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Charge, or
Re-Charge
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The reaction that occurs in discharging the cell can be reversed,
and it can be restored to its former charged condition by sending direct
current through it in an opposite direction to the current flow on
discharge. The active materials are restored to their respective
conditions, and the electrolyte again becomes a more concentrated sulfuric
acid solution. Cell voltage rises as the two plates become increasingly
different in composition and the specific gravity of the electrolyte
increases. As an operating guide, to obtain the best performance and life from
an R-E storage battery, the depth of discharge must not exceed 80% of the
battery’s rated capacity in ampere hours. It should be charged after each
cycle or whenever the specific gravity of the electrolyte falls below
1.230. It is very important that proper ventilation be provided during
charging to make certain that (1) the hydrogen gas given off toward the end
of the charging process is dissipated, and (2) that individual cell
electrolyte temperatures during normal operations do not exceed 115° F.
POOR CHARGING PRACTICES
Poor charging practice is responsible
for shortening the life of a battery more than any other cause. Charging
may be accomplished by various methods, but the objective of driving
current through the battery in the opposite direction of discharge remains
the same. The most important aspect of charging is matching the charger to
the battery application. When choosing a charger, it is necessary to
consider the type of battery, the way in which the battery will be
discharged, the time available for charge, the temperature extremes the
battery will experience, and the number of cells in the battery (output
voltage). It is important to consult the battery manufacturer at the time
of purchase to determine the appropriate charging method.
In general, lead-acid batteries may be recharged at any rate that
does not produce excessive gassing, overcharge, or high temperatures.
Discharged batteries may be recharged at a high current initially. However,
once the battery approaches its full charge the current must be decreased
to reduce gassing and excessive overcharging.
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Last Updated: Monday, December 03, 2007 - 6:02 AM Eastern Time.
 
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