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Understanding-Automotive-Battery-Systems

This presentation offers a comprehensive overview of automotive battery systems, detailing their functions, construction, types, and maintenance. It explains how batteries power vehicles, the chemical processes involved in energy storage and discharge, and essential inspection and charging techniques. The guide is suitable for mechanics, students, and anyone interested in understanding automotive batteries.

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N4T SU
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7 views10 pages

Understanding-Automotive-Battery-Systems

This presentation offers a comprehensive overview of automotive battery systems, detailing their functions, construction, types, and maintenance. It explains how batteries power vehicles, the chemical processes involved in energy storage and discharge, and essential inspection and charging techniques. The guide is suitable for mechanics, students, and anyone interested in understanding automotive batteries.

Uploaded by

N4T SU
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PPTX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Understanding

Automotive Battery
Systems
This presentation provides a detailed overview of automotive battery
systems, covering their function, construction, types, inspection, and
charging. Whether you're a seasoned mechanic, a student, or simply
interested in how your car works, this guide will provide the essential
knowledge about battery systems. We'll explore how batteries power your
vehicle, what they're made of, and how to keep them in top condition.

by DELA CRUZ, NATHANIEL GIAN


Functions of an Automotive Battery
Primary Power Source Engine Starting Electrical Stabilizer

The battery provides electricity to Its most critical function is to start the It also supplies electric energy to the
vehicle systems when the engine is not engine by providing electrical energy to vehicle system when the alternator
running, powering lights, radio, and the starter motor and ignition system. cannot meet the demand and gets
other accessories. Without a functioning This initial surge of power is essential to charged when the alternator exceeds
battery, these systems would be get the combustion process going. the vehicle's electrical needs. It acts as
inoperable when the car is off. a stabilizer by absorbing excess power
and supplying it when needed.
Construction of a Lead-
Acid Battery
Six Interconnected Cells Lead Plates and
Separators
An automotive battery is made of
six cells stacked together, each Each cell consists of layers of
contributing to the overall voltage positively and negatively charged
of the battery. lead plates with insulated
separators that prevent short
circuits between the plates.

Sulfuric Acid Electrolyte


The cells are filled with an electrolyte, a mixture of distilled water and sulfuric
acid (2:1 ratio), facilitating the chemical reactions that produce electrical
energy.
Battery Operation:
Chemical Energy to
Electricity
Energy Storage
The battery stores electricity in the form of chemical energy.

Current Supply
When connected to a load, the chemical reaction produces and supplies
current, depleting chemical energy.

Discharging
In the process, it starts losing its chemical energy and finally gets
discharged.

Recharging
The lost chemical energy can be rebuilt by the alternator supplying
current in reverse, known as charging.
Types of Automotive Batteries
Conventional Batteries Maintenance-Free Batteries

These batteries require frequent topping up to maintain the These modern batteries eliminate the need to add electrolyte
electrolyte level at the desired mark. They are equipped with solution or water to the cells, offering convenience and reduced
vent plugs at each cell to facilitate top-up and specific gravity maintenance. They also resist corrosion and electrolyte
checks. These batteries are becoming less common. leakage, making them a reliable choice.
Battery Capacity Ratings:
Understanding AH and CCA

1 Ampere-Hour (AH) 2 Cold Cranking Amps 3 Cranking Amps (CA)


(CCA)
This rating indicates the amount of CA measures the current a fully
current a fully charged battery can CCA specifies the current a fully charged battery can supply for 30
supply for 20 hours while charged battery can supply for 30 seconds at 32°F (0°C) with the
maintaining a terminal voltage seconds at 0°F (-17.8°C) with the voltage above 7.2V, providing
above 10.5V at 80°F (26.7°C). For voltage above 7.2V. This is crucial insight into starting performance in
example, a 40 AH battery can for starting the engine in cold moderate temperatures.
deliver 2 Amperes for 20 hours. weather conditions.
Essential Battery Inspection Steps
Battery Condition 1
Check for any damage or cracks in the battery body
that could result in electrolyte leakage. Replace the
battery if such damages are found to prevent safety 2 Electrolyte Level
hazards. Ensure the electrolyte level is between the MAX and
MIN marks on the battery body. If low, top up with
distilled water only; never use mineral or tap water.
Specific Gravity (Charge Level) 3
Use a hydrometer to check the specific gravity of the
electrolyte. A fully charged battery should have a
specific gravity of 1.270, while a discharged one is Voltage Check
4
around 1.100.
Use a digital voltmeter to check the battery voltage. A
fully charged battery will show 12.6 volts, while a
discharged battery will read less than 12.0 volts.
Specific Gravity Test:
Using a Hydrometer
Safety First
Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from potential acid splashes.

Access the Cells


Remove the vent caps from all battery cells to access the electrolyte.

Draw Electrolyte
Squeeze the hydrometer bulb and insert the tube into the cell. Slowly
release the bulb to draw electrolyte into the hydrometer.

Read and Repeat


Ensure the float is free and take the reading of the electrolyte level
on the float. Repeat this process for all cells.
Voltage Check: Assessing Battery Charge Le

12.6V
Fully Charged
Indicates the battery is at 100% charge.

12.0-12.4V
Partially Charged
Suggests the battery is at 75% charge and requires freshening.

11.6-12.0V
Discharged
Shows the battery is at 50% charge and needs a full recharge.

<11.55V
Deeply Discharged
Indicates the battery is at 0% charge and requires special treatment.
Battery Charging: Restoring Chemical Energ
Reverse Reaction
Charger Use
Battery charging reverses the chemical 1 Use a manual or automatic charger to
reaction inside the battery, rebuilding 2 supply current to the battery.
its energy.

Monitor Slow Rate


4
Regularly monitor specific gravity, Preferably charge the battery at a slow
voltage, and temperature during
3 rate of around 2A to minimize heat and
charging. prolong battery life.

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