Charging antimony-free VRLA batteries without float
Here is a proposed much lower float current method to charge non-antimony batteries. Supposedly better than traditional float. Low current float for AGM
Forum Discussion
HiTech wrote:
I have been floating mine to manufacturer spec when temp is close to 77, and using the PWM solar controller tweaked to the recommended charge voltages (on battery temp compensated) the rest of the time.
So far so good. I only see outgassing (like a bubble a minute) if the temp climbs above 90 and the battery is on float.
I guess my biggest takeaway from this paper is running say a tenth of a volt under temp compensated ideal float may not be the end of the world. My own experience is that a tenth over on AGMs could potentially be slowly destructive.
Every bubble causes me pain lol.
Jim
Is this an OCD in trying to stay on the highest voltage tightwire? If so, why? What are the expected improvements?
I would be very concerned if my AGMs were bubbling at all. Do you mean to say you are exceeding the valve pressure and releasing gas?
IMHO, every bubble that escapes translates into lost capacity. That is a no-go for me.
A proper temp compensating charger should prevent any gassing at the plates. If plates are bubbling, does charging take place under the bubbles? Is gassing really needed with AGMs, after all, there is no need to stir? What good can come from any bubbling?
HTH;
John
