Forum Discussion
HMS_Beagle
Aug 19, 2014Explorer
Bob B wrote:
A couple questions.....do you have an example of a charger that has the ability to equalize a battery?
Are the thin cell Odyssey batteries wet cell or AGM?
Thin cell Odyssey batteries are AGM chemistry.
There are many chargers with an equalize function. Many of the better Magnum and Xantrex chargers have it. Though there is lack of standardization in the industry, what you are looking for is usually called a "4 stage charger" rather than a 3 stage - equalization being the 4th stage. (The stages are: Bulk, Absorption, Float, and Equalization). Some solar charge controllers also do this, although you need a lot of daylight to complete the process. Equalizing is a controlled overcharge, usually at about 15.5-16.5 volts for several hours. It is called "equalizing" because it brings all of the cells in the battery up to the same level. In a flooded battery it also mixes the electrolyte and returns some of the lead sulfate to solution. It also boils some water out which must be replaced afterwards. Most AGM and Gel batteries should NOT be equalized as there is no way to replace the lost water. However Lifeline recommends it on their AGMs under some circumstances.
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