LEISURE POWER BATTERY GUIDE

Transcription

1 LEISURE POWER BATTERY GUIDE All the Best Brands with the Finest Technologies from the World s Leading Manufacturers 12-VOLT

2 RESERVE POWER WHERE AND WHEN YOU NEED IT Leisure Power Batteries Batteries which provide the auxiliary power in your Caravan, Motorhome or Camper Trailer are designed differently from a conventional starting battery found under the bonnet to start your engine. They are engineered specifically to withstand the rigours of repetitive long slow discharges over hours, sometimes days, before a complete recharge. These batteries are either of dual purpose or deep cycle construction depending on the extent of use and average depth of discharge and come in a variety of manufacturing technologies. Typically the traditional flooded cell or the newer AGM or Gel technologies. In this brochure you will find a selection of useful information which helps to take the guess work out of finding the right battery for you. More Power, For Longer, More Often! Only choose batteries designed for the job at hand After reading this brochure and talking to your preferred battery stockist, please, whatever technology you decide on make sure the battery is designed to perform as an auxiliary power supply. All technologies can be made as either starting, dual purpose or deep cycle batteries and only the latter two are made to provide reliable power discharge after discharge. When choosing between these two, if your use is daily repetitive heavy discharges then deep cycle batteries are the best alternative. If your use is more intermittent, with periods of downtime between uses, then you will find dual purpose batteries will perform extremely well, as the battery will more often fail through age deterioration than through exhausting its cycle life. Many leading Caravan, Motorhome and Campervan manufacturers have proven in the field the value of using batteries designed for use in these ways. PH:

3 Technologies Explained Gel Technology Sealed Valve Regulated Gelled electrolyte batteries simply put feature a gel electrolyte rather than the liquid electrolyte used in the conventional flooded (wet) battery. Once filled the batteries are sealed and valve regulated becoming spill proof and leak proof with no external venting in normal operation. The batteries are primarily manufactured for deep cycle applications and when manufactured properly and charged correctly they can provide amazingly long cycle life performance. Always remember though that it is the quality of the manufacturing process and the parts and ingredients used that determines the actual performance and not just the technology itself. AGM Technology Sealed Valve Regulated AGM Batteries utilise the second manufacturing technology which is called sealed, spill proof, leakproof and in normal operation non venting. In simple terms the liquid electrolyte is placed in the battery at point of manufacture and is absorbed into fine highly porous microfiber glass separators so that there is no free liquid inside the battery as with flooded batteries. The then sealed and valve regulated maintenance free battery eliminates gas emissions and acid leakage in normal operating conditions. The technology is widespread however it is not generic and the quality of the manufacturing process and the parts and materials used determines the service life you will obtain. AGM batteries are manufactured for all normal battery requirements starting, dual purpose and deep cycle so for leisure power always ensure you choose a battery designed for dual purpose or deep cycle applications and not one designed as a starting battery only. Flooded Batteries Flooded batteries both the traditional maintainable as well as the more recent maintenance free versions are the most widely used batteries still in most starting automotive, marine and deep cycle commercial applications. They are less expensive than either AGM or Gel however and in general do not provide the same cycle life or convenience as either AGM or Gel. However when built specifically for cyclic uses as in leisure power situations a well maintained wet cell deep cycle battery will certainly provide a long service life for you if you are committed to a regular maintenance regime. The question for you in leisure power is do you still want to regularly water and maintain your battery or even have a battery which in normal service vents externally with all the problems this may involve. Applications explained Starting Service When a battery is called upon to deliver several hundred amps of power to start your engine this power must be delivered quickly and efficiently to ensure crisp fast starts. This rush of current flows from the surface area of the battery plates so that good starting batteries typically will have multiple thin plates to maximise total plate surface area and minimise internal resistance to ensure the delivery of high starting current. Typically thin plates degrade far more rapidly in deep cycle service than the thicker plates used in batteries designed for repetitive discharges which is why Federal Batteries recommend against their use in leisure power applications. Deep Cycle Service In contrast to a starting battery, deep cycle batteries are called on to deliver a long slow discharge over several minutes, hours or even days in order to run auxiliary loads in all leisure power situations. In this use the power comes from deep within the plates and not merely off their surface area as in starting so that they are engineered amongst many other features with heavier thicker plates, heavy duty separators and fibreglass reinforcement. All this allows them to better withstand the damaging effects of this type of service. Dual Purpose Service Quality dual purpose batteries are also designed for the same constant and repetitive draw down as with deep cycle batteries and with similar features. As they are also at times utilised in some cases as starting batteries and in other cases such as with Remco as standby batteries the ability to provide exactly the same life cycles as deep cycle only battery designs is slightly compromised. This is why we suggest their use in either light to medium duty deep cycle situations or where as with many caravans and motorhomes use is intermittent with periods of seasonal inactivity.

