Introduction
Internal resistance (IR) is a lesser-known but powerful parameter for assessing battery efficiency and condition. It influences charge acceptance, power delivery, and heat generation.
Keywords: lead-acid battery internal resistance, battery efficiency, battery diagnostics
What Is Internal Resistance?
It represents the opposition within a battery to the flow of electric current. A lower IR means better performance and higher efficiency.
Why Internal Resistance Matters
- Higher IR = More Heat: Reduces energy efficiency.
- Indicator of Aging: IR increases with corrosion and sulfation.
- Predictive Maintenance: Regular IR testing can prevent unexpected failures.
Measuring Internal Resistance
Use battery analyzers or impedance meters to measure it under standardized conditions. Record trends over time rather than single values.
Conclusion
Monitoring internal resistance offers a window into the long-term health of your lead-acid battery fleet — a key part of preventive maintenance.
