Fig. 323 Exide chloride accumulator cell with open glass jar, and Fig. 324 Exide cell with open glass jar
1. The Exide cellis shown in Fig. 326. It is assembled similar to Exide starting and lighting batteries, except that the plates are considerably thicker, wood and rubber separators are used, and the terminal posts are shaped to provide for bolted instead of burned-on connection. The method of sealing and unsealing the cells is the same as in Exide starting and lighting batteries.
All instructions already given for glass for cells apply to rubber jar cells except for a few differences in assembling and disassembling.
Care should be taken to keep the water level at least 1/2 inch above plates at all times as the evaporation is very rapid in rubber jar cells.
The temperature should be watched on charging to prevent overheating. Never allow temperature to go above 110° F.
Unlike the glass jar cells the sediment space in the rubber jar is not sufficient to take care of all the active material in the positive plates. On repairs, therefore, always clean out the sediment and prevent premature short circuits.
Fig. 325 Manchester positive plates, and Fig. 326 Exide cell with sealed rubber jar
Jars.Westinghouse Farm Lighting Battery jars are made of glass, with a 5/16 inch wall. The jars are pressed with the supporting ribs for the elements an integral part from a mass of molten glass. A heavy flange is pressed around the upper edge to strengthen the jar.
Top Construction.A sealed-in cover is used similar to that used in starting and lighting batteries. The opening around the post hole is sealed with compound.
Plates.Pasted plates are used. The positives are 1/4 inch thick, and the negatives 3/16 inch. Posts are 13/16 inch in diameter.
Separators.A combination of wood and perforated rubber sheets is used.
Fig. 327 Westinghouse farm lighting cell
It is preferable that the temperature never exceed 100 deg. Fahrenheit nor fall below 10 deg. in the place where the battery is set up. If the temperature is liable to drop below 10 degrees the battery should be kept in a fully charged condition.
1. Remove all excelsior and the other packing material from the top of the cells. Take cells out carefully and set on the floor. Do not drop or handle roughly. Be sure to remove the lead top connectors from each compartment.
2. Cells should be placed 1/4 inch apart. Also, cells should be placed alternately so that positive post of one cell is adjacent to negative post of the next cell. Positive post has "V" shape shoulder and the negative post has a square shoulder.
3. Grease all posts, straps and nuts with vaseline.
4. Connect positive posts of each cell to negative post of adjacent cell, using top connectors furnished. Top connectors are made so as to fit when connection is made between positive post of one cell and negative post of next cell. Use long connector between end cells of upper and lower shelves.
5. With all connections between cells in position, join the remaining positive post with a connection marked "Positive" leading from the electric generator. Do likewise with the remaining negative post.
6. If liquid level in any cell is 1 inch or more below the "Liquid Line" on side of glass jar, some liquid has been spilled and must be replaced. This should be done by an experienced person.
7. Immediately after installation operate electric generator and charge battery until gas bubbles rise freely through the liquid in all cells. A reading with the hydrometer syringe which is furnished with the battery should be taken, When the hydrometer float reads between 1.240 and 1.250, the battery is fully charged.
8. The time required to complete the charging operation mentioned above may vary from one to several hours, depending upon the length of time the battery has been in transit. During the charge the temperature of the cells should not be permitted to rise above 110 deg. Fahrenheit. If this condition occurs discontinue the charge or decrease the charge rate until cells have cooled off.
9. When charge is complete replace vent plugs.
The size of the battery furnished with complete farm lighting units vary greatly. Sometimes the battery size is varied with the size of the engine and generator, while again the same size of battery may be used for several sizes of engines and generators. In making replacements, while it is always necessary to retain the same number of cells, it is not necessary to retain the same size of cells.
Usually increasing the cell size increases the convenience to the owner and prolongs the life of the battery to an amount which warrants the higher cost.
With a larger battery, danger of injury through overcharging is lessened, the load on the battery is more easily carried and the engine and generator operate less frequently.
In order to give an idea of various battery capacities, below is a table showing the number of 32 volt, 25-watt lamps which may be lighted for various lengths of time from sixteen cells. The number of hours shows the length of time that the lamps will operate.
Note:—Based on 32-Volt 25-Watt Lamps.
For example — The table shows opposite G-7 that, with the battery fully charged, twenty-two lamps may be lighted for three hours, fourteen lamps for five hours and ten lamps for eight hours, by a sixteen cell G-7 battery, without operating the engine and generator.
Motors for operating various household and farm appliances are usually rated either in horsepower or watts. The following table will give a comparison between horse-power and watts as well as the number of 25-watt lamps to which these different sizes of motors and appliances correspond.
From table B it will be seen, for example, that a one horsepower motor draws from the battery 373 watts or the same power as do fifteen 25-watt lamps. Then referring to table A, it will be found that a G-11 battery could operate 15 lamps or this motor alone for 8 hours.
