Structure and properties of lead–calcium–tin alloys for battery grids

The selection of an appropriate alloy composition for battery grids is essential for the performance and long life of lead/acid batteries. This investigation examines the effects of the variation of calcium (0.03 to 0.13 wt.%) and tin (0.3 to 1.5 wt.%) content on the microstructure, mechanical properties and the corrosion resistance of cast Pb–Ca–Sn battery grids. Both corrosion resistance and the mechanical properties are found to increase with increasing tin and decreasing calcium levels. The relationship between the alloy composition and the resulting properties of the grids is discussed.