|
| » » |
|
GEL vs. AGM Sealed Batteries
AGM (absorbed glass mat) is a special design glass mat designed to wick the
battery electrolyte between the battery plates. AGM batteries contain only
enough liquid to keep the mat wet with the electrolyte and if the battery is
broken no free liquid is available to leak out.
Gel Cell batteries contain a silica type gel that the battery electrolyte is
suspended in, this thick paste like material allows electrons to flow
between plates but will not leak from the battery if the case is broken.
More often than not an AGM Batteries are mistakenly identified as a Gel Cell
Batteries. Both batteries have similar traits; such as being non spillable,
deep cycle, may be mounted in any position, low self discharge, safe for use
in limited ventilation areas, and may be transported via Air or Ground
safely without special handling.
AGM Batteries outsell Gel Cell by at least a 100 to 1. AGM is preferred when
a high burst of amps may be required. In most cases recharge can be
accomplished by using a good quality standard battery charger or engine
alternator. The life expectancy; measured as cycle life or years remains
excellent in most AGM batteries if the batteries are not discharged more
than 60% between recharge. There are some AGM batteries that offer excellent
80% deep cycle abilities.
Gel Cell Batteries are typically a bit more costly and do not offer the same
power capacity as do the same physical size AGM battery. The Gel Cell excels
in slow discharge rates and slightly higher ambient operating temperatures.
One big issue with Gel Batteries that must be addressing is the CHARGE
PROFILE. Gel Cell Batteries must be recharged correctly or the battery will
suffer premature failure. The battery charger being used to recharge the
battery(s) must be designed or adjustable for Gel Cell Batteries. If you are
using an alternator to recharge a true Gel Cell a special regulator must be
installed. |
 |
|
|
|
Solar Modules
Batteries
