subject: Are Lifeline Batteries Right For My Needs? [print this page] Are Lifeline Batteries Right For My Needs?
Concord invented AGM technology in 1985 in order to make military aircraft batteries. The precision and dependability of these batteries had to be absolute, and yet they had to be lightweight and durable for such a task. Older batteries were dangerous and difficult to use, and needed water refilled often. Not only did acid leak out of them, but they produced a lot of gas while they were charging. These electrolyte storage batteries had to be replaced with a safer, more efficient model.
This is why the Lifeline Sealed Lead Acid Batteries were made from the AGM technology. Lifeline has been a huge contender in researching, developing, and manufacturing these batteries for the US Navy and Air Force for the last fifteen years. They are now utilized for marine, RV, and other vehicles. The issue of the gas pressure was fixed with a simple relief valve to keep the gases in. Then they release into the water, which keeps the supply topped off.
Many of the features which are now used in the Lifeline Batteries existed in what is referred to as gelled electrolyte batteries. Often these were also nicknamed Gel Cells. Their make-up was mainly sand and sulfuric acid. The issue with these kinds was that they cracked and caused the acid to stop flowing freely. Then the capacity of the battery would be a lot lower.
Inside the plates of the new Lifeline AGM Batteries, however, the electrolytes get soaked into silica mats. They don't move for as long as the battery is being used. It also keeps the oxygen, which is produced during charging and will be released into the water. Therefore there is literally no work involved with keeping these Lifeline AGM Batteries from spilling or needing maintenance.
The argument for using Lifeline Batteries is a strong one. Their production makes them good enough to be used by the military. The internal resistance is lower, which means the engine starts more often. These batteries will not leak, which means they can withstand more hits than other batteries. Lifeline Batteries also have twice as much discharge/charge cycles.
These batteries can be submersed into water without fear of causing damage. You can hook them up in any position, and never have to fill them up. There are no specific rules on how they should be shipped. Lifeline Batteries come encased in a durable polypropylene.
Not only does the United States Military utilize these batteries, but a lot of other manufacturers do too. Lazarra Yachts, Island Packet, Pacific Seacraft, Viking Yachts, Elco Electric Boats, and San Juan Yachts are just a few.