4 FEW BATTERIES DIE A NATURAL DEATH, MOST ARE MURDERED! Simple tips to ensure long battery life - Always size your battery bank correctly so that your normal usage between charging will leave at least 50% battery capacity in reserve. Minimising your depth of discharge (DOD) will greatly enhance battery life. - For best battery life it is advisable to fully charge your new battery prior to installation, and please remember it generally takes between cycles to reach full capacity, depending on the specific battery chosen. - All batteries are damaged if left flat or in a discharged state for any period of time, so please fully recharge your battery as soon as possible after use and always make sure your battery is maintained in a state of full charge in between uses. - Your battery should be kept as clean as possible and terminals should always be kept clean and tightly fashioned. If it is a flooded technology type battery, please make sure it is watered regularly so that plates are always covered. - All batteries gas when in service. In the case of valve regulated AGM and Gel type batteries this gassing, in normal service, is recombined inside the battery. In the case of flooded type batteries, this gas is vented externally. In instances of severe and protracted overcharge, even valve regulated battery technologies may release excess gassing to ensure worse scenarios do not occur, so please remember no battery manufacturer advises fitment of their batteries in fully sealed airtight containers. - Charging batteries to ensure they are returned to a full state of charge and maintained that way is not rocket science. A correctly sized battery charger which is set to the specified charge voltages recommended for the specific batteries you have. Thus it it vital to know the boost and float voltage specifications recommended for your battery in order to recharge them correctly. It is also highly recommended to ensure that the charger is sized to match the capacity of your battery and that it is large enough to fully charge your battery within a 8-12 hour period. A simple rule to follow is to ensure the charger has a current output at least 10% of the C20 rating of the battery. For more information on proper battery maintenance or finding a suitable charging system for your application, please ask your friendly battery supplier or head to WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further Information If you would like to learn more about these batteries, their associated technologies or to view our expanded range, please head to Here you will find up to date information on our entire range of Batteries, Chargers and Accessories along with a rich resource area filled with technical and informative video presentations covering a wide range of Explanations, Tips and Techniques. All the Best Brands with the Finest Technologies from the World s Leading Manufacturers

5 BATTERYspecifications Deep Cycle & Dual Purpose AGM Technology Dual Purpose & Deep Cycle AGM technology Remco is, in our opinion, one of the leading battery manufacturers in China today. They produce a wide range of quality sealed lead acid (AGM) batteries suitable for most deep cycle as well as standby applications. For the leisure power market they have a wide range of dual purpose and specific deep cycle batteries which have proven themselves in the field as OE over many years. The batteries feature AGM technology for zero maintenance service life and are of non spillable non hazardous design. They are manufactured with tough, high impact resistant ABS resin cases which preclude fitment in high heat under bonnet enviroments and like the majority of other AGM batteries on the market the Remco range has a maximum recharge current recommendation of 30% of its rating. They have mounting flexibility and different case offerings and can be used in series and or parallel to obtain a choice of voltages and capacity. Remco represents a very cost effective quality AGM offering for the leisure power market. RM12-40DC Insert RM12-65DC Insert RM insert RM12-80DC insert RM insert The Intimidator series incorporates the earlier Seamate RV range extending this quality dual purpose AGM offering from the USA. Intimidator is a pioneering brand in the development of the form, fit and function of AGM technology and is a perfect option as an auxiliary power source in all Caravans, Motorhomes and RVs. Design features include micro-porous glass separators, low internal resistance, spill proof design, high vibration resistance, enhanced electrolyte suspension, power-perform full frame positive and negative plates and high quality one way pressure relief valves to ensure battery integrity. With exceptional cycle life these batteries provide a real alternative to consider for maintenance free, safe, long lasting leisure power applications. 8AU1H Lug A SAE A22NFM lug A24M dual A27M dual A31PH SAE A31DTM dual A4DM ± top end A8DM ± top end AGC2M offset RM12-100DC insert RM12-100FT insert RM insert RM insert RM12-200DC End lugs Premium Sealed RV Batteries the heart of your system The Lifeline AGM range of maintenance free deep cycle batteries incorporate technology originally developed in 1985 for the US military. Safety, reliability, service life and performance are the benchmarks for Lifeline. Featuring a cycle life performance 2-3 times more than its competitors along with extremely low internal resistance that allows a much speedier and more efficient recharge than other AGMs, Lifeline is manufactured without compromise. Lifeline is unquestionably the best, most efficient lead acid battery available today in leisure power situations such as Caravans, Motorhomes and Camper Trailers and also comes with a long 5-year pro rata warranty for peace of mind. To learn more on the Lifeline advantages download or read the Lifeline technical guide in the resources section of our website *** Dimensions**(mm) GPL-U1T TI Flooded Deep Cycle These are precision built in USA for maximum service life and featuring thick heavy duty full frame plates and grids, specially formulated oxide and high density plate paste, deep pocket envelope separators, quality fibreglass matt wrap and over 250 quality checks. They require an active maintenance regime and regular watering. If this is something you are willing to do it is a leisure power battery that will really last. If fitted in your caravan or motorhome external venting to the outside is absolutely necessary as all really good quality wet cell deep cycle batteries vent when in service particularly when on charge. So be careful. DC Dual DC Dual DC31DT Dual C Opp Lug C Dual C6V Dual Opp L Opp Lug GPL-24T MC GPL-27T MC GPL-31T MC GPL-31XT MC GPL-30HT MC GPL-4DA ± End SAE GPL-4DL ± L blade GPL-8DA ± End SAE GPL-8DL ± L blade GPL-4C Offset TI GPL-6C Offset TI GPL-L16T Offset TI GPL-31T-2V Dual TIs GPL-4CT-2V Offset TI GPL-6CT-2V Offset TI GPL-L16-2V Offset TI The Optima Yellow Top range feature the original and best Spiral Cell Technology which is often touted as the most recognisable battery in the world. Featuring high purity lead grids and AGM separators for long maintenance free operation, resealable pressure release valve ensuring longer service life, low internal resistance for fast recharge, high density tight packed plates for long cycle life and maximum vibration resistance, these batteries are up there with the best you can use provided the relevent case and capacity option is available. If you need a second battery for fitment into limited spaces under-bonnet or elsewhere these are a great option, however in Motorhomes and Caravans the capacity available somewhat limits them. The Ultimate Power Source Dual Purpose AGM Power at it Best D51R-T JIS small D SAE D SAE D27F SAE D31A Centre SAE Add 23.1mm for handle embossment at top. 2 Add 27mm for handle embossmet at top.

