What is the specific gravity range of a fully charged lead-acid battery?

The specific gravity of a fully charged lead-acid battery typically falls within the range of 1.275 to 1.300. This range indicates that the electrolyte, which is a mixture of sulfuric acid and water, is dense enough to provide a good state of charge and efficiency in the chemical reactions essential for the battery's operation.

Specific gravity readings in this range suggest that the battery has a sufficient concentration of sulfuric acid, enabling optimal chemical processes to store and discharge electrical energy effectively. A reading below this range may indicate that the battery is undercharged or has been affected by sulfation, while significantly higher readings could suggest overcharging or the presence of impurities in the electrolyte.

Understanding specific gravity is crucial for maintenance and performance evaluation of lead-acid batteries in aviation applications, where reliability is vital. This knowledge aids mechanics in diagnosing battery conditions and determining necessary maintenance actions to prolong battery life and ensure operational efficiency.