Airpax Dimensions MIL-24X26UVQ Owner's Manual - page 10
10
2.2.2 Deep Cycle Battery Theory
There are two categories of lead acid deep cycle batteries; wet and sealed. Sealed
batteries can be either gel cell or AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) type. Deep cycle batteries
are designed specifically for repetitive charge and discharge cycles. These batteries are
also made to be discharged to a very low level before recharging. Their plates are
thicker than automotive starting batteries.
Deep cycle battery power capacity is rated in amp hours with a given discharge time
typically at 20 hours. A 100-amp hour battery will produce five amps for twenty hours
before it is exhausted. Automotive starting batteries are rated in cold cranking amps and
are not recommended for inverter applications.
We strongly recommend using auxiliary deep cycle batteries with your
Dimensions inverter.
Do not use only the engine starting battery.
a) Wet Cell Batteries: Characterized by their relatively thick internal plates that are
alloyed with antimony. These batteries will gas when charging resulting in some water
loss. It is very important that the electrolyte level be checked frequently and filled with
distilled water when necessary.
b) Sealed Batteries: Can be either gel cell or AGM type and do not require periodic
electrolyte replenishment.
Sealed batteries will NOT tolerate overcharging
• Gel Cell Batteries: The chemical composition and construction of these batteries
are unique. The electrolyte is mixed with a silica material, which converts it into a
gelatin. This keeps the water and acid mixed and allows the battery to be used in any
position, as there is no liquid to run out. These are the safest for use indoors. They are
the least affected by temperature extremes (especially freezing.) Their tolerance for
being stored at low state of charge levels is excellent. Gel cell batteries do not require
maintenance, have low self-discharge rate and low internal resistance.
• AGM Batteries: These are lead acid, maintenance-free batteries and their
performance is similar to gel cell batteries. The liquid electrolyte has been absorbed into
fiberglass cloth mats between the plates. They have good deep cycle characteristics and
can be used in most positions. They are less affected by temperature extremes than a
wet cell type battery but are more sensitive than a gel cell battery. AGM batteries do not
tolerate storage at a low state of charge as well as a gel cell but will handle
overcharging slightly better. The charging characteristics are similar to gel cell batteries.
2.2.3 Battery Cable Assembly
Use stranded copper cable for the battery-to-inverter cable and for the battery-to-
alternator cable as indicated. An in-line fuse must be installed between the battery and
the inverter and between the battery and alternator. U.L. requires that the fuse be
within 18 inches of the battery.
Use SGX cross-linked polyurethane that complies with SAE J-1127 and vehicle
manufacturer requirements as well as high temperature insulation requirements
(135°C.) of SAE J-1127.