Corrosion can take a toll on aircraft batteries. If left unchecked, it can restrict the flow of current. In some cases, aircraft batteries may fail to hold a charge if they are severely corroded. The good news is that you can protect aircraft batteries from corrosion by following a few simple tips.
Clean the Terminals
Regularly cleaning the terminals will protect aircraft batteries from corrosion. Like with automotive batteries, aircraft batteries have a pair of post-like contacts that are used to create connections to electrical equipment. Known as terminals, they consist of a positive contact and a negative contact.
The terminals on aircraft batteries can develop corrosion. This is typically the result of acids leaking out of the aircraft batteries. As the acids accumulate around the terminals, they’ll encourage corrosion. After disconnecting an aircraft battery, you can clean the terminals using baking soda and water.
Store Aircraft Sheltered Facility
Storing aircraft in a sheltered or otherwise covered facility can protect the batteries from corrosion. Moisture is a catalyst for corrosion. When exposed to moisture, aircraft and their respective components may corrode. It paves the way for oxidation, which leads to corrosion.
By storing your aircraft in a sheltered facility, you can keep it dry. Your aircraft won’t be directly exposed to the rain and humidity, so it will be better protected against corrosion.
Wash Off Sand
If your aircraft has been exposed, you should wash it off in a timely manner. Many airports use sand on their runways during the winter. It’s an alternative to salt. Sand helps to increase traction so that aircraft can take off and land more easily.
Sand is gentler on aircraft than salt, but it can still cause damage while also increasing the risk of corrosion. Therefore, you should clean your aircraft if it has been exposed to sand.
Apply a Battery Protectant
There are products available to protect aircraft batteries from corrosion. Known as battery protectants, they are designed to create a protective layer over battery connections like terminals.
You can apply a battery protectant to the terminals on an aircraft battery. It will essentially seal the terminals so that moisture can’t reach them. Aircraft battery terminals are made of a conductive metal so that current can easily travel through them. With their metal construction, though, they are susceptible to corrosion, especially if the battery begins to leak its acid. A battery protectant will seal the terminals and protect them from corrosion.
