VRLA batteries with AGM technology: What you need to know

Ever since Alessandro Volta invented the battery, batteries (or accumulators) have played an important role in powering our electronic equipment. For decades, batteries were the main source of electrical energy before the advent of power grids, and they are still the main source of it in remote areas.

Over time, improvements in battery technology have contributed enormously to technological progress. Laptops, mobile phones, small electronic devices and UPS systems, which are an integral part of our daily lives, could not exist without electrical accumulators. Today, batteries play a leading role in establishing cleaner energy and fighting climate change in cities, through their use in electric cars.

The most common rechargeable sources of electrical energy are VRLA batteries with AGM technology. We find them everywhere, from simple applications such as solar (PV) systems and alarms to the critical loads of medical and industrial systems.

Some of the key characteristics worth knowing about this type of battery are listed below:

They have low internal resistance

Their particularly low internal resistance allows AGM batteries to deliver high currents on demand and to have a long service life even in deep-discharge use. This characteristic sets them apart from other categories, as it allows them to be fully recharged even after discharges of more than 50% of their charge. Their deep-discharge capability is due to thick lead plates that resist corrosion. They therefore stand out for their high durability and long service life.

They are sealed

Sealed batteries need no maintenance once they are sealed. They stay closed for good, with minimal or no human intervention (e.g., the need for external cleaning)

They use AGM technology

The acronym AGM, or Absorbent Glass Mat, indicates that this type of accumulator contains what is known as a borosilicate glass mat. The battery's electrolyte is held within it, which prevents the risk of leakage if the battery breaks. In addition, between the lead plates of AGM batteries there is a porous glass-fiber material soaked in a sulfuric acid solution. As a result, very little gas is produced during the chemical reaction, and this gas is recombined inside the battery. This makes them ideal for enclosed spaces or remote installations where regular monitoring is difficult.

The plates mentioned above are also solid and withstand more vibration than other types. Compared with calcium batteries, VRLA batteries with AGM technology offer the following advantages:

• Longer cycle life
• Greater safety
• Greater resistance to deep discharge, vibration and high temperatures
• Greater tolerance of overcharging
• Greater resistance to corrosion
• Lower self-discharge
• Fully sealed construction

They are different from GEL batteries

It is worth mentioning that AGM batteries are often confused with GEL batteries. GEL batteries contain a silica-based gel that holds the electrolyte. This allows electrons to flow between the plates, but prevents leakage if the battery breaks. The confusion arises because of the many characteristics they share. Both types are non-spillable, both offer deep discharge and can be used in almost any application. However, the difference in cost makes AGM batteries by far the more attractive option!

They support a huge range of applications and systems

VRLA batteries with AGM technology are widely used, covering both our simple and our most demanding needs. For example, we find them in engine-starting applications, cars, motorcycles, solar (PV) systems, alarms, electric toys, e-bikes, wheelchairs, cash registers, handheld vacuum cleaners, medical equipment and installations, etc.

Find out more about our company's VRLA AGM battery series here.