How to use a hydrometer to measure the density of electrolyte

If suddenly a rechargeable battery of yourthe car is not working properly, and the electrolyte level is within normal limits, 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 does it work?

A hydrometer is a device designed fordetermination of the density of the liquid. The principle of his work is based on the famous law of Archimedes, discovered in III BC. and according to which a buoyancy force acts on the body floating in the liquid, the value of which is equal to the weight of the fluid displaced by the given body. And how to use a hydrometer to measure the density of a liquid is known to mankind from the 4th-5th century AD. (it is believed that it was then that he was invented).

Areometers are of different types: it all depends on the density of what fluid needs to be measured. The most practical value for the average car enthusiast is the automobile's hydrometer, designed to measure the density of both the electrolyte and the cooling liquid. It can be purchased at any store selling auto parts, or on the market.

Structurally the automobile hydrometer representsa usual cylindrical glass tube (flask) with an acid electrolyte, the density of which must be measured, and a hermetically sealed glass float. In the lower part of the float there is a load, and in the upper part there is a scale along which, actually, the density of the electrolyte is determined. How to use a hydrometer? Yes, it's very simple! With the aid of a rubber bulb, an electrolyte is drawn into the tube. After a while, when the liquid in the tube calms down, and the float floats freely in it, you need to visually determine the density at the intersection of the scale with the level of electrolyte. The density of the electrolyte of the battery pack, brought into operation, depends on the specific operating conditions and is in the range 1.20 - 1.30 kg / cm³. Density measurement should be performed whentemperature of 18-22 degrees. Since the density of the electrolyte is directly related to the value of the temperature at which this measurement is made, it is necessary to make correction using a special table to determine its real density.

Observe the safety measures

When measuring the density of electrolyte, it is important not toonly to know how to use the hydrometer, but also to comply with security measures. All work should be carried out in protective gloves, glasses, appropriate clothing and shoes. Do not allow the electrolyte to enter the body and eyes. All actions with batteries must be carried out in a warm ventilated room, because during the charging process, toxic gas is released.

If acid gets into your eyes or skinit is necessary to rinse the place of chemical burn with water. In no case should you try to neutralize the acid that has fallen on the body (for example, soda). This will only exacerbate the situation. Then it is necessary as soon as possible to apply to a medical institution.

When working with antifreeze is also necessarymandatory observance of security measures. The radiator cap can only be opened after the coolant has completely cooled down, so that it does not eject and, as a result, get burned.

After measuring the density, the hydrometer is necessaryRinse thoroughly in running water until the final removal of acid residues or coolant. If this condition is met, the hydrometer for measuring the density of the electrolyte (antifreeze) will serve you more than a dozen years.

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