How to Use LEAD ACIDE BATTERY: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The lead acid battery is a rechargeable energy storage device that uses lead dioxide (PbO₂) as the positive electrode, sponge lead (Pb) as the negative electrode, and sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) as the electrolyte. It is one of the oldest and most widely used battery technologies due to its reliability, cost-effectiveness, and ability to deliver high surge currents.

• Automotive Applications: Used as starter batteries in cars, motorcycles, and trucks.
• Backup Power Systems: Commonly found in uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) and emergency lighting systems.
• Renewable Energy Storage: Utilized in solar and wind energy systems for energy storage.
• Industrial Applications: Used in forklifts, golf carts, and other heavy-duty equipment.

Below are the key technical details of a typical lead acid battery. Note that specific values may vary depending on the model and manufacturer.

Lead acid batteries typically have two terminals:

1. Connecting the Battery:

   • Identify the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals of the battery.
   • Use appropriately rated wires and connectors to ensure safe operation.
   • Connect the positive terminal to the positive side of the load or circuit and the negative terminal to the negative side.

2. Charging the Battery:

   • Use a compatible lead acid battery charger with the correct voltage and current ratings.
   • Ensure the charging voltage does not exceed 2.45V per cell to prevent overcharging.
   • Monitor the charging process to avoid overheating or overcharging.

3. Discharging the Battery:

   • Avoid discharging the battery below 1.75V per cell to prevent damage.
   • Use a load that matches the battery's capacity to ensure efficient operation.

• Ventilation: Lead acid batteries release hydrogen gas during charging. Ensure proper ventilation to prevent gas buildup.
• Temperature Management: Avoid exposing the battery to extreme temperatures, as this can reduce its lifespan.
• Maintenance: For flooded lead acid batteries, regularly check and top up the electrolyte level with distilled water.
• Polarity: Always double-check the polarity before connecting the battery to a circuit to avoid damage.

To power an Arduino UNO using a lead acid battery, follow these steps:

1. Use a 12V lead acid battery and a DC-DC step-down converter to regulate the voltage to 5V.
2. Connect the output of the step-down converter to the Arduino's 5V and GND pins.

// Example code to blink an LED using an Arduino UNO powered by a lead acid battery

void setup() {
  pinMode(13, OUTPUT); // Set pin 13 as an output for the LED
}

void loop() {
  digitalWrite(13, HIGH); // Turn the LED on
  delay(1000);            // Wait for 1 second
  digitalWrite(13, LOW);  // Turn the LED off
  delay(1000);            // Wait for 1 second
}

1. Battery Not Charging:

   • Cause: Faulty charger, damaged battery, or incorrect charging voltage.
   • Solution: Check the charger output voltage and connections. Replace the battery if it is damaged.

2. Battery Drains Quickly:

   • Cause: Over-discharge, sulfation, or aging battery.
   • Solution: Avoid deep discharges and use a desulfation charger if applicable. Replace the battery if it is old.

3. Overheating During Charging:

   • Cause: Overcharging or high ambient temperature.
   • Solution: Use a charger with temperature compensation and ensure proper ventilation.

4. Corrosion on Terminals:

   • Cause: Acid leakage or poor maintenance.
   • Solution: Clean the terminals with a baking soda solution and apply a protective coating.

Q1: Can I use a lead acid battery indoors?
A1: Yes, but ensure proper ventilation to prevent hydrogen gas buildup during charging.

Q2: How do I store a lead acid battery?
A2: Store the battery in a cool, dry place and keep it fully charged to prevent sulfation.

Q3: Can I connect multiple lead acid batteries together?
A3: Yes, you can connect them in series to increase voltage or in parallel to increase capacity. Ensure all batteries are of the same type and capacity.

Q4: How do I know when a lead acid battery is fully charged?
A4: A fully charged lead acid battery typically has a voltage of 2.45V per cell and minimal current draw from the charger.