AGM VS GEL VS FLOODED VRLA batteries- Advantages and Disadvantages of them
27 Aug 2021
Gelled Electrolyte Advantages:
• Totally maintenance-free
• Air transportable
• Spill proof/ leak proof
• No corrosion
• Superior deep cycle life
• Installs upright or on side (side installation may lose about 10% capacity)
• Very low to no gassing (unless overcharged)
• Compatible with sensitive electronic equipment
• Superior shelf life
• Superior recharge ability (from 0% to 90% in 5-6 hours)
• No recharge current limitation @ 13.8 volts
• Rugged and vibration-resistant
• Very safe at sea with no chlorine gas in bilge (due to sulfuric acid and salt water mixing)
• Versatile: Starting, Deep Cycle, Stationary
• Operates in wet environments; even under 30 feet of water
• Will not freeze to –20°F/–30°C (if fully charged)
• Lowest cost-per-month (cost ÷ months of life)
• Lowest cost-per-cycle (cost ÷ life cycles)
Gelled Electrolyte Disadvantages:
• Higher initial cost
• Heavier weight
• Water cannot be replaced if continually overcharged
• Automatic temperature-sensing, voltage-regulated chargers must be used
• Charge voltage must be limited to extend life (13.8 to 14.1 volts maximum at 68°F)
AGM Advantages:
• Totally maintenance-free
• Air transportable
• Spill proof/ leak proof
• No corrosion
• Installs upright or on side
• Lower cost than gel cell batteries
• Compatible with sensitive electronic equipment
• Very low to no gassing (unless overcharged)
• Excellent for starting and stationary applications
• Superior for shorter duration/higher rate discharges
• Superior under extreme cold conditions when fully charged
• Superior shelf life
• Superior recharge ability (from 0% to 90% in 5-6 hours)
• Rugged and vibration-resistant
• Very safe at sea with no chlorine gas in bilge (due to sulfuric acid and salt water mixing)
• Operates in wet environments…even under 30 feet of water
AGM Disadvantages:
• Shorter cycle life than gel in very deep cycle applications
• Automatic temperature-sensing, voltage-regulated chargers must be used
• Water cannot be replaced if continually overcharged
• Charge voltage must be limited (14.4 to 14.6 volts maximum at 68°F)
Flooded Electrolyte Advantages:
• Lowest initial cost
• Higher cranking amps
• Water can be added (if accessible)
• Excellent for starting applications
• Tolerant of improper recharge voltage
• Certain designs are good for deep cycle applications
• Replacements readily available
• Good under extreme cold conditions when fully charged
Flooded Electrolyte Disadvantages:
• Spill able
• Operates upright only
• Shorter shelf life
• Fewer shipping options
• Cannot be installed near sensitive electronic equipment
• Watering may be required (if accessible)
So choose the required battery for your desired application after considering all the advantages and disadvantages of them.
