Page 28 - Ready for IMPACT Battery Blog
-
- October 12, 2012
The correct battery charger and charging techniques can prolong the life of your battery. They can prevent the damage that can occur from undercharging or overcharging the device. There are five basic recharging methods. They are constant voltage, constant current, pulsed current, tapered current, and trickle charging. Certain batteries require a specific recharging process while other batteries can use different methods.
Constant Voltage
This type of charger maintains a constant voltage regardless of the battery’s charging status. It is the most basic method of charging batteries. They are widely available in the form of inexpensive car battery chargers. It uses a direct current from a power supply. Constant-voltage chargers are used frequently to charge batteries that require extended charging periods, such as lead acid car batteries. These chargers are not generally recommended for devices that require frequent cycling. This method is appropriate for lithium-ion batteries if the charger
-
- October 11, 2012
Warning: This post has political content. Objective viewers only.
I was reading an article citing a Fox News Poll that had typical political banter and election year spin. But one section stood out and shocked me! It had nothing to do with the race for the White House and simply asked a Americans what they thought of the Libya situation and how the government responded. Below is the paragraph that caught my attention:
"Almost all Republicans (90 percent) and a majority of independents (70 percent) call the administration’s actions troubling. For Democrats, 43 percent say “troubling” and 45 percent say it’s “not much of a concern.” Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2012/10/10/fox-news-poll-53-percent-say-obama-failed-on-economy-libya-troubling/#ixzz28zzT2mXs
We all witnessed that the Obama administration was quick to blame or label this attack as a "spontaneous reaction" to some nimrods anti-Islamic video posted online. They went on numerous talk shows immediately following the
-
- October 10, 2012
Recent advances in battery technology have led to a proliferation of battery-powered devices. Businesses and other organizations often store batteries on their property to support equipment and devices, such as computers, flashlights, alarms, and sensors. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulate battery storage because the devices can cause injuries and damage if handled improperly. The regulations are designed to protect employees and customers.
Battery Storage Room
Batteries should be stored in a designated room that is located away from heavily congested or high traffic areas. If the building does not have a separate room, the organization must erect a barrier or install a mechanical device that will prevent equipment and people from inadvertently contacting the batteries. The storage location should have readily identifiable warning signs, such as “No Sparks,” “No Smoking,” “No Open Flames,” or “Explosion Hazard.” Organizations located in geographical areas
-
- October 07, 2012
If you have a boat, golf cart, or backup power supply, you may have noticed that these devices use deep cycle batteries. What are deep cycle batteries, and why do you need them?
A deep cycle battery is designed to discharge a large percentage of its total capacity with each use. Most deep cycle batteries are based on lead-acid battery technologies; a few other designs exist, but they are both more expensive and less efficient than lead-acid designs. Deep cycle batteries are ideal for applications where the battery will be providing some or all of the power to run a particular device.
How Does a Deep Cycle Battery Work?
As with all lead-acid batteries, a chemical reaction between the acid, or electrolyte, and the positive plate creates an electrical current. This current powers whatever devices the battery is connected to before finally being deposited in the negative plate. While the size of the current depends on the surface area of the lead plates, the efficiency and lifetime of the battery -
- October 05, 2012
Golf is a pleasurable sport as players can test their skills while enjoying remarkable scenery and light physical activity. A golf cart will enhance a day spent on the course since players can easily zip from hole to hole. However, a golf cart battery can quickly mar a pleasant day on the course when it fails to start the motorized vehicle.
Assess the Golf Cart Battery
Before completing a jump-start on a battery, players should inspect the device to make sure the cart’s connections are complete. In addition, players should check the battery for corrosion on the cables along with the contact points.
In order to remain safe during a battery assessment, players should turn the vehicle’s engine off and wear gloves. Keep in mind that golf cart batteries feature battery acid, which can cause burns if it touches human skin. During the battery assessment, players should use a wrench to shift the contacts, and with a rubbing alcohol doused towel, they can safely remove the battery’s built up corrosion.