Due to the fact that a motor or electric appliance may become overloaded and therefore actually use many more watts than the name plate indicates, it is not advisable to operate any motor of over 1/4 H. P. or even an appliance of over 186 watts on the G-13 or smaller sizes unless the engine and generator are running.
It is safe, however, to operate motors or other appliances up to 375 watts on the G-15 or G-17 batteries without operating the engine and generator.
Fig. 328 Willard Farm Lighting Cell
The Willard Storage Battery Co. manufactures farm lighting batteries which use sealed glass jars, or sealed rubber jars. Those using the sealed glass jars include types PH and PA. The sealed rubber jar batteries include types EM, EEW, IPR, SMW, and SEW. Both types of batteries are shipped fully charged and filled with electrolyte, and also dry, without electrolyte. The following instructions cover the installation and preparation for service of these batteries.
Each sixteen cell set of batteries is packed in two shipping crates.
One crate, which is stenciled "No. 1" contains:
The other crate which is stenciled "No. 2" contains: 8 Cells
(NOTE:--If the batteries are re-shipped by the manufacturer or distributor, care must be exercised to see that they are sent out in sets.)
Remove the boards from the tops of the shipping crates and the excelsior which is above the cells.
To straighten the long top connector, grasp the strap firmly with the left hand close to the pillar post and raise the outer end of the strap until it is in an upright position. Do not make a short bend near the pillar post. Lift the cells from the case by grasping the glass jars. Do not attempt to lift them by means of the top connectors.
Clean the outside of the cells by wiping with a damp cloth.
Inspect each cell to see if the level of the electrolyte is at the proper height. This is indicated on the jar by a line marked LIQUID LINE.
If the electrolyte is simply a little low and there is no evidence of any having been spilled (examine packing material for discoloration) add distilled or clean rain water to bring the level to the proper height.
If the liquid does not cover the plates and the packing material is discolored, it indicates that some or all of the electrolyte has been lost from the cell either on account of a cracked jar or overturning of the battery.
If only a small quantity of electrolyte is lost through spilling, the cell should be filled to the proper height with electrolyte of the same specific gravity as in the other cells. This cell should then be charged until the gravity has ceased rising. If all the electrolyte is lost write to the Willard Storage Battery Co., Cleveland, Ohio, for instructions.
Each cell of the type PH battery is a complete unit, sealed in a glass jar. The cells are to be placed side by side on the battery rack so that the positive terminal of one cell (long connecting strap) can be connected to the negative terminal (short strap) of the adjacent cell.
Join the positive terminal of one cell to the negative terminal of the adjacent cell and continue this procedure until all the cells are connected together. This will leave one positive and one negative terminal of the battery to be connected respectively to the positive and negative wires from the switchboard. The bend in the top connector should be made about one inch above the pillar post to eliminate the danger of breakage at the post.
In tightening the bolts do not use excessive force, as there is liability of stripping the threads.
Give the battery a freshening charge before it is put in service. Type PH cells have a gravity of 1.250 when fully charged, and 1.185 when discharged.
Each sixteen cell set of Batteries consists of:
16 Glass Jars.16 Positive Groups.16 Negative Groups.16 Covers.16 Vent Plugs.32 Lead Collars.32 Lead Keys.32 Soft Rubber Washers.32 Hard Rubber Rods.64 Hard Rubber Nuts.18 Bolt Connectors.Wood Insulators (the quantity depends upon the size of the cells).Sealing Compound.Hydrometer.Instruction Books.Electrolyte is not supplied with batteries shipped in a knockdown condition.Examine all packing material carefully and check the parts with the above list.
16 Glass Jars.
16 Positive Groups.
16 Negative Groups.
16 Covers.
16 Vent Plugs.
32 Lead Collars.
32 Lead Keys.
32 Soft Rubber Washers.
32 Hard Rubber Rods.
64 Hard Rubber Nuts.
18 Bolt Connectors.
Wood Insulators (the quantity depends upon the size of the cells).
Sealing Compound.
Hydrometer.
Instruction Books.
Electrolyte is not supplied with batteries shipped in a knockdown condition.
Examine all packing material carefully and check the parts with the above list.
Wash the glass jars and wipe them dry.
Wash the covers and scrub around the under edge to remove all dust. After they are thoroughly dry place them upside down on a bench.
Melt the sealing compound and pour it around the outer edge to make a fillet in the groove.
Place the plates of a positive group between the plates of a negative group and lay the element thus formed on its edge, as shown in Fig. 329.
Fig. 329 Inserting Separators
Fig. 330 and Fig. 331 Fastening Cover to Posts
Next insert a wood separator between each of the positive and negative plates.
