The battery

T

TimR

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Zep said:
It depends on what you mean by cycling. They generally use a float voltage and low current and vary this to induce a shallow cycle. But a deeper cycle is good every few months. Particularly if the temperature is not well controlled.
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Thats got me wondering what is meant by "deep(er) cycle", and whether the battery on a car, under general ( & regular ) use undergoes such discharge cycling?
 
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Zep

Zep

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TimR said:
Thats got me wondering what is meant by "deeper cycle" because in general use, the car doesnt use the bettery for much does it ? Alternators presumably run lights and the other 'heavy demand draws' once the engine is running...? Not that I question the logic of greater vs lesser discharging. I know Li Ion batteries have 'peculiarities' that I am only now learning about so accept the chemistry is as you tell it...
If the main task is to start the car, it seems fairly "float cycle" ...?
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You start the car it takes a fair chunk out of the battery. Or you listen to the radio while waiting outside the shops for a significant other. Or you spend some time in a secluded car park with the interior lights on. Things like that.
 
Zep

Zep

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You are right, batteries have a limited number cycles. It is about depth of discharge, keeping a battery (or in the case of a UPS system a string of batteries) on float for extended periods can also be detrimental, but shallow cycling (I.e. intermittent use) keeps them in better condition. In sealed batteries it also means that water is recombined with hydrogen to replenish electrolyte levels. To this end, some UPS systems will periodically discharge the batteries to maintain condition.

I’m not saying starting your car deep cycles the battery, but it does introduce a level of discharge that requires a charge to replenish.
 
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