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AGM batteries
AGM batteries (also known as absorbent glass mat batteries) are a type of valve-regulated lead acid battery (VRLA) that use a Boron Silicate fibreglass mat to store the electrolyte that powers the battery.
The electrolyte is absorbed by the mat like a sponge - this form of construction means that the acid electrolyte is more readily available to the electrodes, which allows the AGM battery to achieve higher charge and discharge rates and utilise deep cycling with ease.
AGM batteries are safer to use than regular automotive batteries of the standard lead acid type, as the electrolyte acid is trapped by the glass mat and so poses less of a risk when the battery is handled.
AGM battery usage
As the electrolyte in AGM batteries is immobilised by the mat, this makes them ideally suited for applications in which the battery is subjected to a great deal of movement, for example in boats and some types of aircraft.
Applications in which AMG batteries may be used include:
- Boat batteries.
- Golf cart batteries.
- Jet ski batteries.
- Motorcycle batteries.
AMG batteries are a versatile, high-performance power source that can outperform conventional sealed lead acid batteries in many different situations. Although they are more expensive to produce than standard 12 volt batteries, they lose less energy when not in use, and have a working life of around 10 years.
Due to their robust construction and the fact that they are completely sealed, AGM batteries are a popular choice in extreme environments and applications that require a degree of toughness. As their performance does not degrade at low temperatures, AGM batteries are routinely employed in Arctic remote sensing stations: a testament to their stability and reliability.
