There are times when one is given information that is so staggering that one has to blink, rub one’s eyes and re-read the information as the content is utterly unbelievable. Word reached us recently via our recycling partners of batteries sent to them for recycling that have been fitted with a false bottom and contain a lump of granite.
There is no reason whatever to do this, because if the dimensions of the battery are correct, then the battery must be filled with lead plates and electrolyte to produce the stated capacity. If the box has a false bottom filled with granite – then it is impossible for the battery to have the stated capacity.
We enclose a couple of pictures showing one of these fake batteries, the false bottom and the lump of granite.
It is our understanding that these batteries have popped up in the UK and in the Netherlands. The problem is that innocent buyers of these fakes won’t have a clue that they’ve bought a dud until either the battery fails much earlier than expected or simply fails to perform to expectation.
Naturally we would suggest ensuring that one purchases products from a reliable source. Certainly in our industry there’s no such thing as a “cheap” battery. “Cheap” inevitably means compromised as the cost element in a battery is almost entirely down to the lead content. Less lead means less capacity. Beware imitations!!