Accumulators – General Information

Lead-Acid Batteries
Introduction
Lead-acid batteries are among the oldest and most widely used types of rechargeable batteries. They were invented by the French physicist Gaston Planté in 1859 and are still used today in many applications, mainly in the automotive industry and energy storage.

Basic Operation
Lead-acid batteries consist of two electrodes:
– Anode: lead dioxide (PbO₂)
– Cathode: metallic lead (Pb)
– Electrolyte: sulfuric acid solution (H₂SO₄)

During discharge, electrical energy is produced through a chemical reaction between the electrodes and the electrolyte. During charging, the reaction is reversed through an external supply of electricity.

Types of Lead-Acid Batteries

Flooded Type (FLA – Flooded Lead-Acid): They use liquid electrolyte and require maintenance (adding deionized water).

Sealed Type (VRLA – Valve-Regulated Lead-Acid):
– AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat): The electrolyte is absorbed in glass fibers.
– GEL: The electrolyte is in gel form.

Advantages
– Low production cost
– Reliable technology
– High current delivery capability (cranking power)
– Recyclable materials (lead and plastic)

Disadvantages
– Heavy weight and large volume
– Low energy density compared to newer technologies (e.g., lithium)
– Limited cycle life
– Environmental impact if not properly managed

Applications
– Car and truck batteries
– UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supplies)
– Photovoltaic systems
– Industrial vehicles (forklifts, lift trucks)
– Telecommunications

Environmental Aspects
The recycling of lead-acid batteries is crucial for environmental protection. Lead is a toxic metal and can cause severe health issues and soil and water contamination. Most countries have developed collection and recycling systems for such batteries.

Conclusions
Lead-acid batteries are a mature, economical, and reliable energy storage technology but face challenges regarding weight, lifespan, and environmental footprint. Proper recycling and management are essential for their sustainable use in the future.

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Types of Lead-Acid Batteries and Their Uses

Introduction
Lead-acid batteries are the oldest and most widely used type of rechargeable batteries. Despite their relatively low energy density, they are widely adopted due to their low cost and reliability.

Main Types of Lead-Acid Batteries

2.1 Flooded Lead-Acid (FLA)
Description: Contain liquid electrolyte (sulfuric acid). Require maintenance (water refilling).
Uses:
– Vehicle starting (starter batteries)
– UPS systems
– Off-grid photovoltaic systems

2.2 Sealed Lead-Acid (SLA)
Categories:

– AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat): Electrolyte absorbed in glass fiber mat.
Uses: UPS, electric vehicles (e.g., scooters, wheelchairs), security systems.

– GEL (Gelled Electrolyte): Electrolyte in gel form.
Uses: Photovoltaic systems, marine and RV applications, telecommunications equipment.

2.3 Industrial Types
– Tubular Plate Batteries: Designed for heavy cyclic use.
Uses: Forklifts, industrial installations, telecom stations.

Comparison of Types

Conclusions
The choice of the right lead-acid battery type depends on the application, budget, and maintenance requirements. Sealed types are safer and maintenance-free, while flooded types are more economical and suitable for simple applications.