You should also be aware that there are different types of chemistry in AGM batteries. My new ProNautic charger has 4 different programs for charging AGM batteries, and at least one of those is pretty much identical to the programs available for lead-acid. But the instruction manual for the charger tells you to be sure to contact the battery supplier to identify the exact type of AGM you are using so you can be sure to setup the proper charging profile.
Have you thought about going to Lithium batteries? A boater on my dock is in process of installing 4 of them on his O’Day. Cost of the batteries is about $300 each – which isn’t dramatically higher than good AGMs, His bank will be between 400 and 500 AH (I forget exactly what he told me), but with Lithium batteries you can use more than 50% of the bank capacity without harming the batteries… you just need the correct charge profile (and a higher capacity charger). Rick Brass Washington, NC From: CnC-List [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of Josh Muckley via CnC-List Sent: Tuesday, October 16, 2018 9:14 AM To: [email protected] Cc: Josh Muckley <[email protected]> Subject: Re: Stus-List AGM Batterries I don't think a formalized commercially available box is specifically required. If you find references contrary please let me know. However "battery boxes" serve multiple purposes beyond acid containment. Properly engineered and installed boxes ensure that a loop seal is maintained such that water cannot get in the box should the boat flood. They simultaneously allow gasses to escape, and provide battery encapsulation. Here are a few references. https://www.passagemaker.com/technical/the-large-battery-bank-equation-part-i https://www.uscgboating.org/regulations/assets/builders-handbook/ELECTRICAL.pdf https://marinehowto.com/installation-orientation-of-flooded-batteries-on-boats/ ABYC E-10 is the pdf I was looking for but unable to immediately source. ABYC is similar to the underwriters laboratories. They don't write the law but they do make industry standards for safety which will likely define whether or not an insurance claim will be paid. The electrical pdf above gives reference to the CFRs. The actual law. AGM are a type of lead acid technology. They are not at risk of spilling their acid and can be mounted at varying angles and orientations. They can vent gasses, though when they do it is permanently damaging to the battery. If you delve into AGM be mindful of the stringent charging differences and make sure that all of your charging sources (shore power charger, alternator, solar) are changed to match. Do not under any circumstances allow an equalize to be applied to an AGM. Any voltages above 14.6v will cause permanent damage. Josh Muckley S/V Sea Hawk 1989 C&C 37+ Solomons, MD On Tue, Oct 16, 2018, 7:51 AM pete.shelquist--- via CnC-List <[email protected] <mailto:[email protected]> > wrote: I’m not sure where to reference the regulations/guidelines on this, so if someone can point me in the right direction I would appreciate it. I would like to add a couple more batteries and am looking at AGMs due to their tolerance of being at an angle. Since, as I understand, they are not technically a lead-acid, do they still need to be installed in a battery box? I’m very tight on space and could use the extra few inches. Thanks, Pete _______________________________________________ Thanks everyone for supporting this list with your contributions. Each and every one is greatly appreciated. If you want to support the list - use PayPal to send contribution -- https://www.paypal.me/stumurray
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