A battery that is rechargeable and supplies electric energy to an automobile is known as automotive batteries.
In an automobile electrical energy is required for various functions. To put on the head lights and other lights, for the starter motors, for starting the ignition system of the engine the battery provides the energy.
Automotive batteries are also known as SLI batteries where ‘S’ stands for starter, ‘L’ for lights and ‘I’ for ignition. If it’s an electric vehicle the battery is defined as the traction battery for the automotive.
Normally, lead acid type automotive starter batteries provide twelve volt PV with series of six galvanic cells. Single cell is provides 2. 1 volts. Together the six cells at full charge will provide 12. 6 volts. The battery consists of lead plates and plates of lead oxide. They are submerged in electrolyte solution consisting of sixty five percent water and thirty five percent sulphuric acid. Electrons are produced by chemical reaction, flowing through conductors and producing electric energy.
When the battery gets discharged, there is a reaction that happens between the materials of the plates and the electrolyte acid. The plate surface changes to lead sulphate. The battery needs to be recharged to reverse the chemical reaction. During recharge, the lead sulphate on the plate converts to lead oxide and lead. The battery can be used again till the next recharge schedule.
The lead acid type batteries are used with various construction techniques. The most common in use these days are ‘flooded cell’ type batteries. There are types like absorbed glass material types, SLI types, shallow cycle types and deep cycle types.
The batteries need to be maintained and used with proper care for long life. Proper maintenance is essential for smooth use of your automobile too. On the highway while driving long distances your battery should be in perfect order to give you a driving pleasure.
