I've joined in several threads regarding batteries in the past...I recently supplied some Lifeline AGM batteries to a friend for his sailboat...the following information was included with each battery, and may be helpful to those that already have AGM's, or are thinking of buying them as replacements...
LIFELINE…the heart of your system
OWNER’S MANUAL
Congratulations on the purchase of a new Lifeline battery! Lifeline has been the leading name in AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) batteries since 1993. The quality and durability of the Lifeline battery series has been proven again and again in military and commercial applications worldwide.
The AGM difference:
* 20% faster recharge than a conventional vented battery and gel cells.
* 100% maintenance free. No additional of water needed.
* Classified as ‘NONSPILLABLE” and can be shipped HAZMAT Exempt by any means.
* Tested to stringent military shock and vibration standards.
* Minimal gas release under normal charging conditions.
Sizing a battery bank:
It is always good to have twice the battery capacity that an application requires. This will promote long battery life and also reduce the amount of recharge time.
Battery Charging:
WARNING: All batteries must be adequately vented during charging to avoid accumulation of explosive hydrogen gasses. Never install or charge in a sealed container or room.
The following charging voltages are recommended for maximum battery life for all Lifeline models.
- ..................Volts per cell...... 6 Volt battery.......12 volt batt
- Bulk/Absorb***2.37 - 2.40*****7.10 - 7.20 ******14.2 - 14.4
- Float ********2.20 - 2.23 *****6.60 - 6.70 ******13.2 - 13.4
NOTES:
1. Use only constant potential (constant voltage) chargers.
2. For 24 volt systems, multiply
12 volt setting by 2.
3. Charge voltage should be adjusted if battery temperature varies by more than 10 degrees F from 77 degrees F. Consult website for further guidance (
www.lifeline batteries.com)
Conditioning/Equalizing Charger:
Charge at 15.5 volts for 8 hours.
Conditioning/equalizing should only be done when the battery is showing symptoms of capacity loss. If conditioning/equalizing is necessary, first go through the normal charge cycle. Once the battery is fully charged, start the conditioning/equalizing charge.
NOTE: For maximum life, batteries must be periodically recharged to 100% capacity. Continually recharging to less than 100% may result in premature capacity loss. It is recommended that batteries be recharged to 100% at least every 5-10 cycles.
For Inverter/Charger applications:
Refer to the Inverter/Charger manual to ensure the correct voltages have been set.
Knowing when to recharge:
As a general rule, batteries should be recharged immediately after use or when they reach approximately 50% depth of discharge. Discharging to 60% or even 100% occasionally will not harm the batteries, but if this is done frequently it will shorten the battery’s overall life. If batteries are discharged beyond 50%, it is important to recharge as soon as possible (same day if possible). The depth of discharge can be estimated by measuring the “open circuit voltage” as shown in the following table. Note that the battery must be at rest with no loads for at least 4 hours to obtain an accurate “open circuit voltage”.
Depth of Dis'chg .... Volts/cell ....6 V Battery .... 12V Batt
********0% *******2.13V******6.40V********12.8V
*****************or more****or more******or more
********25% ******2.08V******6.25V********12.5V
********50% ******2.03V******6.10V********12.2V
********75% ******1.98V******5.95V********11.9V
*******100% ******1.93V******5.80V********11.6V
******************or less*****or less********or less
Multiple Batteries:
If there is more than one battery in the battery bank, the following guidelines should be used:
* Always use batteries of identical make, model and with the same manufacturing date.
* Make sure the battery cable is not undersized for the battery system.
* Make sure the battery cables are connected to the terminals correctly. If unsure, professional assistance is recommended.
Storage:
Follow these guidelines if the battery is to be stored for an extended period of time (more than a month).
* Fully charge the battery before putting it in storage and store in a cool place.
* It is not necessary to leave the battery on charge while in storage.
* Disconnect the negative battery cable. This will prevent inadvertent discharging of the battery that may lead to a complete discharge.
* Boost charge the battery every 3 months while in storage to ensure maximum battery life.
Warning:
* Risk of fire, explosion or burns.
* Do not disassemble, heat above 75 degrees C, or incinerate.
Warranty:
Lifeline batteries have a 5-year pro-rated warranty with a 1-year free replacement (12-month pro-rated warranty in applications other than marine or RV). The warranty period starts at the time of purchase. If the original receipt is lost, the warranty will be based on the battery date code. The warranty covers defects in material, workmanship and failure, except where such failure is due to abuse, neglect or breakage. The warranty does not cover consequential damage or injury, discharged batteries, rental, freight or installation costs. Replacement batteries will be provided at the time the warranty is requested. Credit will not be issued after the purchase of a new battery. For warranty questions, please contact Lifeline Inc at (800)527-3224.
Document No. 6-0104, Rev A
Linear Mode
