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In various power systems such as vehicles, solar panels, not limited to other devices, batteries are definitely one of the most important components. Among many types of batteries in the market, AGM vs Lead-Acid or AGM vs Flooded Battery is often the main comparison.
AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries are known for their durability and efficiency, while conventional or often called flooded batteries are more affordable and commonly used. Each has advantages and disadvantages that need to be considered before deciding which one is best.
In this article, we will take an in-depth look at AGM vs Flooded Battery, from the technology, advantages, disadvantages, to their use in various situations.
What are AGM and Flooded Batteries?
AGM vs Flooded Battery is a common comparison since they are the most commonly used battery types. Both have different technologies that affect performance, maintenance, and service life.
AGM Battery is a type of lead-acid battery that uses an absorbent glass mat to hold the electrolyte. This technology makes this battery maintenance-free, more durable, and has higher charging efficiency compared to the other conventional batteries.
While flooded battery or conventional lead-acid battery uses a liquid electrolyte that floods the lead plates inside. This type of battery is cheaper in terms of price but requires regular maintenance, for example the electrolyte water needs to be checked and refilled.
History of AGM vs Flooded Battery
Gaston Planté invented the lead-acid battery in 1859 and it became the first rechargeable energy storage technology. The earliest form of these batteries was flooded battery and it has been widely used in various applications.
AGM batteries then were developed in the 1980s as a solution to improve the efficiency and durability of lead-acid batteries and originally was designed for military and aircraft use due to its maintenance-free nature and greater resistance to vibration.
As time goes by, AGM became popular in modern vehicles, solar power systems, and UPS due to its advantages in charging efficiency and battery life cycle compared to flooded batteries.
How AGM vs Flooded Battery Works
Efficiency, maintenance, and durability are affected by the way batteries working mechanism.
Here is an explanation of how AGM Battery vs Flooded Battery (conventional battery) work.
AGM Battery
An absorbent glass mat to hold the electrolyte between the lead plates that is used in a lead-acid battery is the technology behind AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) Battery. This allows the electrolyte to remain stored in the glass fiber mat, rather than in liquid form as in conventional batteries.
How the AGM Battery works
- Minimal Maintenance
Since AGM Battery is a sealed battery, this kind of battery does not require refilling electrolyte water. - Electrolyte Storage
No liquid pooling inside the battery since the electrolyte is absorbed in the glass mat that sits between the lead plates. - Charging & Discharge Efficiency
Faster charging process and higher energy efficiency are the results of AGM Battery’s lower internal resistance due to its closed structure. - Chemical Reaction
An electric current is produced by the reaction between the electrolyte and the lead plates when the battery is used.
The main advantage of AGM vs Flooded Battery is its better resistance to vibration, extreme temperatures, and electrolyte leakage.
Flooded Battery
The most common type of lead-acid battery is flooded battery. This kind of battery uses a liquid electrolyte that floods the lead plates inside. These batteries work on the principle of a chemical reaction between lead and sulfuric acid to generate electricity.
How flooded battery works:
- Periodic Maintenance
The electrolyte water must be checked and replenished periodically. This is implemented to maintain optimal battery performance since liquid in flooded battery evaporates. - Liquid Electrolyte
A mixture of water and sulfuric acid which is called liquid electrolyte is completely inundates the lead plates. - Chemical Process
When the battery is used, the chemical reaction between the lead plates and the electrolyte produces electrical energy. - Gas Release
Hydrogen and oxygen gases are released during the charging process which makes it necessary to ventilate thus that the gases are not trapped.
Flooded batteries are cheaper than AGM Battery, but they require regular maintenance and have a higher risk of leakage or corrosion due to the nature of the liquid electrolyte.
Proper Application and Use of AGM vs Flooded Battery
Depending on the power requirements, usage environment, and acceptable level of maintenance both AGM Battery and Flooded Battery have their own applications.
Since batteries are an important component in vehicles, whether cars, trucks, or motorcycles, thus the choice between AGM vs Flooded Battery depends on the type of vehicle and power requirements.
AGM Battery for Modern & Premium Vehicles
Vehicles which have Start-Stop System feature in them use AGM Battery because this kind of battery is able to handle more frequent charge and discharge cycles. Not only that, AGM Battery is also more resistant to vibration, requires no maintenance and is more durable, making it suitable for off-road vehicles, motor sports, and high performance cars.
Flooded Battery for Standard Vehicles
Conventional vehicles with standard power requirements generally uses flooded battery. Flooded battery is suitable for ordinary cars and motorcycles that do not require large power or frequent charging cycles.
AGM vs Flooded Battery: Which One to Choose?
Several factors such as price, performance, power requirements, and usage environment are important when choosing between AGM vs Flooded Battery.
AGM Batteries are more expensive than flooded batties but has different efficiency, durability, and easier to use due to their sealed and maintenance-free design. Meanwhile, flooded batteries need maintenance regularly. For example refilling electrolyte water as well as terminal cleaning and even users need to know how to replace battery terminal, but they are affordable in terms of price and also easier to find.
In terms of performance, AGM Batteries are better because they have faster charging process and have ability to handle more frequent charge and discharge cycles without losing capacity. On the other hand, flooded battery are more suitable for conventional vehicles which does not have advanced electronic features and are still reliable as long as regular maintenance is performed.
Not only technical factor that influence the battery selection, environmental factors also play a role.
AGM batteries are resistant to shock, vibration, and also extreme weather conditions. This ability making them ideal for off-road vehicles, boats (read: Boat Battery Manufacturer), or even motor sports. Also, due to their sealed design, AGMs are safer to use indoors without the risk of leakage or release of harmful gases. Flooded batteries, on the other hand, require proper ventilation and are more susceptible to corrosion and liquid spills.
Conclusion
AGM vs Flooded Battery? They have their own advantages, depending on the needs of the user. Flooded Battery is cheaper and suitable for standard use, such as conventional vehicles which do not require large amounts of power. Meanwhile, they require regular maintenance, such as checking and refilling electrolyte water, and are prone to corrosion and battery leaking.
On the other hand, AGM Battery is maintenance-free, offers higher efficiency as well as longer durability. Modern vehicles with Start-Stop System are suitable for using AGM Battery. Because of its durability, AGM Battery is suitable to be used in extreme environments that require resistance to vibration and high temperatures. Although this type of battery is more expensive in terms of price, AGM Battery can be a long-term investment as they have a longer battery life cycle and do not require additional maintenance.
If a battery that is cheap and ready to do maintenance is needed, then Flooded Battery is a good choice. However, if a battery that is more durable, practical, and efficient is needed, then AGM Battery is the best choice.
Who We Are
With over 17 years of experience, TYCORUN is a leading lithium battery supplier committed to driving innovation and development of battery technology. Our diverse product range includes two/three/four-wheeled power batteries, energy storage systems, one stop battery swap systems, inverters, and electric motorcycles. These high-quality solutions are trusted in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
We provide customized battery services, from cells to complete systems, and holds certifications like ISO9001, CE, TUV, and UL. TYCORUN has developed solid-state batteries for better performance and uses advanced BMS algorithms for safety and longer life.
TYCORUN’s global reach is strengthened through our strategic partnership with Ganfeng, a top-five Chinese battery manufacturer. This collaboration offers us professional technology and production support. We fully manage Ganfeng’s overseas battery business and have collaborated to mass sell swappable, power, and energy storage batteries to Thailand, Dubai, Egypt, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, etc.
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