-
- September 26, 2012
A Shift in Thinking
It is hard to believe it has been one year since the Occupy Wall Street campaign began. The Occupy Wall Street movement of 2011-2012 made headlines and on many facets divided a nation. This division most notably concerned the idea of the minority that have actual monetary wealth and perceived power compared to the majority, which on the surface, do not; the impoverished 99% vs. the high rolling 1%. Frankly it was disgusting to watch a large portion of our nation embrace the idea that hard work, ingenuity, sacrifice, learned failure and creativity are not worthwhile achievements. It saddened me to discover, as major news agencies reported, that nearly half the nation feels they are owed something by our government and those that earn a higher wage than they do.
Work: a Four Letter Word
Why is it, those that have worked hard to become successful (by worldly standards) are vilified? What has changed in our society that we curse those people that have persevered and achieved
-
- September 25, 2012
Although a utility task vehicle (UTV) and an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) have similar characteristics, they are two distinct vehicles that are designed to perform different tasks. Both vehicles can operate in rough, off-road terrain and are usually powered by internal combustion engines. Some manufacturers also produce vehicles with electric motors that are powered by batteries. UTVs and ATVs are equipped with suspension systems and tires that are designed to go off road. The center of gravity in these vehicles is close to the ground to prevent rollovers in uneven terrain.
Different Laws Regarding Use on Roadways
The laws regarding the use of these vehicles will vary based upon their configurations. UTVs are more likely to operate on roadways than ATVs. Automakers manufacture UTVs with signal lights and safety equipment that are required to make the vehicle street legal. Most ATVs require aftermarket modifications in order to operate legally on roadways. Some jurisdictions prohibit people
-
- September 25, 2012
Dirt bikes are responsive lightweight motorcycles that are designed to handle off-road conditions. Some bikes have gas engines that require a battery to start the engine, while others are completely battery powered. Dirt bike batteries are durable devices that can provide many years of reliable service with proper maintenance and care. Over time, batteries will lose their ability to take or maintain a charge. The following steps will help you change your battery when it reaches the end of its serviceable life.
Locating the Battery
Park your bike on a flat surface, and turn off the ignition. Ensure that there are no open flames or flammable liquids in the area. Protective eyewear, gloves and clothing will help you avoid contact with the battery acid. The battery compartment of gas engine dirt bikes are usually mounted beneath the seat. If your battery is located in this position, you will need to remove the seat in order to access the compartment. Electric dirt bikes normally have battery
-
- September 23, 2012
Since the introduction of lead acid batteries in 1859, scientists have sought ways to perfect the device. They later discovered that these types of batteries were rechargeable. Manufacturers eventually developed other types of rechargeable batteries. Although these batteries are more cost-effective than single-use batteries, rechargeable models eventually lose their ability to power devices. Another issue is the ever-increasing energy demand of battery-powered consumer products.
Battery Technology of the Future
Scientists are creating a new generation of high-tech batteries to meet the increasing demand for power. They are also expanding the life of batteries by increasing their maximum number of charging cycles. The U.S. military is developing a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that can be incorporated into the clothing that soldiers wear. Northwestern University researchers have developed an electrical conductor that enables lithium-ion batteries to charge faster and retain the charge
-
- September 19, 2012
Each year, Americans spend billions of dollars on batteries for toys, cordless phones, alarm clocks and other household items. Studies indicate that the average American discards approximately eight batteries annually. These tips will help you get the most from your household batteries.
Use Rechargeable Batteries
Although it will cost a little more to purchase rechargeable household batteries, you will save money because they last much longer than single-use models. You can recharge Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries thousands of times before they fail. The most important thing to remember about these batteries is to practice proper charging techniques. A smart charger will protect your battery from damage that can occur from overcharging. If you allow the battery to drain completely or do not recharge it on a regular basis, it will not last as long as it should. Ensure that you fully charge your batteries prior to using them for the first time. If you interrupt charging cycles