What is an AGM Battery?

JUN.26,2023

The same principles used in the construction of traditional SLA (sealed lead-acid) batteries apply to AGM batteries. The AGM separator, an ultra-thin glass mat that “absorbs” the electrolyte and renders the battery spill-proof, is what makes the difference. A VRLA battery is another name for a sealed lead-acid battery.

Despite having its roots in the early 1980s, sealed AGM battery technology underwent further development for its initial usage in military aircraft, where power, dependability, safety, and weight were given top priority.

Valve Regulated Sealed Lead-Acid Battery

AGM batteries, sometimes referred to as Valve Regulated Sealed Lead-Acid Battery or Valve Regulated Lead Acid batteries, are well-known for being made by Concorde. The AGM technology was first developed for commercial, non-military use by Concorde.

AGM batteries have a special design that gives them a greater voltage input that makes them perfect for use in a variety of vehicles, including trucks, RVs, golf carts, motor sport vehicles, and boats.

For instance, an AGM automobile battery has many advantages, including high specific power, minimal self-discharge, strong electrical dependability, and long cycle life.

One of the numerous advantages

One of the numerous advantages of using this battery is its endurance, which means it won’t need to be charged frequently. However, the way you charge your AGM battery will have a big impact on how long it lasts. Race cars, RVs, and even boats are all converting to AGM batteries due to their many advantages over flooded batteries.

AGM batteries are also built to endure for a long period, possibly several years, depending on how well you take care of them. AGM batteries are also easier to maintain than flooded batteries.

AGM Batteries: How Do They Operate?

When the AGM battery’s positive and negative lead and lead oxide plates come into contact with the electrolyte, a solution of sulfuric acid and water, electrons are released.

While the plates are submerged in battery acid, an ultra-fine fiberglass mat is layered between them, compressed, and then welded into place.

Tiny glass fibers absorb the electrolyte combination and keep the active lead elements in evenly distributed contact. In addition, an AGM battery generates a total of 12 volts through a series circuit of six cells.

You Should Never Partially Charge AGM Batteries

All absorbent glass mat batteries must be completely charged to 100% in order to maintain their capacity. AGM batteries gradually lose the ability to charge to their full capacity when they are only partially charged. Your AGM battery may eventually stop charging further if you only ever charge it to 60% capacity. The battery’s lifespan is consequently shortened.

Tips for Storing an AGM Battery

Ensure that your battery is kept in a cool, dry space with adequate ventilation. If your battery is left discharged for an extended amount of time, sulfation will happen. When storing your AGM battery for extended periods of time, make sure you recharge it.

Charge Them at the Appropriate Temperature

Charge batteries while the outside temperature is between 0 and 40 degrees Celsius to increase battery life. Lead-acid batteries can be harmed when charged at temperatures between 0° and 40°. You should avoid charging AGM batteries in extremely hot or cold temperatures because they are constructed of lead acid.

Use only the chargers that the manufacturer has advised.

A large charger with the capacity to match a large AGM battery is unquestionably necessary. The AGM batteries and chargers’ capacities are often expressed in amperes. You can identify which charger is ideal for your AGM battery by looking at the recommended amps on the battery.

AGM batteries require a particular kind of charger. This indicates that there will be a specific set of recommended chargers with sufficient voltage for each type of AGM.

Sulfation Prevention

Sulfation has an impact on the battery’s capacity to maintain a charge. Whenever a battery is not fully charged, sulfation develops and persists on the battery plates. To avoid it, keep your AGM battery charged throughout use and before storage. Additionally, use the AGM battery’s recommended charger to lessen the effects of sulfation.

Overcharging The AGM Battery Is Not Recommended

To efficiently charge your AGM battery, determine the correct voltage according to the manufacturer’s instructions.Please don’t charge your AGM battery using a regular fuel generator. Your AGM battery’s structural elements could be ruined by overcharging. Similar to overcharging, undercharging could shorten the life of an AGM battery.

AGM batteries can last longer when properly charged, stored, and protected from sulfation. The manufacturer’s charger ensures that the AGM battery obtains the correct voltage without being undercharged or overheated.

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