Did you know that lead acid batteries were Invented in the 1850s? Lead acid batteries were the first rechargeable batteries meant for commercial use.
Even today, you can barely find a cost-effective alternative to it. Whether a golf cart, a wheelchair, or a UPS system, a lead-acid battery helps to run such machines smoothly.
In fact, it is an ideal rechargeable battery type you can use in applications that require high-load currents. The battery is widely used in different vehicles and commercial appliances.
Two types of lead-acid batteries are available: sealed lead-acid batteries and AGM batteries. Sealed lead-acid (SLA) batteries are classified into two types- Small sealed lead-acid and larger valve-regulated lead-acid (VLVA) batteries.
Sealed acid batteries are used in emergency lighting, wheelchairs, healthcare sectors, etc. You can use AGM batteries in motorcycles, micro-hybrid cars, RVs and marine vehicles that require some cycling.
But why are lead-acid batteries used so widely? Is there any notable advantage of these batteries? Yes, they have certain benefits.
In this article, we will discuss such benefits in detail, safety measures for its use, and also the factors to consider while buying lead-acid batteries.
The Benefits of Using Lead-Acid Battery
Despite having other alternatives, people prefer using lead-acid batteries in many cases. The major perks of using this battery are:
Cost-effective
Lead-acid batteries, unlike other rechargeable batteries, are lower in cost. You can use it in applications where newer battery chemistries can be costly. One of the reasons for this low cost is its simple manufacturing process.
High self-discharge current
The self-discharge for this battery is about 40% per year. On the other hand, nickel-cadmium type self-discharges the same amount in three months. Due to its low self-discharge, lead-acid batteries can store charge for up to 2 years.
No requirement for cell-wise BMS
Lithium-ion batteries can be used in particular conditions. Hence, BMS or battery management system is necessary for it. It monitors the battery when it gets overcharged.
Lead-acid batteries do not need them. When you overcharge these batteries, they use the surplus energy to electrolyse water into Hydrogen and Oxygen. Thus, it equalises all blocks or cells. The highest charged ones will go into that mode and sit there while the others reach there.
Good performance in extreme temperatures
A lead-acid battery works well in both high and low temperatures. The operating temperature ranges from -40 degrees F to 120 degrees F. Anyways, for extreme temperature cases, you should use batteries specifically designed for difficult applications.
Reliable and smooth technology
The technology used in these batteries is mature. If used correctly, a lead-acid battery can last long, providing reliable service.
Different types of Lead Acid Batteries: Benefits and Limitations
Based on the platforms on which lead-acid batteries are available, the types are-
- Tubular lead acid battery
- Flat-plate lead acid battery
- Gel lead-acid battery
Tubular lead acid battery:
The benefits of these batteries are:
- longer operational life
- ideal for heavy-duty applications
- highly functional in different conditions
- low maintenance
- long standby life
The limitation of the batteries is their higher initial cost.
Flat-plate lead acid battery:
The benefits of these batteries are:
- cheaper than tubular type
- faster rate of charging
- ideal for areas with frequent and minimal power cut
These batteries’ limitation is that they don’t have as long a lifespan as tubular batteries.
Gel lead acid battery:
The benefits of these batteries are:
- longer lifespan in extreme weather conditions
- high rate performance
- longer shelf life
- better cycle performance
- flexible installation
- maintenance free
The limitations are:
- the slow rate of charging
- water cannot be refilled once overcharged
- hot temperature can make the gel hard and shrink in the plate
How to Use a Lead-Acid Battery Safely
You have learned the benefits. Now, you may be interested in using a lead-acid battery ASAP. But, before you buy it, you should learn more details.
First, you must know how to use the battery safely. Let’s remember the points below.
- Make sure to keep the battery vent caps securely in the proper place.
- Recharge or store the batteries in a well-ventilated area. That area should be away from open flames or any sparks.
- Post signs of “Flammable – No Smoking” in lead-acid battery storage and charging places.
- Wear acid-resistant goggles or face shields and gloves when handling lead-acid batteries.
- Keep damaged batteries in properly labelled and acid-resistant secondary containment areas.
Things to Consider While buying Lead-Acid Batteries
Only learning the benefits is not enough.
If you want the desired result with your lead-acid battery, you should remember some other factors too. Let’s see what factors you must remember while buying it.
- Lead-acid batteries are ideal for short-term uses. So, buying for a long-term solution may not be a wise decision.
- These batteries carry a high risk of fire and explosion. So, use proper safety precautions.
- Read the specifications of your application carefully before buying a lead acid battery for it. Sometimes, storage battery requirements vary from application to application.
- The performance of a lead battery can suffer when the charge decreases.
- You must dispose of it carefully as it has corrosive compounds that harm the environment.
Wrapping it Up
Looking at the benefits, buying a quality lead-acid battery is a wise decision. Whether you buy AGM or sealed lead-acid batteries, they can benefit you in many ways.
But you must not forget the limitations as well. Its poor weight-to-energy ratio, slow charging, and limited cycle life may restrict its use in some cases. Also, don’t forget to follow safety instructions while using the battery. While buying a lead-acid battery, you should never compromise on its quality. A low-quality battery can cause serious hazards. L&T-SuFin offers high-quality lead-acid batteries and many other industrial products on its site, along with financial and logistic support to make your buying easier. Visit it today!