What is the standard temperature used to correct specific gravity readings in most standard storage batteries?

The standard temperature used to correct specific gravity readings in most standard storage batteries is 80°F. This temperature is established as a reference point because the specific gravity of a liquid, such as the electrolyte solution in a battery, can vary with temperature. At 80°F, the density of the electrolyte is considered to be at a condition that allows for more accurate and consistent measurements.

Choosing this standard temperature helps in ensuring that maintenance and testing procedures yield results that are comparable, regardless of fluctuations in ambient temperatures during battery operation and testing. As a result, when readings are taken, they can be adjusted and interpreted accurately against this baseline.

If specific gravity readings are taken at temperatures significantly above or below this standard, adjustments will need to be made to account for temperature variations to reflect the battery’s actual state. This practice is crucial for reliable diagnostics and maintenance of storage batteries, emphasizing the importance of 80°F as the standard reference temperature.