i Power Tubular Batteries

Lead-acid batteries now have been around for more than 150 years. While flat plate models with a lattice grid represented a technological leap forward in 1881, tubular construction is robust technology with many advantages. With advancements such as the use of non-woven gauntlets encasing the positive spine plate, to more advanced manufacturing techniques, tubular batteries provide enhanced performance and improved reliability as compared to flat plate technology.

In Tubular Batteries the positive plates are not flat but, a row of lead-oxide cylinders or tubes strung side by side (hence the term “tubular” or “cylindrical” batteries). Tubular plates use a frame structure consisting series of vertical spines connected to a common bus bar. The tubular design keeps active material mechanically together and presses it onto the grid. The paste is held in micro-porous, non-conductive tubes (gauntlets), which are placed over the individual spines. Assembling the spines, gauntlets, lead oxide, and bottom bar together makes a positive plate. Volume changes during discharge and charge are mostly compensated by a high mass porosity. Gas bubbles help to distribute remaining free particles in the cell. Pressing the PbO2 corrosion layer onto the grid surface helps to protect the lead grid against further corrosion.

Deep-cycle lead-acid batteries generally fall into two distinct categories; flooded (FLA) and valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA), with the VRLA type further subdivided into two types, Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) and Gel. The reinforcement of absorbed glass mat separators helps in reducing damage caused by spilling and jolting vibrations. Further, flooded deep-cycle batteries can be divided into subcategories of Tubular-plated ‘Opzs’ or flat plated. The difference generally affects the cycle life and performance of the cell.

A tubular battery is the most reliable and durable. Deep-cycle lead-acid batteries flooded and best suited for applications like Invertors, UPS & Solar.