In the recent past, the world has undergone many technological changes, with people becoming more innovative. This has led to the establishment of more functional and durable products than traditional ones. The AGM (absorbed glass mat) battery is an improved battery designed in the early 80s to replace the flooded lead-acid battery. The AGM battery requires little to no matienence, and it does not spill.
On the other hand, a Flooded lead-acid battery is the kind of battery that has been widely used for over one and a half-century. They are also referred to as the wet cell battery for the liquid electrolyte found inside. The battery has been used for various applications, which has served until an alternative of AGM was found.
Below are some differences between an AGM battery and a lead-acid battery.
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The lead-acid battery contains an electrolyte inside that emits gasses. Therefore, the battery needs to be in a well-aerated and open area for easy maintenance and emission of gases. On the other hand, the AGM battery is maintenance-free and emits no gases. This makes it best suited for vehicles that use batteries in trunks and beneath the seats.
The lead-acid battery is prone to vibrations and forceful movements. Therefore, they are delicate and can easily break when exposed to such conditions for a long time. Thus, one must be cautious when mounting them to minimize these effects. On the other hand, AGM is made up of glass mats and battery plates that make the structure unbreakable. Furthermore, they make the battery stronger and resistant to shock and vibration.
Internal resistance in the battery results in its voltage output. Therefore, the lower the opposition, the higher the output voltage. The AGM batteries have a resistance of as low as two percent, thus having a high power voltage. On the other hand, flooded lead-acid batteries have a resistance of between ten to fifteen percent. This, therefore, gives the AGM an upper hand as more potent than other lead acid batteries.
The lower internal resistance in the AGM gives them an increased rate of charging compared to the lead-acid batteries. The AGM is five times faster in charging than the flooded lead-acid batteries. Furthermore, the AGM responds to ample power demands meeting the demand easily than any other lead-acid batteries.
The AGM has a lower self-discharge rate that lasts longer than the flooded lead-acid batteries. The AGM has a lifespan of up to seven years if well maintained, compared to other batteries that last for three to five years. Therefore, the AGMs last longer and will serve you better than any other batteries.
From the differences outlined above, it is evident that the advancement of AGM (absorbed glass mat) battery has come with a lot of benefits as compared to the past when people only used one brand of batteries. Therefore, it is recommended to go for an AGM battery when possible as opposed to lead-acid batteries.
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When it comes to lead acid batteries, two popular options are flooded (sometimes called conventional) batteries and AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries. While both serve the purpose of energy storage, they have distinct differences in terms of construction, maintenance, performance, and applications.
In this blog post, we will explore the key differences between flooded batteries and AGM batteries to help you make an informed choice for your specific needs.
What is the difference between flooded batteries and AGM batteries?
Flooded Batteries
Flooded batteries, also known as wet cell batteries, have a traditional design consisting of lead plates submerged in a liquid electrolyte solution. The plates are separated by separators, and the electrolyte level needs to be monitored and periodically topped with distilled water. They typically require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Maintenance activities include checking and maintaining proper fluid levels by adding distilled water as needed, monitoring electrolyte-specific gravity, and periodic equalization charging to address electrolyte stratification.
They require a specific charging regimen to maintain optimal performance. The charging rate for flooded batteries is typically expressed as a percentage of the battery’s capacity (C-rate). The recommended charging rate for flooded batteries is generally less than 10% of their capacity. For example, a 100Ah flooded battery should be charged at a rate of 10A or less.
Charging at a slower rate helps ensure a complete and thorough charge, allowing the electrolyte to mix properly and minimizing the risk of stratification. To learn more about C-rates visit battery universities’ article, “What is C-rate?”.
The bulk charge voltage of a 12V flooded lead-acid battery is typically 14.2 volts. This voltage is commonly used during the bulk charging stage to quickly replenish the battery’s charge. During bulk charging, a constant current is applied to the battery to rapidly restore its energy.
The higher voltage helps facilitate the electrochemical reactions within the battery, allowing for efficient charging. However, it’s important to note that the specific bulk voltage can vary depending on the battery manufacturer, design, and temperature conditions.
