Batteries: starting, service, traction, marine
Whether for a car, a camper, a boat, or any other motorized equipment, batteries must meet very different characteristics depending on their use(s). We present to you some definitions that will help you define your need and thus not make a mistake in the choice and purchase of your battery.
Starting battery:
This type of battery prioritizes the maximum available intensity relative to volume. A starting battery like those sold for cars is designed to deliver a high current for a short moment. When it is a liquid electrolyte battery, it cannot be discharged more than 20% at the risk of irreversibly deforming the thin plates.
It should also be noted that often the service batteries in place on boats can be used to start the engine. To verify this, simply compare the maximum intensity the battery can provide (CCA) to that required for the starter. This is particularly true for AGM and Gel batteries which allow for higher discharge currents than service batteries for the same capacity.
Service battery:
A service battery is designed for deep discharge use (80%) and a significant number of charge-discharge cycles (up to 1200 cycles for a quality battery depending on the depth of discharge).
AGM or gelled electrolyte batteries are best suited even though some liquid batteries meet this need. Their capacity being generally large, they can also be used to start the engine.
Traction battery:
It is a battery capable of delivering high intensities for a long duration. It is used, for example, for forklifts. AGM and gel batteries meet this need, and maintenance liquid batteries (possibility of adding water) are also designed for this use.
Marine battery:
A marine battery is designed to take into account all the constraints of navigation. It is a service battery that can also be used for starting (although for safety reasons, it is preferable to dedicate a battery to starting). A marine battery must also be sealed and have a sufficient electrolyte level so that the electrodes are always immersed, regardless of the boat's heel. It must also have good mechanical resistance and be designed to limit gas emissions for safety and longevity reasons.
When buying a so-called marine battery, it is essential to check its technology and ensure that it meets the need (no leakage, low gas emissions, and finally study the performance). Gelled electrolyte batteries (AGM or gel) are, due to their technology, best suited for marine use.