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Can anybody tell me how to correctly load test a 12v 12AH Gel Cell battery. I am uncertain as to what voltage I should run the battery down to, at the C20 rate, before recharging it. The test started with the battery at 13.2v. I am using a cap-pulser Bedini style from the FEG book. A 12v 5W bulb, drawing 360mA for approxiamately 15 hours, was placed across the battery until the battery reached 12.06 volts. Should I have gone down to 10.07v before stopping the test? I've spent hours searching the web but am unable to find the info I need. Also, what is the maximum voltage that such a cell can be safely taken up to when using the cap-pulser described above? Hoping someone can advise me.
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As a general rule, don't discharge more than 10% of the standing voltage, so if your voltage is 13.2 then multiply by 0.9 to give 11.88v.
Gel batteries usually have a higher charging voltage than the old lead acid types, normally it is written on the side of the battery. I have seen voltages as high as 15.9 written on the side but if there is no info use 14.4v.
The time your test ran suggests your battery is down on capacity.
I find the old lead acid type of battery much better for cycling than gel batteries. All gel batteries that I have used have failed within a year or so
, on the other hand I have ordinary lead acid batteries that are 9 years old and performing as good as new.
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Thanks mbrownn for the information. You answered my questions.Comment
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