12 V Battery Conversion to HHO Generator

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the conversion of a 12 Volt car battery into an HHO generator for the purpose of achieving electrolysis of water. Participants explore the feasibility of using a battery as a vessel for this process, including safety concerns and the mechanics of gas generation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes using a drained car battery, filled with water and baking soda, to generate hydrogen and oxygen through electrolysis.
  • Another participant questions the safety of generating gases in a battery, warning about the explosive potential of the gas mixture.
  • Concerns are raised about the interleaved design of battery plates, which may lead to uncontrolled mixing of hydrogen and oxygen gases.
  • A participant discusses the method of capturing gas through tubes and venting it for ignition, expressing a desire to achieve a controlled burn.
  • There is a query about whether reversing the polarity of the battery connection would enhance the electrolysis reaction.
  • Some participants share personal experiences with gas generation, emphasizing the dangers involved in such experiments.
  • One participant suggests that the arrangement of the battery plates would not allow for effective separation of gases, potentially leading to dangerous outcomes.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express multiple competing views regarding the safety and feasibility of using a car battery for HHO generation. There is no consensus on the best approach to achieve the desired electrolysis without risking an explosive reaction.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight limitations related to the design of lead-acid batteries, including the interleaved plates that may cause gas mixing. Safety concerns regarding the ignition of gas mixtures and the effectiveness of different electrolytic solutions are also noted.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to individuals exploring DIY electrolysis projects, those curious about alternative energy generation methods, and participants in safety-conscious experimental setups involving gas generation.

  • #31
If weight is not a problem, then your idea should work. and I would suspect that you don't have to change out the acid, if the batteries are placed in a safe location.
I had a battery explode on me when I used one to weld. I was lucky.
but you might have to drill out all of the caps and pull through some oversized flex pvc
with heated ends which will not be able to be pulled through the hole.
such a unit might be ok to weld. however you must use bubble units to stop flash back
to the batteries from the torch and from each battery so you don't lose them all.
 
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  • #32


Itll explode, don't do it
 
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