The Garage 356

Acid stratification and deep cycling:
Acid stratification occurs when acid in
the electrolyte solution concentrates at
the bottom of battery cells. This is more
common in cold months and results from
undercharging and short driving periods.
Deep discharging and rapid recharging, as
seen in taxis and delivery vans, can lead
to rapid performance loss and premature
failure.
Overcharging and undercharging:
Overcharging is caused by a malfunctioning
charging system, leading to battery
overheating and electrolyte evaporation.
Undercharging, common in vehicles used
for short journeys, results in slow plate
sulphation, particularly when alternator
voltage is low, the drive belt is loose, or
cables exhibit high resistance.
Short circuits, dead cells and internal
breaks:
Short circuits and dead cells are typical
within the first year of battery service.
Short circuits can be identified through
lower specific gravity (SG) and boiling during
discharge tests. Internal breaks are detected
by good SG readings but no open circuit
voltage reading.
Does product quality matter?
Product quality is paramount when it comes
to car batteries! If the battery is the heart of
a vehicle, would you settle for anything less
than the best? Premium OE brand batteries,
like that from Banner, are known for their
quality and durability.
When compared to private label products
of the same size and specifications,
premium batteries often stand out in terms
of weight, indicating a higher lead content.
Manufacturers can cut costs by reducing
materials used in battery construction,
resulting in smaller, thinner, and fewer
plates, but this cost-cutting approach
compromises the battery’s reliability,
specification, performance, and overall
lifespan.
In such batteries, power delivery
is often achieved by increasing the
acid concentration in the electrolyte.
Unfortunately, this has a direct and
detrimental impact on performance and
longevity. A battery’s life cycle, divided into
three phases – formatting, peak and decline
– is compromised when plate numbers and
lead content are reduced, and acid strength
is increased.
Conclusion
Understanding the causes of car battery
NEWS
failures is essential for automotive
aftermarket professionals. The winter season
poses unique challenges to battery health.
By being proactive and addressing
these issues, reiterating the importance
of using a premium battery, we can help
motorists keep their wheels turning and
enjoy a reliable and problem-free driving
experience. This proactive approach not
only benefits the customers but also creates
profit opportunities for both technicians and
motor factors.
Bowmonk & Tapley have for decades been the
most recognised and trusted name in portable
brake testers and garage equipment.
The Bowmonk BrakeCheck is the electronic
version that carries on from that pedigree.
BrakeCheck is DVSA approved for all classes of
vehicle and it records braking efficiency and
percentage of braking imbalance.
• Portable & easy to use
• No connections to vehicle required
• GEA MTS Connected Approved (Upgrade Available)
• DVSA approved for all classes of vehicle
• Print results to optional portable wireless printer
• Approved for 6-weekly checks
• Download results to PC (optional software required)
• Approved for quarterly brake test requirements
• Records braking efficiency and percentage of braking imbalance
Bowmonk Ltd, Diamond Road, Norwich, NR6 6AW T: +44 (0)1603 485 153 E: info@bowmonk.com www.bowmonk.com
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