Development of a VRLA battery for high temperature applications

A hot, dry desert climate provides some of the worst environmental conditions in which to operate valve regulated lead acid (VRLA) batteries. In an effort to increase battery life in uncontrolled, high temperature environments, Johnson Controls Battery Group, Inc. (JCBGI) has developed a field and lab test program to investigate the effect of several key design parameters on battery life. This investigation primarily focuses on developing improved product life of current absorbent glass mat (AGM) technology product. The goals of this project are to develop a robust design which meets an acceptable and realistic float life in high temperature environments without sacrificing discharge capacity. The design criteria were based on developing value added enhancements to current product designs and manufacturing capabilities to produce a high heat resistant VRLA product