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

Flooded lead-acid batteries should have electrolyte levels inspected monthly or per the manufacturer's schedule since water is consumed during charging and evaporation, and low levels expose plates to air causing irreversible damage.

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 series adds their voltages together — two 12V batteries connected positive terminal to negative terminal produce a 24V supply while maintaining the same Ah capacity.

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

Sulfation occurs when lead sulfate crystals harden on battery plates during prolonged discharge or storage, reducing active plate material and permanently diminishing battery capacity and performance.

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-voltage float chargers maintain a fixed voltage (typically 13.5–13.8V for 12V VRLA batteries) and automatically reduce current as the battery approaches full charge, preventing overcharging during indefinite standby.

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

Only distilled or deionized water should be added to flooded batteries to avoid introducing minerals that contaminate the electrolyte; acid should only be replaced if electrolyte was physically lost through spillage.

(EGSA) Electrical Generating Systems Association Certified Practice Test

(EGSA) Electrical Generating Systems Association Certified Practice Test

EGSA Battery and Starting Systems 3