AGM Batteries

[alan]

I don't want to open a discussion on the choice of AGM over wet, Gel e.t.c. but would like to know if there is a need for a particular charging voltage for AGMs. I have searched on the web and have found some conflicting statements. My understanding is that they can be charged as if they were ordinary wet lead acid batteries but that for prolonged charging a "smart" 3 or four stage charger should be used.

Anyone have the definitive answer??
Thanks in advance.

Alan.

 

[npf1]

http://www.lifelinebatteries.com/mcharging_procedures.php has the instructions for Lifeline AGMs.

 

[alan]

Thanks a lot, npf1. That's pretty much what I have seen on other sites and seems to be the most informed information from respected manufacturers.

Alan.

 

[Talulah]

In other words you can charge as a normal battery but once fully charged don't leave the charger connected.

 

[Graham_Wright]

[ QUOTE ]
http://www.lifelinebatteries.com/mcharging_procedures.php has the instructions for Lifeline AGMs.

[/ QUOTE ]
Very helpful but;- thicky question;- what is equalising? (Describes how to do it but not what it is). /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

 

[alan]

Thanks for the link, I had already found it on my web searches.
From reading a lot in the last few days about batteries and charging: I understand that equalising is what is also known as de-sulphisation (??) and it is performed to "equalise" the layer of acid that is adjacent to the plate in an AGM battery. ..... but I could be wrong!!! The more I have read the more confused I have become because the terminology used by battery makers e.t.c. is not standard and for example the charging voltages recommended for AGM's depends on the battery manufacturer. However, I found Wikipedia pretty good and they give some generic voltages for float charging of wet/gel and AGM batteries.

Alan.

 

[mortehoe]

Equalising

Equalising in laymans terms is giving the battery (cells) a blast of voltage ~10% higher than the normal float or trickle charge for say 1/2 to 1 hr. This ensures that the cells are all equally charged, and in flooded batteries makes sure that the electrolyte is fully mixed by the gas bubbles. This does not apply to Gel or Gel type batteries.

 

[VicS]

Re: Equalising

Another site with plenty to read about battery maintenance is http://www.batteryfaq.org/

 

[alan]

Re: Equalising

Thanks, Vic. One of the better sites and some good info.

Alan.