The procedure of mixing the electrolyte in batteries by temporarily overcharging the batteries is known as equalization charge. An equalizing charge is simply an intentional overcharge to eliminate sulfate crystals that accumulate on the plates over time. Sulfation, if left unchecked, can reduce the overall capacity of the battery and, in extreme instances, render it unusable. A reversed acid stratification charge reverses acid stratification, a condition in which acid concentration is higher at the bottom of the battery than at the top.
What Often Should You Perform Equalizing Services?
After learning about equalization charge, let’s also see how often you should perform equalizing services. Experts advise performing equalizing services anywhere from once a month to twice a year. Applying a completely saturated charge and then using a hydrometer to compare the specific gravity (SG) readings on the individual cells of a flooded lead acid battery is a superior technique. If the SG difference between the cells is less than 0.030, then only perform equalization.
What Should You Do While Equalizing Charge?
Every hour during the equalizing charge, monitor for changes in the SG reading, and when the gravity stops rising, stop the charge. At this point, there is no chance for growth, and continuing to charge the battery would damage it.
Keep the battery cool and keep an eye out for unusual heat increases and excessive venting. Some leakage is typical, and the released hydrogen is extremely flammable. Given that hydrogen gas explodes at a concentration of 4%, the battery room must have adequate ventilation.
VRLA and other sealed batteries require guessing to equalize. The frequency and length of the service must be estimated using sound judgment because observing the variations in cell voltage does not provide a definitive answer. Some makers advise 2–16 hour equalizations every month. The majority of VRLAs vent at a pressure of 34 kPa (5 psi), and repeated venting causes the electrolyte to be depleted, which may result in a dry-out situation.
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