Acid Density, Measuring

Acid Density, Measuring

Special tools, testers and auxiliary items required

• Refractometer (T10007) or

• Commercially Available Hydrometer

Procedure

In conjunction with the battery test using the Battery tester (VAS 6161)=> [ Battery Test Using Battery Tester ] Battery Test Using Battery Tester (VAS 6161), the acid density test provides information about the condition of the battery.

• The temperature of the battery acid must be at least +10° C (50° F).

Risk of injury from direct exposure to battery acid.

• Follow accident prevention regulations when working with battery acid. Refer to=> [ There is a risk of injury from
the battery acid. ] Lead-Acid Battery Warnings and Safety Precautions.

• Wear protective eyewear and clothing. Refer to => [ Protect against injury by using
protective eyewear and clothing. ] Lead-Acid Battery Warnings and Safety Precautions.

• Specific density of the electrolyte can be checked immediately after charging battery.

- Remove all sealing plugs of battery cells.

- Dip hydrometer into battery cell and siphon off enough electrolyte until the float floats freely in electrolyte.






• The higher the specific weight of the siphoned battery acid, the higher the float will float.

• The acid density of the electrolyte can be read off in kg/dm3 on the hydrometer scale (specific density of the battery acid).

- Compare hydrometer reading to values given in table.






Specific acid density must be at least 1.24 kg/dm3 in moderate climate zones. If the acid density in all battery cells is too low:

- Charge battery and repeat acid density test.











- If the specified values are not reached, replace the battery.

• The measured values for the specific density of the individual battery cells must not deviate by more than 0.03 kg/dm3, otherwise the battery should be replaced.

Risk due to leaking battery acid.

• To ensure that the various battery connection systems are free of leaks, the battery's original sealing plugs must be installed in the battery openings. Only replace missing or damaged sealing plugs with the same type of original plugs.

• The sealing plugs must be equipped with an O-ring.

- If the specified values are reached, reinstall the sealing plugs on the battery cells.

• If the battery must be replaced, follow the disposal regulations. Refer to=> [ Pollution risk. ] Lead-Acid Battery Warnings and Safety Precautions.