Testing of sealed lead-acid batteries

Sealed lead acid batteries under development were tested. The goal was to develop a totally maintenance free sealed lead acid battery capable of deep discharge operation in a photovoltaic power system. Sealed lead acid batteries and a group of conventional, flooded lead acid batteries were exposed to a matrix test plan, with some approaching 1000 cycles. This performance was achieved with the standard National Electrical Manufacturers' Association cycle test, and the partial state of charge cycle test. Modes of failure are investigated.