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Bus Discussion => Bus Topics ( click here for quick start! ) => Topic started by: HB of CJ on December 06, 2007, 02:26:01 PM

Title: AGM battery bank charge rate
Post by: HB of CJ on December 06, 2007, 02:26:01 PM
Anyone know if AGM (absorbed glass matt) batteries enjoy a quicker/safer charge rate than ordinary lead/acid types?  I'm figuring on an 8 hour charge rate (total) for T-105's....are sealed-type batteres in general quicker on the recharge and if sooss, how much?  :) :) :)
Title: Re: AGM battery bank charge rate
Post by: makemineatwostroke on December 06, 2007, 02:34:13 PM
HB,go to www.lifelinebatteries.com click on the motorhome and it will give the info you need
Title: Re: AGM battery bank charge rate
Post by: Jerry Liebler on December 06, 2007, 08:07:32 PM
HB,
   It depends a bit on who made the AGM.  None should be charged at above 14.4 volts and some have current limits, the lowest I've seen being c/3.  c/3 means that AH rating divided by 3 is the max charge current.  Most makers, of AGM and flooded cells,  permit c/1 charging.   You should not deplete charge below 50 % for maximum life.  So if You recharge at C/3 and limit discharges for max life your charge cycle should be just over 2 hours.
Regards
Jerry 4107 1120
Title: Re: AGM battery bank charge rate
Post by: TomC on December 06, 2007, 10:40:16 PM
With Lifeline batteries, you can pump in as much amperage on charging as you want as long as the voltage doesn't exceed 14.4 volts on a 12volt.  I have 2-8D Lifeline AGM's and when they are at 50% charge, or right at 12.0 volts, my 130 amp inverter set at 90 amp can recharge the batteries to full float in 2-2 1/2 hours.  Much faster than the old wet cells.  I REALLY like the Lifeling AGM batteries!! Good Luck, TomC
Title: Re: AGM battery bank charge rate
Post by: HB of CJ on December 07, 2007, 02:01:59 PM
Thank you people.  Now I have ANOTHER  good reason NOT to use the older golf cart type lead acid wet cells, since the new stuff allows for a much quicker recharging cycle which may mean less APU generator time which will save diesel fuel which over the life of the batteries may pay for themselves just in the $fuel saved$ recharging the things.  Longterm boondocking dry camping.   The overall equations are now looking very good. Thanks again.  :) :) :)