Next insert the hard rubber rods through the holes in the lugs of the end negative plates, and screw on the nuts. Do not screw the nuts so tight as to make the plates bulge out at the center. The rod should project the same amount on each side of the element.
Place the element in a vertical position.
The cover can now be placed over the posts. Slip a rubber washer and a lead collar over each post. The two key holes in the lead collar are unequal in size. The collar must be placed over the post so that the end which measures 3/16 inch from the bottom of the holes to the end of the collar will be next to the rubber washer. Dip the lead key in water and then put it through the holes, having the straight edge of the key on the bottom side. This operation can easily be done by using a pair of tongs (see Figs. 330 and 331) to compress the washer. After the keys are driven tight they can be cut off with a pair of end cutters and then smoothed with a file.
Fig. 332 Sealing Element Assembly
Turn the element upside down and place over a block of wood so that the weight is supported by the cover. (See Fig. 332.)Heat the sealing compound by means of a flame (a blow torch will answer the purpose), and place the jar over the element, as shown in Fig. 331. The jar should be firmly pressed down into the compound. With a hot putty knife, clean off any compound which has oozed out of the joint. The assembled cell can now be turned to an upright position.In case it is necessary to remove a cover, heat a wide putty knife and run it around the edge between the cover and the glass jar. This will soften the compound so that the cover can be pried off.If it is necessary to remove the cover from the posts, the keys must be driven out by pounding on the small end, as the keys are tapered-and the holes in the lead collars are unequal in size.
Turn the element upside down and place over a block of wood so that the weight is supported by the cover. (See Fig. 332.)
Heat the sealing compound by means of a flame (a blow torch will answer the purpose), and place the jar over the element, as shown in Fig. 331. The jar should be firmly pressed down into the compound. With a hot putty knife, clean off any compound which has oozed out of the joint. The assembled cell can now be turned to an upright position.
In case it is necessary to remove a cover, heat a wide putty knife and run it around the edge between the cover and the glass jar. This will soften the compound so that the cover can be pried off.
If it is necessary to remove the cover from the posts, the keys must be driven out by pounding on the small end, as the keys are tapered-and the holes in the lead collars are unequal in size.
Fill the cells with 1.260 specific gravity electrolyte at 70° F. to the LIQUID LINE marked on the glass jars. (About I inch above the top edge of separators.) Allow the cells to stand 12 hours, and if the level of the electrolyte has lowered, add sufficient electrolyte to bring it to the proper height.
Connect the positive terminal (long strap) of one cell to the negative terminal (short strap) of the adjacent cell and continue this procedure until all the cells are connected together. This will leave one positive and one negative terminal to be connected respectively to the positive and negative wires from the charging source.
The bends in the top terminal connectors should be made about one inch above the pillar posts to eliminate the danger of breakage at the post.
In tightening the bolts, do not use excessive force, as there is liability of stripping the threads.
After the cells have stood for 12 hours with electrolyte in the jars, they should be put on charge at the following rates:
They should be left on charge continuously until the specific gravity of the electrolyte reaches a maximum and remains constant for six hours. At this point, each cell should be gassing freely and the voltage should read about 2.45 volts per cell, with the above current flowing.
Under normal conditions it will require approximately 80 hours to complete the initial charge. The final gravity will be approximately 1.250. If the gravity is above this value, remove a little electrolyte and add the same amount of distilled water.
If the gravity is too low, remove a little of the electrolyte and add the same amount of 1.400 specific gravity acid and leave on charge as before.
After either water or acid has been added, charge the cells three hours longer in order to thoroughly mix the solution, and if at the end of that time the gravity is between 1.245 and 1.255, the cells are ready for service.
It is very important that the initial charge be continued until the specific gravity reaches a maximum value, regardless of the length of time required. The battery must not be discharged until the initial charge has been completed.
If it is impossible to charge the battery continuously, the charge can be stopped over night, but must be resumed the next day.
It is preferable to charge the battery at the ampere rate given above, but if this cannot be done, the temperature must be carefully watched so that it does not exceed 110° F.
Immediately upon receipt of battery, remove the soft rubber nipples and unscrew the vent plugs.
The soft rubber nipples are to be discarded, as they are used only for protection during shipment. Inspect each cell to see whether the electrolyte is at the proper height.
If the electrolyte is simply a little low and there is no evidence of any having been spilled (examine packing material for discoloration), add distilled water to bring the level to the proper height.
If electrolyte does not cover the plates and the packing material is discolored, it indicates that some or all of the electrolyte has been lost from the cell, either on account of cracked jar or overturning of the battery.
If only a small quantity of electrolyte is lost through spilling, the cell should be filled to the proper height with electrolyte of the same specific gravity as in the other cells. This cell should then be charged until the gravity has ceased rising, If all the electrolyte is lost, write to the Willard Storage Battery Co., Cleveland, Ohio, for instructions.
