Introduction to Sealed Battery
Sealed batteries, also known as maintenance-free batteries or valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA) batteries, are a type of lead-acid battery that does not require regular maintenance or water refilling.
Construction:
Sealed batteries are constructed similar to traditional lead-acid batteries, with lead plates and an electrolyte solution of sulfuric acid and water. However, instead of an open container, sealed batteries are sealed in a plastic or metal case, with a pressure-relief valve that allows for the escape of excess gas. There are two types of sealed batteries: absorbent glass mat (AGM) and gel batteries. In AGM batteries, a fiberglass mat between the lead plates absorbs the electrolyte, while in gel batteries, the electrolyte is suspended in a gel form.
Working:
Sealed batteries work by the same chemical reaction as traditional lead-acid batteries, where the lead plates react with the sulfuric acid to produce electrical energy. However, due to their sealed construction, they are able to recombine the gases produced during the charging process, which allows for the maintenance-free operation.
Applications
- Emergency Lighting: Sealed batteries are used in emergency lighting systems, such as those found in hospitals, hotels, and other public buildings, to provide backup power in case of a power outage.
- Alarm and Security Systems: Sealed batteries are used in alarm and security systems to provide backup power in case of a power outage or when the main power supply is disrupted.
- Telecommunications Equipment: Sealed batteries are used in telecommunication equipment, such as cell phone towers, to provide backup power in case of a power outage.
- Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS): Sealed batteries are used in backup power systems for computers, telecommunications equipment, and other critical systems to provide temporary power during a power outage.
- Solar Energy Storage: Sealed batteries are used to store excess energy from solar panels for later use when the energy demand is high.
- Electric Vehicles: Sealed batteries are used in electric vehicles, such as golf carts, scooters, and wheelchairs, to power the motors that move the vehicle.
- Medical Equipment: Sealed batteries are used in medical equipment, such as ventilators and infusion pumps, to provide backup power in case of a power outage.
- Marine and RV Applications: Sealed batteries are used in marine and RV applications to provide power for lighting, appliances, and other onboard systems.