EGSA Battery and Starting Systems 3

Question 1

What is the typical recommended maintenance interval for checking electrolyte levels in flooded lead-acid generator starting batteries?

Accepted Answer

Monthly or per manufacturer's recommendation

Answer

Every 6 months

Answer

Only when the battery fails to start the engine

Answer

Every 5 years as part of major overhaul

Question 2

Which battery interconnect configuration is used to increase battery bank voltage to 24V for a generator set originally designed for 12V starting?

Accepted Answer

Connecting batteries in series

Answer

Connecting batteries in parallel

Answer

Connecting batteries with a center-tap configuration

Answer

Connecting batteries through a voltage doubler circuit

Question 3

What is sulfation in a lead-acid battery, and when does it occur?

Accepted Answer

Crystallization of lead sulfate on battery plates, which occurs when a battery remains in a discharged state for extended periods

Answer

Build-up of sulfuric acid on the battery case exterior from overfilling

Answer

Corrosion of battery terminals caused by electrolyte vapors

Answer

Chemical reaction between sulfuric acid and the battery grid alloy during normal operation

Question 4

What type of battery charger is preferred for maintaining standby generator batteries because it automatically adjusts output to maintain a constant voltage?

Accepted Answer

Constant-voltage (float) charger

Answer

Constant-current charger

Answer

Pulse charger

Answer

Taper charger

Question 5

What safety precaution must be observed when adding water to a flooded lead-acid battery?

Accepted Answer

Add only distilled or deionized water and never add acid unless electrolyte has been physically spilled

Answer

Add water only while the battery is being discharged

Answer

Use tap water since mineral content improves electrolyte conductivity

Answer

Fill cells completely to the top of the battery case

Question 6

What is the function of the pinion gear and solenoid in a generator engine starter motor?

Accepted Answer

The solenoid engages the starter circuit and drives the pinion gear into mesh with the ring gear on the flywheel

Answer

The solenoid regulates charging voltage while the pinion limits cranking speed

Answer

The pinion converts AC to DC power while the solenoid controls field current

Answer

The solenoid disconnects the battery during starting while the pinion absorbs shock loads

Question 7

What does a battery's Reserve Capacity (RC) rating indicate?

Accepted Answer

The number of minutes a fully charged battery can supply 25 amps before voltage drops below 10.5V

Answer

The number of complete charge/discharge cycles the battery is rated for

Answer

The maximum current the battery can deliver for 10 seconds without damage

Answer

The percentage of capacity available after 6 months of storage at 77°F