Battery Glossary – VRLA Batteries

VRLA (Valve Regulated Lead-Acid) is another description for the more commonly used term Sealed Lead Acid Battery. The ‘Valve Regulated’ part of the name refers to the fact that the battery can release excess gases should it need to but there is no standard opening for the addition of electrolyte as is common in many automotive units.

The valve is a safety feature put in place in case of abuse such as overcharging or malfunction which would cause an excess of hydrogen to build up within the case and, in extreme situations, result in the unit exploding.

VRLA batteries are designed to operate in any position so even if the unit is placed on it’s side or upside down no acid should leak from a correctly functioning valve.

This battery type is popular in Emergency Lighting, PLC and Alarm Systems. Users should note that maintenance of the battery includes periodic verification that the recharging systems are working at the great voltage (known as the float voltage). If the voltage is too high the valve will vent hydrogen which is an explosive gas and the battery’s life span will also be reduced.

Types of VRLA batteries:

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