batteries were invented in Germany in the early 1960s. German battery technicians invented a gel battery that was to be, "spill-proof", These spill lead acid batteries were first called gel cells. These batteries were sulphuric acid but were mixed with a type of silica powder which created a stiff style solid form of substance very similar to a jelly. This gel type of substance made the battery safer when tipped or dropped and therefore much safer. This new method also meant that the battery was safer to transport, and prevented any leaks should there be an accident during transportation. An additional safety feature was added to the batteries in the form a valve that re circulated any waste water within the battery that was created during charging. Gel batteries also require a different charging system, they can be charged to higher levels but must be charged by a more constant number of amps. When the battery is charged the charger turns off, then back on again when the the charge drops. These batteries are mainly used for golf buggies and mobility scooters because the battery can fully discharge without the cell coatings break down. Gel batteries are known as sealed batteries. AGM (Absorbent Glass mat) Batteries.
A further refinement to lead acid batteries was made in the late 1970s and1980s. Into normal lead acid batteries was added very small particles of glass matting..This was known as absorbent glass mat batteries known as AGM batteries. The added glass mat to the acid also makes this battery spill proof and gives the batteries the same quality as a gel battery regarding transportation and general usage. The agm battery has more power and a longer life than the gel battery due to its lack of silica in the battery mix. Agm are also known as sealed batteries , but contain a pressure release valve against potential explosion,because of this they are not classed as truly sealed. These batteries have the same type of usage as gel batteries, and are also used for ups systems and other back up facilities.
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