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 20ºC

Open Circuit Voltage

Month

10

12.4V

12.8V

180

HYBRID BATTERIES

CALCIUM-CALCIUM BATTERIES