New testing methods for evaluation of the life of lead/acid batteries

Previously defined methods of evaluating the life of lead-acid batteries do not permit the establishment of a reliable relationship between laboratory test data and the service life of batteries in actual use. As a result, it has been necessary to define alternative nondestructive methods of test which can be accurately correlated with life. For this, the method consists of an elevated temperature test at a constant float voltage. Capacity measurement at defined time intervals, and an assessment of the degree of grid corrosion which is compared to the corrosion behaviour of cells with known periods on float at room temperature. The correlation factor between the test and actual service can therefore be precisely assessed. Earlier test methods are outlined and the procedure for the new test is described. Results are given for the life of various types of battery in standby power applications