Place batteries on rack and connect the positive terminal of one crate to the negative terminal of the next crate, using the jumpers furnished.
The main battery wires from the switch board should be soldered to the pigtail terminals, which can *then be bolted to the battery terminals. Be sure to have the positive and negative battery terminals connected respectively to the positive and negative generator terminals of switchboard.
Before using the battery, it should be given a freshening charge at the rate given on page 510.
The specific gravity of the rubber jar batteries is 1.285-1.300 when fully charged, and 1.160 when discharged.
Batteries which have been prepared for export must be given the following treatment:
Upon receipt of battery by customer, the special soft rubber nipples, used on the batteries for shipping purposes only, should be removed and discarded.
Types SMW and SEW batteries should at once be filled to bottom of vent hole with 1.285 specific gravity electrolyte at 70° F.
In mixing electrolyte, the acid should be poured into the water and allowed to cool below 90° F. before being put into the cells. If electrolyte is shipped with the battery, it is of the proper gravity to put into the cells.
Immediately after the batteries are filled with electrolyte, they must be placed on charge at one half the normal charging rate given on page 510, and should be left on charge continuously until the specific gravity of the electrolyte stops rising. At this point, each cell should be gassing freely and the voltage should read at least 2.40 volts per cell with one-half the normal charging current flowing.
If during the charge the temperature of the electrolyte in any one cell exceeds 105° F., the current must be reduced until the temperature is below 90° F. This will necessitate a longer time to complete the charge, but must be strictly adhered to.
Under normal conditions it will require approximately 80 hours to complete the initial charge. The final gravity of the types SMW and SEW will be approximately 1.285. If the gravity is above this value, remove a little electrolyte and add same amount of distilled water while the battery is left charging (in order to thoroughly mix the solution), and after three hours, if the electrolyte is within the limits, the cell is ready for service. If the specific gravity is below these values, remove a little electrolyte and add same amount of 1.400 specific gravity electrolyte. Leave on charge as before. The acid should be poured into the water and allowed to cool below 90° P. before being used. The batteries are then ready for service.
Counter EMF cells, if used with a battery, are installed in the same manner as regular cells. They are connected positive to negative, the same as regular cells, but the negative terminal of the CEMF group is to be connected to the negative terminal of the regular cell group. The positive terminal of the counter CEMF group is then to be connected to the switchboard.
Charts Pg. 510: Charge and discharge rates for different types of batteries
(Table of) Contents
Definitions and Descriptions ofTerms and Parts
Acid.As used in this book refers to sulphuric acid (H2SO4), the active component of the electrolyte, or a mixture of sulphuric acid and water.Active Material.The active portion of the battery plates; peroxide of lead on the positives and spongy metallic lead on the negatives.Alloy.As used in battery practice, a homogeneous combination of lead and antimony.Alternating Current.Electric current which does not flow in one direction only, like direct current, but rapidly reverses its direction or "alternates" in polarity so that it will not charge a battery.Ampere.The unit of measure of the rate of flow of electric current.Ampere Hour.The product resulting from multiplication of amperes flowing by time of flow in hours, e.g., a battery supplying 10 amperes for 8 hours gives 80 ampere hours. See note under "Volt?" for more complete explanation of current flow.Battery.Two or more electrical cells, electrically connected so that combination furnishes current as a unit.Battery Terminals.Devices attached to the positive post of one end cell and the negative of the other, by means of which the battery is connected to the car circuit.Bridge (or Rib).Wedge-shaped vertical projection from bottom of rubber jar on which plates rest and by which they are supported.Buckling.Warping or bending of the battery plates.Burning. A term used to describe the operation of joining two pieces of lead by melting them at practically the same instant so they may run together as one continuous piece. Usually done with mixture of oxygen and hydrogen or acetylene gases, hydrogen and compressed air, or oxygen and illuminating gas.Burning Strip.A convenient form of lead, in strips, for filling up the joint in making burned connections.Cadmium.A metal used in about the shape of a pencil for obtaining voltage of positive or negative plates. It is dipped in the electrolyte but not allowed to come in contact with plates.Capacity.The number of ampere hours a battery can supply at a given rate of current flow after being fully charged, e.g., a battery may be capable of supplying 10 amperes of current for 8 hours before it is exhausted. Its capacity is 80 ampere hours at the 8 hours rate of current flow. It is necessary to state the rate of flow, since same battery if discharged at 20 amperes would not last for 4 hours but for a shorter period, say 3 hours. Hence, its capacity at the 3 hour rate would be 3x2O=60 ampere hours.Case.The containing box which holds the battery cells.Cell.The battery unit, consisting of an element complete with electrolyte, in its jar with cover.Charge.Passing direct current through a battery in the direction opposite to that