Are there any load testers that will adequately test my Hawker® ARMASAFE™ Plus 6TAGM battery?
The answer is…Yes, but remember from last issue…
p.solid {border-style: solid;}"To effectively perform a “mechanics” load test, it’s recommended that the load tester be capable of applying a load that is equal to one-half of the battery’s Cold Cranking Amps (CCAs). So, if a battery is rated at, say, 1000 CCAs, the load tester should be capable of applying a 500 amp load."
Theoretically, since the Hawker® ARMASAFE™ Plus battery is rated to provided a minimum of 1225 CCAs, it’s appropriate to use a load tester that can provide an amp load of 612 ½. However, per TB 9-6140-252-13 (dated 31 Jan 2012), a 550 amp load is considered sufficient when load testing the Hawker® ARMASAFE™ Plus…since technically…1100 CCAs is the minimum performance standard required by MIL-PRF 32143.
Most often, the load testers that can provide the necessary amp load to perform an adequate mechanic’s load test are bench top models vice handheld models. Most importantly though…check the load tester’s AMP rating!
That Hawker®and ODYSSEY® brand batteries (made by EnerSys®) have absorbed glass mat (AGM) material between the lead plates? The AGM material is like a sponge that holds all the electrolyte in the battery. As a result, the batteries can be placed on their side…or even upside down…and the electrolyte will not leak out!
Spring is here…time to get your battery maintenance in gear! We provide free on-site Battery Maintenance & Recovery Training (BMRT)…even if it’s raining. How can you get the technical training you need? Simply, contact your Hawker® FSR…indeed!