The lifespan of a lead-acid battery can vary depending on the quality of the battery and its usage. Generally, a well-maintained lead-acid battery can last between 3 to 5 years. However, factors such as temperature, depth of discharge, and charging habits can all affect the lifespan of the battery. Are lead-acid batteries becoming obsolete?
The primary reason for the relatively short cycle life of a lead acid battery is depletion of the active material. According to the 2010 BCI Failure Modes Study, plate/grid-related breakdown has increased from 30 percent 5 years ago to 39 percent today.
If at all possible, operate at moderate temperature and avoid deep discharges; charge as often as you can (See BU-403: Charging Lead Acid) The primary reason for the relatively short cycle life of a lead acid battery is depletion of the active material.
Lead-acid batteries are one of the oldest and most widely used types of rechargeable batteries. They are commonly used in vehicles, backup power supplies, and other applications requiring high values of load current. These batteries are made up of lead plates and an electrolyte solution of sulfuric acid and water.
The lead and sulfuric acid in the battery can leach into the soil and water, leading to contamination. Recycling the batteries can mitigate these impacts, but improper disposal can lead to serious environmental damage. What is the lifespan of a lead-acid battery?
Such batteries may achieve routinely 1500 cycles, to a depth-of-discharge of 80 % at C /5. With valve-regulated lead–acid batteries, one obtains up to 800 cycles. Standard SLI batteries, on the other hand, will generally not even reach 100 cycles of this type. 4. Irreversible formation of lead sulfate in the active mass (crystallization, sulfation)