How to choose AGM Battery？ - BRAVA

1. They are spill-proof

Unlike the traditional lead-acid batteries that freely flood their electrodes, AGM batteries have glass mats that prevent this. Additionally, it is the function of these glass mats to avoid spillage. Rather than absorbing the electrolyte, the glass mats work by holding the electrolyte in place, preventing it from spilling over, even when the battery is placed in odd positions.

2. They have a high-power output.

Because of the way that they are designed, the AGM batteries have minimal internal resistance. This, therefore, enables them to provide sufficient bursts of power when necessary, such as when one needs to start a battery. Due to this feature, these batteries respond better to loading than any other battery on the market.

3. They have a short charging time.

AGM batteries, compared to flooded batteries, charge quickly. When compared to flooded batteries of a similar capacity, the charging rate can reach five times faster with the same power source.

4. They have a longer lifespan

AGM batteries have a longer lifespan than traditional flooded batteries. Moreover, not only do they serve for a more extended period when they perform the same tasks, but they also last longer when they are not in active use. This is because self-discharging is minimized in these batteries, unlike other types of batteries, which is a huge problem. This ensures that one does not have to keep charging them after an extended period of inactivity.

5. They are durable.

These AGM batteries were originally designed to serve the aircraft industry. This means that they have a sturdy design, one that can handle conditions of intense vibrations, just like those in military and commercial aircraft. Because of this property, they are a favorite for high-end motorcycle riders and race car drivers. The sandwich construction method adopted in their design ensures that their internal components do not fall apart. Moreover, they are invulnerable to the subsequent wear and tear that may result from frequent and continuous vibrations. Furthermore, they can withstand extreme temperature variations.

6. They are unlikely to build up sulfation

Sulfation is the property of lead-acid batteries, where there is a gradual accumulation of lead sulfate crystals in the cells. In most cases, it is the cause of failure in lead-acid batteries. Sulfation mostly occurs when the battery is not fully charged, and thus the crystals continuously build up on the plates. When this process goes out of hand, it prevents the efficient conversion of chemical to electrical energy. Therefore, for other types of lead-acid batteries, it is essential to charge them every six months to prevent sulfation. However, in AGM batteries, sulfation is significantly reduced. Therefore, they can be stored for extended periods without needing a recharge.

Despite their many advantages, AGM batteries, just like other lead-acid batteries, also have their disadvantages. These include:

1. High production cost

Unlike the flooded batteries, AGM batteries have a higher production and manufacturing cost. However, they are still cheaper to produce than gel type batteries. Even though the cost of manufacturing these batteries has reduced since their introduction into the market in the 80s, it is still generally higher when compared to other battery types in the market. This, therefore, make them slightly expensive for use in some devices.

2. Energy issues

While these AGM batteries have a high-power output, they have a low specific energy. Generally, it is a necessity for batteries that are required to run for a long time under a moderate load to have a high specific load. This means that these batteries cannot be used on several devices.

3. Reduced capacity over time

Though AGM batteries keep a charge for a longer time than other batteries, they gradually reduce their charging capacity over time. This is unlike gel batteries that have an advantage in this sector because of their excellent performance dome.

4. They are sensitive to overcharging

These AGM batteries, compared to flooded batteries, have a low tolerance to overcharging and high voltages. If they are subjected to these conditions, it shortens their life span.

No matter the make and model, vehicles use either an AGM battery or a deep cycle battery, but what’s the difference between the two?

While the most common type is the deep cycle or flooded lead acid battery, In this article, we’ll be reading how these battery lineups stack against each other and related information to help you choose the most workable option for your vehicle.

Difference Between AGM And Deep Cycle Batteries

The Absorbent glass mat or AGM batteries are an improved version of the traditional deep cycle or lead acid batteries. Besides getting familiar with the differences, you’ll surely learn the similarities as we scroll through the text.

1. Working Mechanism

The elemental composition of both batteries is the same as they have identical electrolyte liquids made of sulfuric acid and water and lead plates for the chemical reaction to occur. Oxygen and hydrogen gases are produced by-products during the reaction.

However, their working mechanism still has some differences. While the lead acid battery vents out the gases, AGM batteries don’t produce many gases because of the unavailability of free-flowing electrolytes.

While no hydrogen is generated, the chemical reaction in the battery does produce oxygen that is reabsorbed at the negative plate.

• Flooded Lead Acid Battery

It contains lead plates immersed in electrolytes. The gaseous by-products are vented out, resulting in water loss. Therefore, the electrolyte solution depletes over time and needs to be replenished regularly.  As a general rule of thumb, the evaporated electrolyte liquid levels can be replenished by adding distilled water.

• AGM Battery

Besides having the same lead plates and electrolyte liquid, these AGM deep cycle batteries have fiberglass mats placed between the plates. These mats keep the liquid suspended and prevent it from free-flowing inside the battery.

AGM batteries are sealed lead acid batteries that produce gases recombined with the electrolyte solution. If excess gases are made, there’s a vent to release the gases and lower the internal pressure.

2. Durability And Shock Resistance

The AGM battery has a better build quality and is more durable than the deep cycle battery. The fiberglass mats sandwiched in the lead plates are snugged in, making the battery shock and vibration-resistant.

This durability and resistance make the AGM battery a top pick in motorsports. Deep cycle batteries, on the other hand, can get damaged if they are not mounted securely.