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Lead-acid batteries have many different designs for different applications. Some are designed to cycle, others to deliver high currents for short periods. Cycle life, for deep cycle applications differ in the actual design life of the batteries
Invented in 1859 by French physician Gaston Plante, lead acid was the first rechargeable battery made for commercial use. The lead-acid battery is an electrical storage device that uses a reversible chemical reaction to store energy. The battery has a capacity of six or more volts, enough to power a vehicle or boat. These batteries are rechargeable batteries made of lead plates situated in a 'bath' of sulfuric acid within a plastic casing. They are used in every country in world, and can commonly be recognized as "car batteries".
There are two types of sealed lead acid (SLA) battery also known as value regulated lead acid (VRLA), Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) and GEL.
In AGM sealed batteries, an electrolyte paste is absorbed between the plates and a fibre glass mat. AGM technology is cheaper to produce than GEL and accounts for the vast majority of SLA sales. Applications include general standby such as Fire, EWIS & security panels and motor vehicles. In GEL sealed batteries, a silica additive causes the electrolyte liquid to stiffen. GEL technology provides less instant energy than AGM but gives greater long term energy delivery. Applications include mobility scooters and golf carts.
Care and Maintenance of Lead Acid Batteries:
All lead acid batteries consist of flat lead plates immersed in a pool of electrolyte. Regular water addition is required for most types of lead acid batteries although low-maintenance types come with excess electrolyte calculated to compensate for water loss during a normal lifetime.
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