of discharge, in order to put back the energy used on discharge.Charge Rate.The proper rate of current to use in charging a battery from an outside source. It is expressed in amperes and varies for different sized cells.Corrosion.The attack of metal parts by acid from the electrolyte; it is the result of lack of cleanliness.Cover.The rubber cover which closes each individual cell; it is flanged for sealing compound to insure an effective seal.Cycle.One charge and discharge.Density.Specific gravity.Developing.The first cycle or cycles of a new or rebuilt battery to bring about proper electrochemical conditions to give rated capacity.Diffusion.Pertaining to movement of acid within the pores of plates. (See Equalization.)Discharge.The flow of current from a battery through a circuit, opposite of "charge."Dry.Term frequently applied to cell containing insufficient electrolyte. Also applied to certain conditions of shipment of batteries.Electrolyte.The conducting fluid of electro-chemical devices; for lead-acid storage batteries it consists of about two parts of water to one of chemically pure sulphuric acid, by weight.Element.Positive group, negative group and separators.Equalization.The result of circulation and diffusion within the cell which accompanies charge and discharge. Difference in capacity at various rates is caused by the time required for this feature.Equalizing.Term used to describe the making uniform of varying specific gravities in different cells of the same battery, by adding or removing water or electrolyte.Evaporation.Loss of water from electrolyte from heat or charging.Filling Plug.The plug which fits in and closes the orifice of the filling tube in the cell cover.Finishing Rate.The current in amperes at which a battery may be charged for twenty-four hours or more. Also the charging rate used near the end of a charge when cells begin to gas.Flooding.Overflowing through the filling tube.Forming.Electro-chemical process of making pasted grid or other plate, types into storage battery plates. (Often confused with Developing.)Foreign Material.Objectionable substances.Freshening Charge.A charge given to a battery which has been standing idle, to keep it fully charged.Gassing.The giving off of oxygen gas at positive plates and hydrogen at negatives, which begins when charge is something more than half completed-depending on the rate.Generator System.An equipment including a generator for automatically recharging the battery, in contradistinction to a straight storage system where the battery has to be removed to be recharged.Gravity.A contraction of the term "specific gravity," which means the density compared to water as a standard.Grid.The metal framework of a plate, supporting the active material and provided with a lug for conducting the current and for attachment to the strap.Group. A set of plates, either positive or negative, joined to a strap. Groups do not include separators.Hold-Down.Device for keeping separators from floating or working up.Hold-Down Clips.Brackets for the attachment of bolts for holding the battery securely in position on the car.Hydrogen Flame.A very hot and clean flame of hydrogen gas and oxygen, acetylene, or compressed air used for making burned connections.Hydrogen Generator.An apparatus for generating hydrogen gas for lead burning.Hydrometer.An instrument for measuring the specific gravity of the electrolyte.Hydrometer Syringe.A glass barrel enclosing a hydrometer and provided with a rubber bulb for drawing up electrolyte.Jar.The hard rubber container holding the element and electrolyte.Lead Burning.Making a joint by melting together the metal of the parts to be joined.Lug.The extension from the top frame of each plate, connecting the plate to the strap.Maximum Gravity.The highest specific gravity which the electrolyte will reach by continued charging, indicating that no acid remains in the plates.Mud.(See Sediment.)Negative.The terminal of a source of electrical energy as a cell, battery or generator through which current returns to complete circuit. Generally marked "Neg." or "-".Ohm.The unit of electrical resistance. The smaller the wire conductor the greater is the resistance. Six hundred and sixty-five feet of No. 14 wire (size used in house lighting circuit) offers I ohm resistance to current flow.Oil of Vitriol.Commercial name for concentrated sulphuric acid (1.835 specific gravity). This is never used in a battery and would quickly ruin it.Over-Discharge.The carrying of discharge beyond proper cell voltage; shortens life if carried far enough and done frequently.Paste.The mixture of lead oxide or spongy lead and other substances which is put into grids.Plate.The combination of grid and paste properly "formed." Positive$ are reddish brown and negatives slate gray.Polarity.An electrical condition. The positive terminal (or pole) of a cell or battery or electrical circuit is said to have positive polarity; the negative, negative polarity.Positive.The terminal of a source of electrical energy as a cell, battery or generator from which the current flows. Generally marked "Pos." or "+".Post.The portion of the strap extending through the cell cover, by means of which connection is made to the adjoining cell or to the car circuit.Potential Difference.Abbreviated P. D. Found on test curves. Synonymous with voltage.Rate. Number of amperes for charge or discharge. Also used to express time for either.Rectifier.Apparatus for converting alternating current into direct current.Resistance.Material (usually lamps or wire) of low conductivity inserted in a circuit to retard the flow of current. By varying the resistance, the amount of current can be regulated. Also the property of an electrical circuit whereby the flow of current is impeded. Resistance is measured in ohms. Analogous to the impediment offered by wall of a pipe to flow of water therein.Rheostat.An electrical appliance used to raise or lower the resistance of a circuit and correspondingly to decrease or increase the current flowing.Rib.