13
All lead-acid batteries suffer from self-discharge. The pace of this self-discharge depends on the storage conditions and the technology. Generally, the cooler the storage conditions, the slower the self-discharge. Calcium (Ca)-Calcium (Ca) batteries, such as conventional flooded (maintenance-free) car and truck batteries, have a lower self-discharge than Antimony (Sb) Calcium (Ca) conventional batteries (Hybrid) like some marine/leisure and truck batteries with filling plugs for water top-up.
This is important for both distributors and battery users. Distributors have to make sure that the FIFO (first-in, first-out) rule is applied for stock management. At the same time, the voltage of the batteries should be regularly controlled: when the voltage drops to 12.5V, the battery needs to be recharged to avoid shortening the battery s lifespan and introducing performance problems.
People who only use their battery for short periods during the year (such as motorbike, motorhome, caravan or boat owners) have to ensure that their batteries are fully recharged before storing them away. They should also regularly check/recharge them during storage time.
MAIN REASONS FOR REDUCED BATTERY LIFE
100%
65%
40%
18%
100%
155%
210%
268%
HOW TEMPERATURE AFFECTS ENGINE STARTING
BATTERY SELF-DISCHARGE
AVAILABLE POWER FROM BATTERY
POWER REQUIRED TO CRANK ENGINE
Incorrect application or short circuit
Short distance trips with maximum loads
Loose fitting and box damage
Prolonged periods of self discharge
Overcharging with risk of drying out
Extreme temperature
SHELF-DISCHARGE OF BATTERIES SHELF LIFE AT 20ÂșC
Open Circuit Voltage
Month
10
12.4V
12.8V
180
HYBRID BATTERIES
CALCIUM-CALCIUM BATTERIES