Storage Batteries (Mod. 2 pt4) 1 of 2

Storage Battery Construction

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Caption: : This figure shows a storage battery containing six 2-volt cells. The total voltage of the battery is 12 V.

The individual cells of a storage battery are housed in an acid-proof plastic or hard-rubber case to prevent electrolyte from leaking through the case. The case contains separate molded sections that hold the cells. Each cell section is ribbed at the bottom so that the plates rest evenly. A cover made of acid-proof material is sealed in place at the top of the battery.

Detailed Storage Battery Anatomy

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This figure shows the parts of a storage battery in more detail. Figure 15A shows one cell; Figure B shows an entire battery containing six cells. The individual cell sections, called sediment chambers, provide space for the collection of material shed or dropped from the plates. Without the sediment chambers, the material would collect between the cell plates, short the plates together, and destroy the chemical action of the battery.

Caption: : neat

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Battery Straps and Cables

Electrical equipment is usually connected to a battery by straps or cables. A strap is made of wires braided or woven together; a cable is made of many strands of wire twisted together. Cables are usually covered with insulation. Generally, straps and cables are covered by natural or synthetic rubber. Sometimes the rubber is wrapped in one or two layers of braided cotton or silk. To connect a standard battery to a piece of equipment, an insulated cable is connected from the positive battery terminal to the machine circuit. A ground strap is connected from the negative battery terminal to the ground or frame of the machine. A ground strap is usually not insulated.

Caption: : Shown here is a ground strap and two types of insulated battery cables.

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Maintaining Storage Batteries

Caption: : A poorly maintained battery like this one will soon fail completely. All the problems indicated here could have been avoided by proper maintenance.

Storage batteries require maintenance to keep them in good condition. Battery terminals, cables, and cable clamps must be kept as clean as possible. Water must sometimes be added to the electrolyte. Also, batteries must be inspected for damage. Not only will a damaged battery fail to work, but it could also leak electrolyte or even explode under certain conditions. Figure 18 shows some of the areas to be checked on a storage battery.