Valve regulated gel-batteries for stand-by-applications

Valve regulated Pb-acid batteries for standby power application are known today in two technologies, the gel and the AGM system. Both systems are distinguished from conventional batteries by the use of solid electrolytes, to enable oxygen recombination. Because gel batteries have a lower recombination rate than AGM types, float current and heat generation of gel cells is also lower than that for AGM cells. According to the low float current, overheating up to thermal runaway is not noticed at gel batteries in float applications. Properties of industrial gel batteries in gas extrication and float life are discussed. A strong demand of the user is the possibility to recognize the state of age of valve regulated batteries without discharging, which cannot be solved at the moment