(See Bridge.)Ribbed.(See Separator.)Reversal.Reversal of polarity of cell or battery, due to excessive discharge, or charging in the wrong direction.Rubber Sheets.Thin, perforated hard rubber sheets used in combination with the wood separators in some types of batteries. They are placed between the grooved side of the wood separators and the positive plate.Sealing.Making tight joints between jar and cover; usually with a black, thick, acid-proof compound.Sediment.Loosened or worn out particles of active material fallen to the bottom of cells; frequently called "mud".Sediment Space.That part of jar between bottom and top of bridge.Separator.An insulator between plates of opposite polarity; usually of wood, rubber or combination of both. Separators are generally corrugated or ribbed to insure proper distance between plates and to avoid too great displacement of electrolyte.Short Circuit.A metallic connection between the positive and negative plates within a cell. The plates may be in actual contact or material may lodge and bridge across. If the separators are in good condition, a short circuit is unlikely to occur.Spacers.Wood strips used in some types to separate the cells in the case, and divided to provide a space for the tie bolts.Specific Gravity.The density of the electrolyte compared to water as a standard. It indicates the strength and is measured by the hydrometer.Spray.Fine particles of electrolyte carried up from the surface by gas bubbles. (See Gassing.)Starting Rate.A specified current in amperes at which a discharged battery may be charged at the beginning of a charge. The starting rate is reduced to the finishing rate when the cells begin to gas. It is also reduced at any time during the charge if the temperature of the electrolyte rises to or above 110° Fahrenheit.Starvation.The result of giving insufficient charge in relation to the amount of discharge, resulting in poor service and injury to the battery.Strap.The leaden casting to which the plates of a group are joined.Sulphate.Common term for lead sulphate. (PbSO4.)Sulphated.Term used to describe cells in an under-charged condition, from either over-discharging without corresponding long charges or from standing idle some time and being self discharged.Sulphate Reading.A peculiarity of cell voltage when plates are considerably sulphated, where charging voltage shows abnormally high figures before dropping gradually to normal charging voltage.Terminal.Part to which outside wires are connected.Vent, Vent Plug or Vent-Cap.Hard or soft rubber part inserted in cover to retain atmospheric pressure within the cell, while preventing loss of electrolyte from spray. It allows gases formed in the cell to escape, prevents electrolyte from spilling, and keeps dirt out of the cell.Volt.The commercial unit of pressure in an electric circuit. Voltage is measured by a voltmeter. Analogous to pressure or head of water flow through pipes. NOTE. — Just as increase of pressure causes more volume of water to flow through a given pipe so increase of voltage (by putting more cells in circuit) will cause more amperes of current to flow in same circuit. Decreasing size of pipes is increasing resistance and decreases flow of water, so also introduction of resistance in an electrical circuit decreases current flow with a given voltage or pressure.Wall.Jar sides and ends.Washing.Removal of sediment from cells after taking out elements; usually accompanied by rinsing of groups, replacement of wood separators and renewal of electrolyte.Watt.The commercial unit of electrical power, and is the product of voltage of circuit by amperes flowing. One ampere flowing under pressure of one volt represents one watt of power.Watt Hour.The unit of electrical work. It is the product of power expended by time of expenditure, e.g., 10 amperes flowing under 32 volts pressure for 8 hours gives 2560 watt hours.
Acid.As used in this book refers to sulphuric acid (H2SO4), the active component of the electrolyte, or a mixture of sulphuric acid and water.
Active Material.The active portion of the battery plates; peroxide of lead on the positives and spongy metallic lead on the negatives.
Alloy.As used in battery practice, a homogeneous combination of lead and antimony.
Alternating Current.Electric current which does not flow in one direction only, like direct current, but rapidly reverses its direction or "alternates" in polarity so that it will not charge a battery.
Ampere.The unit of measure of the rate of flow of electric current.
Ampere Hour.The product resulting from multiplication of amperes flowing by time of flow in hours, e.g., a battery supplying 10 amperes for 8 hours gives 80 ampere hours. See note under "Volt?" for more complete explanation of current flow.
Battery.Two or more electrical cells, electrically connected so that combination furnishes current as a unit.
Battery Terminals.Devices attached to the positive post of one end cell and the negative of the other, by means of which the battery is connected to the car circuit.
Bridge (or Rib).Wedge-shaped vertical projection from bottom of rubber jar on which plates rest and by which they are supported.
Buckling.Warping or bending of the battery plates.
Burning. A term used to describe the operation of joining two pieces of lead by melting them at practically the same instant so they may run together as one continuous piece. Usually done with mixture of oxygen and hydrogen or acetylene gases, hydrogen and compressed air, or oxygen and illuminating gas.
