Charging SLA batteries correctly can maximize your battery’s life cycle. By doing that, you are not only cutting off costs, but you’re also protecting the environment and benefiting your battery at its highest potential. There are several charging techniques to consider: constant voltage charging, constant current charging, taper current charging and two-stage constant voltage charging.
Learn more on how to charge sealed lead acid batteries.
Probably the hardest part in maximising your SLA’s life is charging it. Dependable performance and long service life are also highly influenced by correct battery charging.
Constant Voltage Charging
Is probably the best method to do it. It is also the most common method used for SLA batteries. During this procedure, the battery’s individual cells will split and equalise the energy between them. Constant voltage charging will charge at a high rate, while still maintain the battery fully charged without damage.
Constant Current Charging
Is also an option when it comes to charging your SLA. This method is best used when charging previously stored batteries or for equalizing cell capacities. In this case, one cannot determine when and if the battery has reached a full-charged state and, in some cases, excessive overcharge may occur.
Taper current charging
Though sometimes effective, may shorten the battery’s service life and damage your SLA, due to power voltage fluctuations. However, it works on a simple mechanism and its low cost may be factors to consider when choosing a method of charging.
Two-Stage Constant Voltage Charging
Is recommended only from time to time, especially for rapidly charging SLA batteries in a short period of time, while maintaining them in a fully charged standby condition.
Fast Charging has reached an impressive evolution due to technological progress and it is safe to use. Additionally, it provides extra features like battery test and recovery or automatic maintenance.
While charging your SLA battery, you should try to avoid overcharging, as it can lead to permanent damage (too much water consumption, corrosion etc.). Undercharging leads to sulfate (sulfation) on the plates, reducing performance and battery failure. Remember to charge your SLA battery once it has consumed more than 50% of its rated capacity and after or during storage time for more than 30 days.