks. If the density difference exceeds 0.01 g per cubic meter. cm, then be sure to add distilled water or put the battery on an equalizing charge. With a decrease in density to 1.24 g per cubic meter. cm or lower, the battery should be recharged.
Additional recommendations
Itβs important to know not only how to check battery density with a hydrometer,
but also the rules for amending the indication of the device in specific temperature conditions. The optimum temperature of the electrolyte for measuring its density is +15 - + 25 Β° C, but if you have to perform this procedure at a higher or lower temperature, then the readings must be corrected.
Electrolyte temperature (Λ) | Correction to hydrometer readings |
- 45 | - 0.04 |
- thirty | - 0.03 |
- fifteen | - 0.02 |
0 | 0 |
+ 15 | 0 |
+ 30 | + 0.01 |
+ 45 | + 0.02 |
+ 60 | + 0.03 |
You should not find out what the density in the battery is after there recently
water was added, or after repeated attempts to start the starter. After completing all the procedures, thoroughly rinse the hydrometer with water.
How to increase the density in the battery?
The easiest way to maintain the required level of electrolyte in the battery is topping up with distilled water. However, most car owners forget or do not know that it is periodically necessary to measure the density of the battery, because water boils over time, and with it the electrolyte, which leads to a decrease in density, sometimes to a critical point. When the battery is completely
refuses to work, then the burning question immediately arises: "How to increase the density in the battery?"
Using the instructions below, you can independently extend the life of the battery. However, remember that this procedure requires special attention and accuracy.
Precautionary measures
β’ Use extreme caution when handling electrolyte: carry out all operations with safety glasses and rubber gloves.
β’ When diluting the electrolyte yourself, it is imperative to add acid to the water, but not vice versa! These fluids have different densities and serious burns can result from errors.
β’ It is forbidden to turn the battery upside down, as as a result, the active surface of the plates may crumble and cause a short circuit.
β’ Prepare containers in advance for draining the old electrolyte and preparing a new mixture.
β’ First check the plastic that you will use to seal the holes for electrolyte resistance.
β’ Remember that a charged battery will have a higher density.
Preparatory stage
In order to increase the density of the electrolyte battery, you will need:
β’ hydrometer;
β’ measured capacity;
β’ pear enema;
β’ soldering iron;
β’ drill;
β’ electrolyte;
β’ battery acid;
β’ distilled water.
How to increase the density of the electrolyte in the battery: detailed instructions
We measure electrolyte density in each bank. Remembering what should be
density in the battery, we compare our real indicators. So, if the density is 1.25-1.28, and the range of values ββin each bank does not exceed 0.01, then the battery is fully functional, and it does not require any procedures. If the indicators vary at the level of 1.18-1.20, then the only option would be topping up the electrolyte with a density of 1.27.
β’ Using a pear enema, pump out the maximum amount of old electrolyte from one can and measure its volume.
β’ Add fresh solution in an amount equal to half of the pumped out.
β’ Actively but gently shake the battery so that the liquids mix.
β’ Measure density. If the value is not what the density should be in the battery, add Β½ more electrolyte from the remaining amount. The operation should be repeated until you get the required indicators.
β’ Top up with distilled water.
What to do at a critical density level
If the density index is below 1.18, then this problem cannot be solved by adding electrolyte. In this case, battery acid having a substantially higher density will be required. This process is carried out similarly to the electrolyte addition scheme. If it is not possible to achieve the desired results on one occasion, repeat the procedure as many times as necessary.
If the battery density is even lower than 1.18, then you must resort to the procedure for a complete replacement of the electrolyte. To do this, you must immediately pump out with a pear the maximum amount of solution. Then, tightly close the vents of the plugs on the battery banks. Place the battery on its side and alternately drill 3-3.5 mm holes in the bottom of each can. Before making another hole, drain the remaining electrolyte from the previous one.
Next, thoroughly rinse the battery with distilled water. After that, seal the drilled holes with acid-resistant plastic (for example, plugs from an unnecessary battery can be used for this).
Having done all the preparatory procedures, you can proceed with the filling of fresh electrolyte. In this case, it is recommended to use a solution prepared independently, the density of which will be slightly higher than that provided for your climatic zone. It should be borne in mind that even a complete replacement of the electrolyte in the old battery will not be able to provide it with the same service life as the new battery.
Tip: if you want the battery to serve you as long as possible, do not forget to charge it on time and check its density periodically.