MK Battery Manual

9
NOTE: Before reviewing this section, be sure you understand the difference between gel, AGM, and flooded batteries.
Answers to the Most Frequently Asked Questions
How do we justify the premium price of
VRLA batteries to those unfamiliar
with this type of battery?
Simply review the advantages, features and benefits, performance,
and impressive life cycle results. Based upon this and the lowest
cost-per-month or duty cycle you and/or your customer should
have no trouble choosing VRLA batteries.
However, please remember that these batteries are not for
everyone or every application. Always be aware of the charging
considerations. (See pages 11 & 12.)
What are the advantages and
disadvantages of the different types
of battery designs?
Gelled Electrolyte Advantages:
• Totally maintenance-free
• Air transportable
• Spillproof/leakproof
• 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 rechargeability
(from 0% to 90% in 3
1
⁄2 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)
Absorbed Electrolyte Advantages:
• Totally maintenance-free
• Air transportable
• Spillproof/leakproof
• 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 rechargeability
(from 0% to 90% in 3
1
⁄2 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
Absorbed Electrolyte 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:
• Spillable
• Operates upright only
• Shorter shelf life
• Fewer shipping options
• Cannot be installed near sensitive electronic equipment
• Watering may be required (if accessible)