Float voltage: Difference between revisions
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'''Float voltage''' refers to the (somewhat) constant [[voltage]] that is applied continuously to a [[voltaic cell]] to maintain the cell in a fully charged condition. The appropriate '''Float voltage''' varies significantly with the chemistry and construction of the battery, and ambient temperature. With the appropriate voltage for the battery type and with proper temperature compensation, a float charger may be kept connected indefinitely without damaging the battery. |
'''Float voltage''' refers to the (somewhat) constant [[voltage]] that is applied continuously to a [[voltaic cell]] to maintain the cell in a fully charged condition. The appropriate '''Float voltage''' varies significantly with the chemistry and construction of the battery, and ambient temperature. With the appropriate voltage for the battery type and with proper temperature compensation, a float charger may be kept connected indefinitely without damaging the battery. |
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With a 6-cell (nominal 12V) [[lead-acid battery]] the correct float voltages are Gel 13.2V, Flooded 13.4V and AGM 13.6V (@ 25°C). |
With a 6-cell (nominal 12V) [[lead-acid battery]] the correct float voltages are Gel 13.2V, Flooded 13.4V and AGM 13.6V (@ 25°C). Compensation of approximately -5 mV per degree of temperature change per cell are necessary. For example a 12V (6 cell) battery at 30°C (+5°C change): |
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Compensation of approximately -5 mV per degree of temperature change per cell are necessary. For example a 12V (6 cell) battery at 30°C (+5°C change): |
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-5mV * 6 cells * +5°C change = -150mV |
-5mV * 6 cells * +5°C change = -150mV |
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13.4 (flooded battery float) + (-150mV) = 13.55V |
13.4 (flooded battery float) + (-150mV) = 13.55V |
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Revision as of 20:19, 6 January 2011
The template {{Expand}} has been deprecated since 26 December 2010, and is retained only for old revisions. If this page is a current revision, please remove the template. Float voltage refers to the (somewhat) constant voltage that is applied continuously to a voltaic cell to maintain the cell in a fully charged condition. The appropriate Float voltage varies significantly with the chemistry and construction of the battery, and ambient temperature. With the appropriate voltage for the battery type and with proper temperature compensation, a float charger may be kept connected indefinitely without damaging the battery.
With a 6-cell (nominal 12V) lead-acid battery the correct float voltages are Gel 13.2V, Flooded 13.4V and AGM 13.6V (@ 25°C). Compensation of approximately -5 mV per degree of temperature change per cell are necessary. For example a 12V (6 cell) battery at 30°C (+5°C change):
-5mV * 6 cells * +5°C change = -150mV
13.4 (flooded battery float) + (-150mV) = 13.55V
Not compensating for temperature will shorten battery life by over or under charging.