Ever since Alessandro Volta invented the battery, the battery has played an important role in powering our electronic equipment. Batteries for decades were the main source of electricity before the advent of power grids, and are still the main source of electricity in remote areas.

Over time, improvements in battery technology have contributed greatly to technological progress. Laptops, mobile phones, small electronic devices, UPS that are an integral part of our everyday life would not have been possible without the contribution of electric batteries. Today they play a key role in the introduction of cleaner energy and the fight against climate change in cities through their use in electric cars.

The most common rechargeable power sources are VRLA AGM and technology batteries. They are found everywhere, from simple applications such as photovoltaics and alarms to critical loads for medical and industrial systems.

Some of the key features that are useful to know about this type of battery are listed below:

They have low internal resistance

The particularly low internal resistance allows AGM batteries to deliver high currents on demand, and have a long life even when used in deep discharge mode. This feature sets them apart from other categories, as it allows them to be fully recharged, even when discharging more than 50% of their charge. The deep discharge capability is due to the thick lead plates which are resistant to corrosion. They therefore stand out for their high strength and long service life.

It is closed type

Closed type batteries, once sealed, do not require maintenance. They remain sealed forever, with little or no human interference (e.g. need for external cleaning)

Supported by AGM technology

The acronym AGM, or Absorbed Glass Matt, indicates that this type of battery has the so-called borosilicate glass matt. The battery's electrolyte is contained within it, thus preventing the risk of leakage in the event of a breakage. Furthermore, between the lead plates of AGM batteries, there is a porous glass fibre material impregnated with a sulphuric acid solution. This results in the production of minimal gases during the chemical reaction, which are even recycled within the battery. They are therefore ideal for confined spaces or remote installations where regular monitoring is difficult.

The aforementioned plates are also compact and can withstand more vibration than other types. Compared to calcium batteries, VRLA batteries with AGM technology have the following advantages:

• Longer life cycle
• Greater security
• Greater resistance to deep discharge, vibration and high temperatures
• Greater resistance to overloading
• Greater resistance to corrosion
• Less discharge
• Full waterproofing

They are different from GEL batteries

It is worth mentioning that AGM batteries are often confused with GEL batteries. GEL batteries contain a silicon gel in which the electrolyte is enclosed. This allows electrons to flow between the plates, but prevents leakage in the event of battery breakage. This confusion occurs because of the many common characteristics. Both types are non spillable, both types offer deep discharge and can be used in almost any application. The difference in cost however makes AGM batteries by far the more tempting choice!

Support a huge range of applications and systems

AGM technology VRLA batteries are widely used, covering both simple and highly demanding needs. Indicatively, we find them in starter applications, cars, motorcycles, photovoltaics, alarms, electric toys, electric bicycles, wheelchairs, cash registers, wipers, medical machines and installations, etc.

Find out more about our VRLA AGM battery series here.