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The float charge voltage is typically 13.4 volts. The float voltage is the voltage at which a fully charged battery is maintained during a standby or maintenance mode. During the float charging stage, a lower voltage is applied to the battery compared to the bulk charging stage.
This voltage level is intended to keep the battery at a fully charged state without overcharging or creating excessive gassing. It compensates for the self-discharge of the battery and any small loads connected to it, ensuring that the battery remains ready for use.
AGM Batteries
AGM batteries feature a sealed design with a fiberglass mat soaked in electrolyte. The mat is placed between the lead plates, effectively immobilizing the electrolyte. AGM batteries do not require the addition of water or electrolyte checks, as the design eliminates the need for maintenance associated with fluid levels.
They have a different charging profile compared to flooded batteries. AGM batteries generally have a more controlled charging approach. The recommended charging rate for AGM batteries is typically around 10-25% of their capacity. Their unique glass mat separator design can be charged at higher rates than flooded batteries due to reduced internal resistance and better charge acceptance. The glass mat separator tightly holds the electrolyte in place, preventing spillage and excessive gassing, allowing for faster charging without damaging the battery. For more information on AGM technology visit our blog post, “The Complete Guide to AGM Batteries”.
The bulk charge voltage of a 12V AGM lead acid battery is typically 14.7 volts, and the float charge is typically 13.8 volts.
When should a flooded or AGM battery be used?
The choice between AGM or flooded batteries should be determined by the intended application, budget, and charging control.
Assess the specific needs of your application. Flooded batteries are the optimal choice for applications where cost is a primary concern, and regular maintenance can be performed. They can handle higher discharge rates and provide a higher surge current than AGM batteries. This makes them suitable for applications that require high-power output, such as automotive starting applications, off-grid renewable energy systems, and heavy-duty industrial equipment.
In comparison, AGM batteries are ideal for sealed and maintenance-free setups. AGM batteries have a lower self-discharge rate than flooded batteries. They can retain their charge for longer periods when not in use, which can be advantageous for applications with infrequent or seasonal use. Additionally, the glass mat separator makes them highly resistant to vibrations and shocks. They are commonly used in applications such as deep-cycle storage for RVs and boats, backup power systems, renewable energy storage, and UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) systems.
Budgetary constraints should also be evaluated. Flooded batteries need periodic maintenance, including checking and topping up electrolyte levels, equalizing charges, and monitoring specific gravity (the ratio of the density of the electrolyte to the density of water). This maintenance requirement adds to the overall cost and effort of using flooded batteries. On the other hand, AGM batteries may have a higher upfront cost, but they offer convenience and durability, potentially reducing long-term costs.
Lastly, the charging control available in your system should be examined. AGM batteries may require more sophisticated charging control to prevent overcharging, while flooded batteries can tolerate higher charging voltages. We recommend our guide to charging sealed lead acid batteries.
Are AGM Batteries safer than flooded?
Flooded batteries can emit gases, including hydrogen and oxygen, during charging and discharging. Adequate ventilation is necessary to prevent the buildup of potentially hazardous gases. Additionally, the presence of liquid electrolyte in flooded batteries poses a risk of leakage and corrosion if not properly handled or maintained.
AGM batteries on the other hand, are designed with recombination capabilities, meaning they recombine the gases produced during charging. This recombination process significantly reduces the emission of hazardous gases, making AGM batteries safer to use in enclosed spaces. The sealed design of AGM batteries also eliminates the risk of electrolyte leakage and corrosion.
Conclusion
Flooded batteries and AGM batteries are two distinct types of lead acid batteries, each with its own set of advantages and considerations. Flooded batteries require regular maintenance and fluid level checks, while AGM batteries are maintenance-free. Flooded batteries can handle higher discharge rates. AGM batteries provide convenience, safety, and better resistance to vibration and shock. Understanding these differences will help you select the appropriate battery type based on your application requirements, maintenance preferences, and safety considerations.
For more information, please visit What is an AGM battery?.