6 A true dual purpose battery utilising a rugged tightly packed construction with pure lead plates and AGM technology, Odyssey provides a durable, safe, non spillable battery with a cycle life to 80% DOD of 400 cycles, which is far above the industry average. The sealed non spillable design provides mounting flexibility, the quality of the manufacturing process ensures superb charge retention and the very low internal resistance ensures recharge efficiency comparable to the industry leaders and starting capacity comparable to most starting only designs. The unstressed operating temperature range is -40 C to 80 C for models in metal jackets. Pure Lead Construction AGM Design Dimensions**(mm) PC1200MJT brass SAE PC SAE & GM PC SAE PC1700MJT brass SAE PC SAE din PC SAE din PC SAE PC SAE PC2150MJ brass SAE PC2250MJ Opp dual The Benchmark in Flooded Deep Cycle Technology US Battery Manufacturing have been at the forefront of lead acid deep cycle battery development since 1926 and are focused on producing the very best quality, longest lasting and most dependable wet cell deep cycle batteries available. All they do is deep cycle and they do it well. These batteries employ a host of patented technologies to deliver the very best performance in all demanding traction applications at the most economical price. Being flooded cell batteries they require maintenance and regular watering and do vent externally, so be careful with where you may fit them in your caravan or motorhome. With that, said the cycle life you can expect is up there with the very best from any lead based battery technology. US 2000 UT opp UT US 2200 UT opp UT US opp UTL US 145 UT opp UT US opp Bolt thru US 305 HC opp Bolt thru US L opp Bolt thru US L16HC opp Bolt thru US RE L opp Bolt thru US 27DC XC Dual US 31DC XC Dual US 12V XC UT Low The Worlds Most Advanced Gel Technology Battery US 185 S Bolt thru US 8D HC ± End SAE Gel technology has proven over many years to be an exceptional performer in all deep cycle situations in leisure, marine, solar and other demanding environments. This technology was the first to be non spillable, non venting and non hazardous, and when manufactured correctly, few battery options will equal their cyclic performance. The Gel-Tech battery series are developed in the USA and manufactured in state of the art facilities utilising patented technology, and intergrate many exclusive features which set it apart from other gel batteries. To understand the differences please download or read our Gel technical guide in the resources section of our website Dimensions* (mm) 8GU1H Lug G40C Insert G22NF Bolt G34R Insert G24M Dual G27M Dual G31DT Dual G4D ± End SAE G8D ± End SAE GGC Offset Bolt Varta hobby batteries are manufactured in the EEC in specific European case sizes to allow easy fitment in today s European recreational vehicle fleet. They are high quality flooded technology deep cycle batteries designed for todays leisure power market. Built with world leading wet cell technology and design they are spill proof to 55 - degree tilt and have a low self discharge rate for handling seasonal inactivity. Whilst practically maintenance free we do suggest a regular maintenance regime to ensure you achieve a cycle life up there with the best around. Flooded Cell Deep Cycle Hobby Range /A SAE rec /C SAE rec /A SAE rec /D SAE rec /E SAE rec /I ± End SAE /J ± End SAE /M Opp SAE *Specifications may change without notice **For correct charging voltages please visit ***MC = Marine Copper Alloy SAE Your local Stockist Federal Batteries (Ryde Batteries Wholesale) Pty Ltd, D2/22 College St, Gladesville, NSW contact@federalbatteries.com.au