Failure modes of valve-regulated lead/acid batteries in different applications

Failure modes of valve-regulated lead/acid batteries are discussed and methods are suggested to overcome the problems. Many of the failures are associated with the positive plate, i.e., grid corrosion, and softening or sulfation of the active mass. Other failures include drying out, thermal runaway, and corrosion at the negative grid/top-bar connection. This work does not give a complete list of all failures that can occur, but it shows a summary of experiences gained from the practical use of valve-regulated batteries in different applications.