Choosing a battery can be a tough task for those unfamiliar with the battery technology. A lot of improvements have been made in developing efficient batteries over time. Here you can explore the available types of 12V Lead Acid Batteries in the market. This article also helps you understand its features, lifespan and recharging techniques of the battery.
Types of 12V lead acid batteries
The 12V Batteries are divided into two primary types, Lead Acid Batteries and Lithium Ion Batteries. Lead Acid Batteries have been in use for quite a long time whereas Lithium Ion Batteries are the newest technology. Below are some of the types of 12V Lead Acid Batteries.
Sealed valve-regulated lead acid batteries
Also known as VRLA Batteries, they are regarded as the safest type of batteries to use as they do not gas or spill. They are completely sealed off for life and need little to no maintenance throughout their lifespan of 2-8 years. There is a valve provided for the safe evolution of O2 and H2 gases at the time of charging.
Flooded lead acid batteries
They are the most common type of 12V Lead Acid Batteries. It is the cheapest among all and may last longer if maintained properly. Lead plates are suspended in a solution of Sulfuric Acid and the electrolytes have free movement in the section. The water level should be monitored from time to time to avoid the battery from drying up and to prevent it from leaking acid. They are also vulnerable to gassing and release Hydrogen Sulfide if overcharged. They must be installed in an upright position to avoid gassing and leakage. The maintenance of such batteries needs to be done every 3-6 months.
Gel 12V lead acid batteries
Gel 12V lead acid batteries are considered a sub-type of sealed batteries. They don’t require regular maintenance as they are sealed. They too have lead plates suspended in the liquid solution. But unlike flooded batteries, the solution in this one is silica based and thicker. They work quite efficiently in high temperatures and are not suitable for rapid charging and take time to recharge. Gel 12V lead acid batteries are a bit more expensive than the other types. The life span for such types of batteries is 2-5 years.
AGM 12V lead acid batteries
Absorbent Glass Mat technology-based batteries are a sub-type of sealed batteries as well. The recharging is the most efficient in this kind of battery because of the lower internal resistance. They are maintenance-free and work neatly in most temperatures. The life span of this kind of battery is 5-7 years.
Ensuring safety while using lead acid batteries
There are many dangers involved while handling Lead Acid Batteries. Now you can have a look at a few precautions which can ensure your safety while recharging and handling the batteries.
- Wear a face shield: This prevents your face from getting burned from the acidic fumes released while recharging the battery.
- Wear rubber gloves: These ensure your safety from electrical shock as well as acid burns. Yes! Acid does not tear through the rubber gloves.
- Wear an apron or a PPE kit: This will ensure that your clothes and body are not harmed by acid corrosion.
- Keep metals away from batteries: Remove all kinds of metallic jewellery from your body when you are dealing with batteries. Contact of materials like metal with lead acid batteries can cause short circuits.
- Keep a fire extinguisher handy while working with lead-acid batteries.
- Keep a neutralising solution ready in case acid is spilt from the battery.
- Install eye and body wash stations: These will help you wash your eyes and body in case of acid contact.
What are the dangers involved in working with lead acid batteries?
There are some risks associated with batteries and their use. This will help you be extra careful while dealing with batteries.
- Acid burns
- Acidic and poisonous fume inhalation
- Electric shock
- Short circuit
- Crushing
- Lead exposure
Buy 12V lead acid batteries online at L&T-SuFin
Even though Lithium-Ion Batteries have taken the upper hand in the current industrial market, traditional Lead Acid Batteries have still not gone out of fashion. If you are planning to buy a 12V Lead Acid Battery, this information will help you choose the right one. We also offer all types of 12V Lead Acid Batteries on our website L&T-SuFin at affordable prices from trusted brands. Checkout the range now!