Burning Strip.A convenient form of lead, in strips, for filling up the joint in making burned connections.
Cadmium.A metal used in about the shape of a pencil for obtaining voltage of positive or negative plates. It is dipped in the electrolyte but not allowed to come in contact with plates.
Capacity.The number of ampere hours a battery can supply at a given rate of current flow after being fully charged, e.g., a battery may be capable of supplying 10 amperes of current for 8 hours before it is exhausted. Its capacity is 80 ampere hours at the 8 hours rate of current flow. It is necessary to state the rate of flow, since same battery if discharged at 20 amperes would not last for 4 hours but for a shorter period, say 3 hours. Hence, its capacity at the 3 hour rate would be 3x2O=60 ampere hours.
Case.The containing box which holds the battery cells.
Cell.The battery unit, consisting of an element complete with electrolyte, in its jar with cover.
Charge.Passing direct current through a battery in the direction opposite to that of discharge, in order to put back the energy used on discharge.
Charge Rate.The proper rate of current to use in charging a battery from an outside source. It is expressed in amperes and varies for different sized cells.
Corrosion.The attack of metal parts by acid from the electrolyte; it is the result of lack of cleanliness.
Cover.The rubber cover which closes each individual cell; it is flanged for sealing compound to insure an effective seal.
Cycle.One charge and discharge.
Density.Specific gravity.
Developing.The first cycle or cycles of a new or rebuilt battery to bring about proper electrochemical conditions to give rated capacity.
Diffusion.Pertaining to movement of acid within the pores of plates. (See Equalization.)
Discharge.The flow of current from a battery through a circuit, opposite of "charge."
Dry.Term frequently applied to cell containing insufficient electrolyte. Also applied to certain conditions of shipment of batteries.
Electrolyte.The conducting fluid of electro-chemical devices; for lead-acid storage batteries it consists of about two parts of water to one of chemically pure sulphuric acid, by weight.
Element.Positive group, negative group and separators.
Equalization.The result of circulation and diffusion within the cell which accompanies charge and discharge. Difference in capacity at various rates is caused by the time required for this feature.
Equalizing.Term used to describe the making uniform of varying specific gravities in different cells of the same battery, by adding or removing water or electrolyte.
Evaporation.Loss of water from electrolyte from heat or charging.
Filling Plug.The plug which fits in and closes the orifice of the filling tube in the cell cover.
Finishing Rate.The current in amperes at which a battery may be charged for twenty-four hours or more. Also the charging rate used near the end of a charge when cells begin to gas.
Flooding.Overflowing through the filling tube.
Forming.Electro-chemical process of making pasted grid or other plate, types into storage battery plates. (Often confused with Developing.)
Foreign Material.Objectionable substances.
Freshening Charge.A charge given to a battery which has been standing idle, to keep it fully charged.
Gassing.The giving off of oxygen gas at positive plates and hydrogen at negatives, which begins when charge is something more than half completed-depending on the rate.
Generator System.An equipment including a generator for automatically recharging the battery, in contradistinction to a straight storage system where the battery has to be removed to be recharged.
Gravity.A contraction of the term "specific gravity," which means the density compared to water as a standard.
Grid.The metal framework of a plate, supporting the active material and provided with a lug for conducting the current and for attachment to the strap.
Group. A set of plates, either positive or negative, joined to a strap. Groups do not include separators.
Hold-Down.Device for keeping separators from floating or working up.
Hold-Down Clips.Brackets for the attachment of bolts for holding the battery securely in position on the car.
Hydrogen Flame.A very hot and clean flame of hydrogen gas and oxygen, acetylene, or compressed air used for making burned connections.
Hydrogen Generator.An apparatus for generating hydrogen gas for lead burning.
Hydrometer.An instrument for measuring the specific gravity of the electrolyte.
Hydrometer Syringe.A glass barrel enclosing a hydrometer and provided with a rubber bulb for drawing up electrolyte.
Jar.The hard rubber container holding the element and electrolyte.
Lead Burning.Making a joint by melting together the metal of the parts to be joined.
Lug.The extension from the top frame of each plate, connecting the plate to the strap.
Maximum Gravity.The highest specific gravity which the electrolyte will reach by continued charging, indicating that no acid remains in the plates.
Mud.(See Sediment.)
Negative.The terminal of a source of electrical energy as a cell, battery or generator through which current returns to complete circuit. Generally marked "Neg." or "-".
Ohm.The unit of electrical resistance. The smaller the wire conductor the greater is the resistance. Six hundred and sixty-five feet of No. 14 wire (size used in house lighting circuit) offers I ohm resistance to current flow.
