Lead-Based
There are different designs of lead battery with an important choice to be made between flooded and valve regulated (VRLA). Both can be connected in large battery arrangements without sophisticated management systems.
Technology
Mainstream technologies
Flooded or ‘wet’ lead batteries: contain a liquid electrolyte that is free to move around in the battery encasement. When charged, the battery acid and lead plates react to store electricity.
Valve-Regulated Lead batteries (VRLA): commonly known as ‘sealed’ batteries, have an electrolyte immobilised – either by a gel (Gel batteries) or in an absorptive glass mat (AGM Batteries). The cells are closed but vented by a valve that allows the gas to escape if the internal pressure becomes too high.
Technical Data
Typical cell voltage
Cell voltage
Range is 1.8V – 2.1V
Usage
Applications
Lead-based technology is still the most widely used. It has numerous applications from back-up for uninterruptible power supplies and grid energy storage, traction power for forklifts through to auxiliary power in electric vehicles and for starting, lighting and ignition (SLI) in conventional combustion engine vehicles.
Advantages
Affordable, proven, safe and sustainable.
Differentiated from other battery technologies by a low cost per both kWh installed and kWh electricity throughput.