What is the correct treatment method for battery plate sulfation?
3 Answers
You can use the small current charging method to deal with it. The specific steps are as follows: 1. First, add pure distilled water to the electrolyte to reduce the specific gravity to below 1.2, and the liquid level should reach the upper standard line. 2. Charge with half of the 10h discharge rate current until bubbles start to appear and the voltage reaches about 2.4V, then stop charging for 30 minutes. 3. Reduce the charging current to 1/4 of the 10h discharge rate current and continue charging until both the positive and negative plates are vigorously bubbling, then stop charging for 20 minutes. 4. Continue charging with half of the 10h discharge rate current until it returns to normal. 5. Note: Do not arbitrarily add acid to the battery during the charging process, and the specific gravity of the electrolyte must not exceed the specified value.
Battery plate sulfation sounds very technical, but it essentially means the formation of lead sulfate crystals on the internal plates, which reduces battery performance. I encountered this issue with my previous car—it always felt like there wasn't enough power when starting in the morning, and the diagnosis was sulfation due to prolonged battery inactivity. The correct approach is not to rush into replacing the battery. Instead, use a low-current charger to slowly charge it for several hours, such as with a dedicated desulfation charging mode, to gradually break down the crystals. If recovery isn’t possible, then consider replacing the battery. For maintenance, I recommend starting the car for about 10-15 minutes weekly to keep the battery charged, which helps prevent sulfation and extends battery life. Always prioritize safety when charging—avoid damp areas to prevent fire hazards. In short, timely action is crucial; otherwise, a roadside breakdown could become a major hassle.
As a new driver, I've also encountered the issue of battery sulfation. That time, after returning from a business trip, my car sat idle for several weeks without moving. When I tried to start it, there was no response at all. The mechanic later told me it was due to plate sulfation. The proper solution is to use a specialized desulfation charger for a long, slow charge, typically requiring 12 to 24 hours, which can dissolve the crystallization. If that doesn't work, the only option is to replace the battery. The lesson I learned is not to let the car sit idle for too long—at least drive it around every two weeks to recharge, or disconnect the negative terminal to protect it. Also, pay attention to seasonal temperature changes; problems are more likely in winter, so a battery check before winter is essential. Understanding these things can save on repair costs and increase trust in your car.