Oil of Vitriol.Commercial name for concentrated sulphuric acid (1.835 specific gravity). This is never used in a battery and would quickly ruin it.
Over-Discharge.The carrying of discharge beyond proper cell voltage; shortens life if carried far enough and done frequently.
Paste.The mixture of lead oxide or spongy lead and other substances which is put into grids.
Plate.The combination of grid and paste properly "formed." Positive$ are reddish brown and negatives slate gray.
Polarity.An electrical condition. The positive terminal (or pole) of a cell or battery or electrical circuit is said to have positive polarity; the negative, negative polarity.
Positive.The terminal of a source of electrical energy as a cell, battery or generator from which the current flows. Generally marked "Pos." or "+".
Post.The portion of the strap extending through the cell cover, by means of which connection is made to the adjoining cell or to the car circuit.
Potential Difference.Abbreviated P. D. Found on test curves. Synonymous with voltage.
Rate. Number of amperes for charge or discharge. Also used to express time for either.
Rectifier.Apparatus for converting alternating current into direct current.
Resistance.Material (usually lamps or wire) of low conductivity inserted in a circuit to retard the flow of current. By varying the resistance, the amount of current can be regulated. Also the property of an electrical circuit whereby the flow of current is impeded. Resistance is measured in ohms. Analogous to the impediment offered by wall of a pipe to flow of water therein.
Rheostat.An electrical appliance used to raise or lower the resistance of a circuit and correspondingly to decrease or increase the current flowing.
Rib.(See Bridge.)
Ribbed.(See Separator.)
Reversal.Reversal of polarity of cell or battery, due to excessive discharge, or charging in the wrong direction.
Rubber Sheets.Thin, perforated hard rubber sheets used in combination with the wood separators in some types of batteries. They are placed between the grooved side of the wood separators and the positive plate.
Sealing.Making tight joints between jar and cover; usually with a black, thick, acid-proof compound.
Sediment.Loosened or worn out particles of active material fallen to the bottom of cells; frequently called "mud".
Sediment Space.That part of jar between bottom and top of bridge.
Separator.An insulator between plates of opposite polarity; usually of wood, rubber or combination of both. Separators are generally corrugated or ribbed to insure proper distance between plates and to avoid too great displacement of electrolyte.
Short Circuit.A metallic connection between the positive and negative plates within a cell. The plates may be in actual contact or material may lodge and bridge across. If the separators are in good condition, a short circuit is unlikely to occur.
Spacers.Wood strips used in some types to separate the cells in the case, and divided to provide a space for the tie bolts.
Specific Gravity.The density of the electrolyte compared to water as a standard. It indicates the strength and is measured by the hydrometer.
Spray.Fine particles of electrolyte carried up from the surface by gas bubbles. (See Gassing.)
Starting Rate.A specified current in amperes at which a discharged battery may be charged at the beginning of a charge. The starting rate is reduced to the finishing rate when the cells begin to gas. It is also reduced at any time during the charge if the temperature of the electrolyte rises to or above 110° Fahrenheit.
Starvation.The result of giving insufficient charge in relation to the amount of discharge, resulting in poor service and injury to the battery.
Strap.The leaden casting to which the plates of a group are joined.
Sulphate.Common term for lead sulphate. (PbSO4.)
Sulphated.Term used to describe cells in an under-charged condition, from either over-discharging without corresponding long charges or from standing idle some time and being self discharged.
Sulphate Reading.A peculiarity of cell voltage when plates are considerably sulphated, where charging voltage shows abnormally high figures before dropping gradually to normal charging voltage.
Terminal.Part to which outside wires are connected.
Vent, Vent Plug or Vent-Cap.Hard or soft rubber part inserted in cover to retain atmospheric pressure within the cell, while preventing loss of electrolyte from spray. It allows gases formed in the cell to escape, prevents electrolyte from spilling, and keeps dirt out of the cell.
Volt.The commercial unit of pressure in an electric circuit. Voltage is measured by a voltmeter. Analogous to pressure or head of water flow through pipes. NOTE. — Just as increase of pressure causes more volume of water to flow through a given pipe so increase of voltage (by putting more cells in circuit) will cause more amperes of current to flow in same circuit. Decreasing size of pipes is increasing resistance and decreases flow of water, so also introduction of resistance in an electrical circuit decreases current flow with a given voltage or pressure.
Wall.Jar sides and ends.
Washing.Removal of sediment from cells after taking out elements; usually accompanied by rinsing of groups, replacement of wood separators and renewal of electrolyte.
Watt.The commercial unit of electrical power, and is the product of voltage of circuit by amperes flowing. One ampere flowing under pressure of one volt represents one watt of power.
Watt Hour.The unit of electrical work. It is the product of power expended by time of expenditure, e.g., 10 amperes flowing under 32 volts pressure for 8 hours gives 2560 watt hours.
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