FAQ Orals (Batteries)

What Are The Two Main Types Of Battery Commonly Used On Board Ships?
Lead Acid And Alkaline.
 
What Are The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Alkaline Batteries?
The Advantages Of Alkaline Batteries Are That They Retain Charge On Open Circuit And Even If Discharged, It Can Be Left For Long Periods Without Adverse Effect.
The Disadvantages Are That They Require A Greater Number Of Cells To Produce A Particular Voltage.
They Are Also More Expensive Than Lead Acid Batteries.
 
What Are Batteries Used For On-Board Ships?
They Are Used For Supplying Essential Power To:  Radio Equipment, Telephone Exchange, Fire Detection, General Alarm Circuits, Etc.  These Systems Are Often Supplied From Two Sets Of Batteries Worked On A Regular Charge/discharge Cycle.
They Are Also Used As Emergency Supplies, I.e. For Emergency Generator Start-up And Emergency Lighting.  Being Used In This Case In A "stand-by" Role To Give Power When Main Supplies Fail.
 
How Do You Ensure That Batteries Are Always In Good Working Order?
Where Lead Acid Batteries Are Used, They Require A Constant Trickle Charge, But For Both Types Of Battery A Regular Charge Up Is Necessary. 
Check State Of Battery Using A Hydrometer;  Lead Acid – S G 1270®1285   Alkaline Is 1190 But
S B For Alkaline Batteries Does Not Change Much During Charge Or Discharge.
Ensure Cells Are Covered With Electrolyte, If Not, Top Up With Distilled Water.
Keep Batteries Dry And Clean
Terminals Should Be Smeared With Petroleum Jelly.
 
When Working On Batteries, What Precautions Should Be Taken?
Ensure The Space Is Well Ventilated, Do Not Smoke Or Use Naked Lights And Also Wear Protective Clothing Such As Apron, Gloves And Face Shield.
 
What Are The Disadvantages And Advantages Of A Lead Acid Battery?
The Advantages Of A Lead Acid Battery Are;  They Require Fewer Cells To Achieve Particular Voltage And Are Reasonably Priced.
The Disadvantages Are That They Require Regular Attention To Keep Fully Charged, Always Require A Trickle Charge And They Discharge On Open Circuit.
 
What Gas Is Given Off By Batteries While Charging?
Hydrogen