AGM
In last few years another type of battery technology is coming to the market. Similar to the Gel cell batteries. But instead of having an electrolyte in a gelatin form, the electrolyte is absorbed into a very fine glass mat and is never free to slush around. The absorber glass mat (AGM) separator provides ideal wicking characteristics for electrolyte retention.This structure which reassembles sandwitch allows uniform distribution of the electrolyte over the plates, and reduces the chance of battery damage caused by vibration and jarring.
These batteries are sealed, so they can be placed in any position. They also do not need watering, they don’t produce any gas, and they do not corrode; therefore, they are maintenance free. AGM batteries have an extremely low electrical resistance, and they deliver much higher power efficiency than gel cell and wet lead acid batteries. They have higher full charge-discharge cycles than gel cell batteries, and can tolerate overcharge. These batteries perform very well in extreme temperature conditions and have a very low rate of self-discharge. They are UL listed, which will please the electrical inspectors and insurance companies.
The drawback:
- The price, which is almost the same as the gel cell.
These are the best batteries you can buy for your wheel chair.
PLUS: No maintenance. Can’t spill or leak.Shock resistant.Minimal gasses released when charging.Low self-discharge rate (3% per month at 77’F).Approved for air travel.
MINUS: Highest cost. Susceptible to overcharging. New technology.
