Valve-regulated lead-acid batteries for heavy-duty cycling applications

The influence of various parameters on the cycle-life of valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA) batteries has been investigated. Experiments are performed to arrive at optimum design parameters for a specific application, namely, train lighting for passenger rail-cars. A combination of parameters which relate to paste mixing is investigated in order to maximize plate strength. Factors which relate to curing, inter-electrode spacing and compression ratio are also studied with a view to maximizing life. Accelerated life tests are carried out at 50°C and the results indicate that the optimized parameters yield a life in excess of 500 cycles.