Subject: LED Digital Volt & Alternator (2 in1) Tue Mar 17, 2009 11:55 am
Flat batteries usually happen at the most inconvenient time, in the most inappropriate place and when the weather is being totally disagreeable. In fact, the battery is probably the most unreliable component in a modern vehicle.
A car battery can only deliver peak performance if it is properly maintained. This not only involves keeping an eye on the electrolyte level but also ensuring that the charging voltage operates within strict limits. That means a charging voltage of 13.8-14.4V for a 12V battery, or 27.6-28.8V for a 24V battery.
If the battery voltage never reaches 13.3V, then either the charging voltage is too low or the battery is on the way out. This means that the battery will be marginal when it comes to delivering the necessary current during starting, particularly in cold weather. Conversely, if the battery is being overcharged, the electrolyte will gas excessively, leaving the plates dry and reducing the battery’s amp-hour (Ah) capacity.
This can not only dramatically shorten the life of the battery but in severe cases (eg, if the voltage regulator has failed) could damage various electronic equipment in the car.