Lets talk battery chemistry and how they differ
Warning: Proper Storage of Batteries is Crucial
To ensure the longevity and safety of your batteries, it is imperative to store them correctly when not in use. Please consult your owner's manual for detailed instructions on how to care for your batteries.
Remember, proper storage practices can significantly extend the lifespan of your batteries and help maintain their optimal performance.
Batteries play a crucial role in powering OGT trailers. The different types of batteries that can be installed in your trailer are Lead Acid, Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM), and Lithium batteries. Each of these options has distinct characteristics, which affect the way you use them in your trailer. In this article, we'll give a general overview of the differences between these battery types.
Lithium batteries allow greater Depth of Discharge (DoD) (read more here) and therefore more energy.
An easy way to think about this is, if your Lead Acid or AGM battery lasts you 3 days, the lithium for the same use case will last 6 days.
1. Flooded Lead Acid Batteries (FLA)
Lead acid batteries are one of the oldest and most established forms of rechargeable batteries. They consist of lead plates immersed in a sulfuric acid electrolyte solution.
Advantages:
- Affordability: Lead acid batteries are relatively inexpensive to produce, making them a cost-effective choice for many applications.
- Familiarity: They have been around for a long time, so they are well-understood and widely available.
- High Discharge Current: Lead acid batteries can provide high surge currents, which is crucial for applications like starting car engines.
Disadvantages:
- Low Energy Density: Lead acid batteries have lower energy density compared to newer technologies like lithium batteries, which means they are bulkier and heavier for the same energy capacity.
- Limited Cycle Life: They tend to have a shorter lifespan and a lower number of charge-discharge cycles compared to AGM and lithium batteries.
- Maintenance: Lead acid batteries require regular maintenance, including topping up with distilled water and checking electrolyte levels.
2 . AGM Batteries (Absorbent Glass Mat)
AGM batteries are a type of lead acid battery that use a fiberglass mat to hold the electrolyte. This design allows the electrolyte to be absorbed into the mat, making AGM batteries spill-proof.
Advantages:
- Maintenance-Free: Unlike traditional lead acid batteries, AGM batteries do not require regular maintenance or electrolyte checks.
- Improved Vibration Resistance: The construction of AGM batteries makes them more resistant to vibration and shock, making them suitable for applications like RVs and boats.
- Faster Charging: AGM batteries generally have a faster charging rate compared to standard lead acid batteries.
Disadvantages:
- Cost: AGM batteries tend to be more expensive than traditional lead acid batteries, although they are generally more cost-effective over their lifespan due to reduced maintenance requirements.
- Slightly Lower Energy Density: AGM batteries still have lower energy density compared to lithium batteries.
3. Lithium Batteries
Lithium batteries represent a newer and highly efficient technology that has gained widespread popularity in recent years. They are available in various chemistries, including lithium-ion (Li-ion) and lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4).
Advantages:
- High Energy Density: Lithium batteries offer a significantly higher energy density compared to lead acid and AGM batteries, making them lighter and more compact for the same energy capacity.
- Long Cycle Life: Lithium batteries can endure a greater number of charge-discharge cycles compared to lead acid and AGM batteries.
- Low Self-Discharge Rate: They have a lower self-discharge rate, meaning they retain their charge for longer periods when not in use.
Disadvantages:
- Cost: Lithium batteries tend to be more expensive upfront compared to lead acid options, although this cost difference is decreasing as technology advances.
- Temperature Sensitivity: Lithium batteries do not charge well in extreme cold temperatures, and will need to be heated in these conditions which can affect their overall efficiency.
Conclusion
Choosing the right battery type depends on your specific needs and budget. Lead acid batteries remain a reliable and cost-effective choice for many applications. AGM batteries offer improved maintenance and durability, while lithium batteries provide high energy density and a longer lifespan, particularly in demanding and portable applications. Understanding the differences between these battery types empowers consumers to make informed decisions based on their unique requirements.