SLI battery (starting, lighting, and ignition) has a wide range of use and application. There are different types of SLI batteries on the market, the price of which varies according to size, weight, electrical characteristics, brand, usage and technology. Different kinds of vehicles have different SLI systems and there is always a right battery for that. Expensive or low-cost, sophisticated or conventional, here are the types of SLI batteries and their common applications.
Table Showing the Voltage Readings of Types of SLI Batteries
Image Source: Search Auto Parts Website
Wet/Flooded
These are the batteries with holes and caps at the top. Because of having a sulfuric acid solution that reacts with the lead plates during the discharging/charging process, gassing occurs which lowers the solution level. This requires refilling of distilled water. This type is the most generally used in automotive applications. If you’re looking for inexpensive but a little bit high maintenance battery, then this is for you.
Maintenance-Free
These are the sealed-type of batteries – no holes, no caps at the top, and therefore leak-proof. There are two sub-types of this. First is the Valve Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA) Gelled type which puts electrolytes into gel form. One excellent property of VRLA is that it can be charged and discharged more often than any other battery type. This is the ideal battery for sensitive electronic equipment. Second is the Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) which uses a fine highly-porous micro-fibre glass mat that absorbs the electrolytes thus keeping the fluid level in control. This type can be recharged faster than conventional batteries and its high current characteristics make it a perfect fit for high power applications like aerobatic aircrafts and vehicles used in auto racing.
Dry-Charged
This battery, also known as “reserve battery”, has its electrolyte solution added only when it is put into use. It can be stored for up to 18 months without electrolyte. Charging is required right after the electrolyte is added. This kind of SLI battery has longer shelf life. The application ranges from motorcycles up to weaponry systems.
Deep Cycle
When continuous power is needed for a longer period of time, deep cycle battery is the right solution. This is the type of battery that has a greater depth of discharge and therefore appropriate for sailboats, recreational vehicles, and even for traffic lights and UPS systems.
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