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LEAd ACid BATTERY gLoSSARY
ABSORBED (OR ABSORPTIVE) GLASS MAT
A technique for sealed lead-acid batteries. The electrolyte is absorbed in a matrix of
glass fibers, which holds the electrolyte next to the plate and immobilizes it, preventing
spills. AGM batteries tend to have good power characteristics, low internal resistance,
and good behavior during charging.
AMP, AMPERE
Unit of electrical current. Abbreviated “A”.
AMP-HOUR
Unit of electrical energy, one amp of current flowing for one hour. Abbreviated Ah.
CELL
A single battery canister usually grouped together with other cells to form battery packs
of different voltages and amperages. Example: One NiCD cell is 1.20 volts; therefore, six
cells packaged together makes a 7.2 volt battery pack.
CYCLE
A “cycle” is a somewhat arbitrary term used to describe the process of discharging a
fully charged battery down to a particular state of discharge. The term “deep cycle”
refers to batteries in which the cycle is from full charge to 80% discharge. A cycle for an
automotive battery is about 5%, and for telephone batteries is usually 10%.
ELECTROLYTE
An electrically conductive medium in which current flow is due to the movement of ions.
In a lead-acid battery, the electrolyte is a solution of sulfuric acid. In other batteries, the
electrolyte may be very different.
FLOODED CELL
A design for lead-acid batteries. The electrolyte is an ordinary liquid solution of acid.
Flooded cells are prone to making gas while being charged. They must be periodically
checked for fluid level and water added as necessary. Flooded cells are also typically
less expensive than AGM or gel type lead-acid batteries.
HYDROMETER
A tool for testing the specific gravity of a fluid, such as the electrolyte in a flooded
battery. Typically, a squeeze-bulb is used to suck up a sample of the fluid, and a float
indicates the specific gravity.
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