If suddenly your car battery is not working properly, and the electrolyte level is normal, the first thing you need to measure its density.And for this every motorist should know how to use a hydrometer.
What is a hydrometer and how it works
hydrometer - a device for determining the density of liquids.Its principle of operation is based on the famous Archimedes' principle, open in III BCand according to which a body floating in the liquid, the buoyancy effect, the value of which is equal to the weight of the fluid displaced by the body of data.And how to use a hydrometer to measure the density of the liquid, known to mankind IV-V century BC(it is believed that it was then that he invented).
Hydrometers come in various forms: it all depends on the density of a fluid to be measured.The most practical value for the average motorist has a car hydrometer for measuring the density of both the electrolyte and the coolant.It can be purchased at any store that sells auto parts, or market.Structurally
automotive hydrometer is a conventional cylindrical glass tube (flask) with an acid electrolyte, whose density is to be measured, and a hermetically sealed glass float.At the bottom of the float is the load, and at the top - the scale on which, in fact, determined by the density of the electrolyte.How to use a hydrometer?It's very simple!With the help of a blower into the phone dialed the electrolyte.After a while, when the fluid in the tube rest, and the float will float freely in it, it is necessary to visually determine the density at the intersection of the scale to the level of the electrolyte.The density of the electrolyte of the battery shown in the operation depends on the specific operating conditions and within the 1.20 - 1.30 kg / cm3.The density measurement should be carried out at a temperature of 18-22 degrees.Since the density of the electrolyte is directly linked to the value of the temperature at which the measurement is made, you must use special table to make corrections, to determine its actual density.
Observe safety measures
When measuring the density of the electrolyte is not only important to know how to use a hydrometer, but also to comply with security measures.All work should be carried out in protective gloves, goggles, shoes and appropriate clothing.In no event shall not be allowed to enter the electrolyte in the open areas of the body and eyes.All the action from the batteries should be carried out in a warm ventilated area, as in the process of charging is released toxic gas.
If you get acid in your eyes or on the skin must be a place of chemical burns, rinse with water.In no case do not try to neutralize the acid, which fell on the body (eg, soda).This will only exacerbate the situation.Then, as soon as possible to apply to the medical institution.
when handling antifreeze is also necessary obligatory safety measures.Radiator cap can be opened only after full cooling of coolant, to avoid its release and as a result of burns.
After measuring the density of the hydrometer should be thoroughly rinsed under running water to remove residual acid final or coolant.Under this condition a hydrometer to measure the density of the electrolyte (antifreeze) will serve you more than a dozen years.
