Deep Cycle Batteries

The batteries used in solar and wind systems are rated for deep-cycle applications and are not designed to start engines. The
internal construction of automotive batteries and most marine batteries requires the battery to provide very high current flow for a very short amount of time. To meet that requirement, these batteries are constructed with many thin, lead plates. The thickness of the lead plate is a direct indicator of potential battery life in deep-cycle applications. When a battery is cycled deeply, 30% to 80% emptied, the lead plates undergo significant mechanical stress. The thin automotive-type plates do not have the structural integrity to withstand repeated deep cycling and therefore quickly fail.

There are two types of deep cycle batteries offered in this catalog:

Valve Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA) and

Flooded Lead Acid (FLA).

VRLA technology includes non-spillable gelled electrolyte and absorbed glass mat (AGM) batteries.

A gel battery uses an electrolyte consisting of a silica gel/acid mixture. In an AGM battery, the electrolyte is absorbed in separators of matted glass fibers. VRLA batteries are less susceptible to freezing than FLA batteries and carry a non-hazardous classification.

FLA batteries are filled with a water/sulfuric acid electrolyte and are better for large applications such as remote homes where greater currents are required. The amount of energy a battery is able to store is finite and is expressed in amp hours.

Total Load - how much electricity is required.
Peak Load - the largest combined amount of electricity required.
Autonomy - number of days the batteries will support the load without being recharged.
Depth of Discharge – the level the battery will be discharged.
Temperature Derating – the highest and lowest expected ambient temperature.