Battery types

This type of battery is also known as the "standard" or "conventional" battery. These batteries can be recognised by the fact that the lid incorporates screw plugs. These batteries can be maintained (distilled water can be added), and they can be charged by any charger.

Applications: Starter batteries and traction batteries

These batteries are also known as "maintenance-free batteries". In contrast to wet batteries, these batteries cannot be opened. They are sealed and cannot be topped up with water. This type of battery requires a regulated charger.

Applications: Starter batteries

VRLA battery (Valve Regulated Lead Acid) is another name for a recombination battery. Batteries produce gas because the water is broken down into its constituent parts, hydrogen and oxygen (= galvanic process). These gases normally escape via the ventilation system. In a recombination battery the hydrogen and oxygen are retained and then converted back (= recombined) into water by means of a chemical reaction. A certain amount of pressure is required in the battery for this reaction to take place. In the event of excessive pressure due to mismanagement (wrong charger), the valves must open 100% reliably. The gases can escape via the valve, but the service life of the battery is permanently reduced. It is also vital to ensure that outside air is never allowed to get into the battery. Recombination batteries must never be opened, and are totally maintenance-free. However, the battery connections should be checked regularly to make sure they are tight and clean. This type of battery requires a regulated charger.

Applications: Starter batteries and traction batteries

The different battery types also require different charging methods for optimum performance.