AGM Batteries Cape Town
AGM batteries (Absorbed Glass Mat) are a newer type of sealed lead-acid that uses absorbed glass mats between the plates. It is sealed, maintenance-free and the plates are rigidly mounted to withstand extensive shock and vibration.
AGM batteries are constructed differently than the traditional flooded battery. Nearly all AGM batteries are recombinant, meaning they can recombine 99% of the oxygen and hydrogen. There is almost no water loss.
In AGM batteries there is a thin ultra-fine fibreglass mat sandwiched between the plates that are saturated with battery acid to about 95% of what they can hold. This mat is then packed in between the plates and slightly compressed, then welded/soldered in place. Because the plates and mats are packed fairly tight, they are almost immune to vibration.
Advantages of AGM batteries:
- Maintenance-free – When the battery is charging, hydrogen would be absorbed and reversed to the electrolyte by plates. It doesn’t need to refill water and balanced charge, which makes maintenance-free.
- Flexible installation – AGM separator keep electrolyte absorbed in glass mat and still. The battery can be used or positioned in any orientation.
- Extremely safe – When excessive gas production by inappropriate charging occurs, safety valves will automatically emit the gas to prevent battery cracked.
- Long standby life, Better cycle performance – Anti-corrosion lead-calcium alloy plate provides a longer float charging life. AGM separator can trap electrolyte and prevent active materials on positive plate dropping at the same time. Moreover, it gives better deep discharge cycle performance.
- Longer shelf life – Special lead-calcium alloy plates make lower self-discharge for longer shelf life.
- High rate performance – Low inner resistance allows higher discharging and charging current for better performance in a high rate application.
What Are they Designed For?
Many AGM batteries, however, are primarily designed for dual-purpose or standby applications like emergency backup, and not deep cycling. But Trojan has recently introduced the Reliant AGM with C-Max Technology line.
The manufacturer said the line is specifically designed for deep cycling applications through its paste formula, its durable polymer case that provides higher battery cell compression, and a flame arrestor for each cell for maximum safety.
Disadvantages of AGM Batteries
- Low energy density – poor weight-to-energy ratio limits use to stationary and wheeled applications.
- Cannot be stored in a discharged condition – the cell voltage should never drop below 2.10V.
- Allows only a limited number of full discharge cycles – well suited for standby applications that require only occasional deep discharges.
- Lead content and electrolyte make the battery environmentally unfriendly.
- Transportation restrictions on flooded lead acid – there are environmental concerns regarding spillage.
- Thermal runaway can occur if improperly charged.
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AGM Batteries In The Following Areas:
Langebaan – Vredenburg – Saldanha – Hopefield – St Helena Bay – Velddrif – Jacobs Bay – Moorreesburg – Yzerfontein – Cape Town
