Valve Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA) Batteries are sealed, maintenance-free lead-acid batteries that recombine hydrogen internally, eliminating venting holes. In this article, we explore the Advantages of Valve Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA) Batteries and why they are safer, efficient, and easy to handle.
What is Valve Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA) Battery?
The normal lead-acid battery evolves hydrogen which needs to vent through the cell in order to avoid the explosion of the battery. On the other hand, the evolved hydrogen in the VRLA battery is reused in the battery itself. Therefore, no venting holes are required for venting hydrogen.
The other names of VRLA batteries are;
- Sealed Lead Acid Battery
- Recombinant battery
Why VRLA Batteries Are Maintenance-Free
As discussed, the sealing of the battery is possible because the battery reuses hydrogen in the charging process and there is no need of venting the hydrogen gas. This is why we call it a sealed lead-acid battery.
We also call the VRLA battery a Recombinant battery because the oxygen released at the positive plate during discharging recombines with the hydrogen from the negative plate to form water.
Thus there is no need to add water to the battery because no loss of water happens in the VRLA battery. This reason makes the VRLA maintenance-free. This is the major advantage of VRLA batteries.
Key Advantages of Valve Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA) Batteries
- VRLA battery is maintenance-free and no need to fill it with water.
- No need of room venting fans because the VRLA battery does not vent hydrogen.
- VRLA battery capacity is high (12000 Ah)
- The life span of the batteries is about 10 years.
- The same charging equipment can be used for float charging of the battery.
- VRLA batteries are economical.
- VRLA batteries can be mounted in horizontal or vertical positions. It occupies less mounting space.
- In VRLA batteries, there is no fear of spillage of electrolytes. Therefore, it is easy to handle VRLA batteries during shipping.
Summary Table: Advantages of VRLA Batteries
| Advantage | Explanation |
| Maintenance-Free | No need to add water, thanks to internal hydrogen-oxygen recombination. |
| No Ventilation Needed | Hydrogen gas is reused internally, eliminating venting requirements. |
| High Capacity | Can provide large storage, up to 12,000 Ah. |
| Long Lifespan | Lasts around 10 years under proper conditions. |
| Float Charging Compatible | Can use the same charging equipment for float charging. |
| Economical | Cost-effective for long-term energy storage. |
| Flexible Mounting | Can be installed horizontally or vertically, saving space. |
| Safe Handling | No electrolyte spillage, easy to transport and handle. |
Conclusion
Valve Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA) batteries significantly improve upon traditional flooded lead-acid batteries by providing maintenance-free operation, enhancing safety, and allowing flexible installation.Their sealed design, hydrogen recombination, and reliable energy storage make them ideal for UPS systems, solar setups, off-grid power, and industrial applications.
While VRLA batteries provide long lifespan, high capacity, and easy handling, careful attention to charging practices and operating conditions ensures optimal performance. Overall, their low maintenance, safety, and efficiency make them one of the most trusted and widely used lead-acid battery solutions for diverse energy storage needs.
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