ABSTRACT
This chapter argues that the battery-testing methods are recommended specifically for testing low-water-loss batteries and starting, lighting and ignition (sli) (automotive) batteries. The internal construction of low-water-loss batteries may include envelope separators, expanded grids, greater electrolyte reserve volume above the plates and sophisticated venting systems designed to minimize acid loss. The grids contain little or no antimony as the presence of antimony greatly increases the rate of water loss and self-discharge. Some low-water-loss batteries are completely sealed except for the presence of small vent holes and therefore, water cannot be added to them. A variety of load testers, hydrometers and voltmeters are available for testing different battery types. If available, an adjustable-load tester and a hydrometer which reads in units of specific gravity, rather than a fixed-load tester and an open-circuit voltmeter or a hydrometer which reads only the battery's condition, should be used.
