
Conventional batteries
Conventional batteries
53
6 Maintenance
Battery, cables and connections
Every 100 operating hours.
22 Checking electrolyte level
For conventional batteries it is required to
check the electrolyte level regularly. Remove
vent caps (taking care no spark or open flame
is nearby) and inspect the level. Fluid should
be 10 to 15 mm (
3
/
8
” to
5
/
8
”) above top of all
plates. If necessary top up with distilled water.
Replace vent caps and charge the battery for
15 minutes at 15 - 25 Amps to mix electrolyte.
23 Checking specific gravity
Measure the electrolyte specific gravity of the
individual cells with a commercial hydrom-
eter. The hydrometer reading (see table) indi-
cates the state of charge. Hydrometer reading
of all cells should be at least 1.200 and show
less than 0.050 between high and low. If not,
recharge or replace battery.
Specific
gravity
State of
charge
1,.8 kg/l
100%
1.20 kg/l
50%
recharge
1.12 kg/l
10%
recharge
immediately
During checking the temperature of the elec-
trolyte should preferably be 20°C (68°F).
Measuring the specific gravity shortly after
water has been added results in an incorrect
measurement. First charge the battery to mix
the added water thoroughly.
VD00120
VD00119