HMS Beagle wrote:
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.
Great info.....Thanks
The other thing I am confused about is the # of charge cycle for various batteries.
There is a local battery manufacturer (Firefly) who has a group 31 agm battery and say it is good for 3600 charge cycle at 50% discharge.
These batteries are VERY expensive, but the cost / charge cycle could actually be less if you are in it for the long haul.
I don't know what # of charge cycles a good flooded cell golf cart battery would be.
