Battery Hydrogen Gas Generation

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Interlude35
Posts: 44
Joined: Wed Mar 18, 2015 7:44 pm

Battery Hydrogen Gas Generation

Post by Interlude35 »

We have been considering adding a vent to the battery compartment as the batteries generate some hydrogen gas when charging. Hydrogen gas above 4 percent concentration is considered an explosive mixture. I have not heard of any problems due to hydrogen generation and a literature search indicates hydrogen gas is very light and will escape through a very small opening dissipating very quickly. I am not sure any action is needed and would appreciate any thoughts on this topic.

John & Marilyn Ferguson
Interlude 316
New London, CT
wolfe10
Posts: 587
Joined: Mon Dec 11, 2006 2:58 pm
Location: Ft Myers Florida

Re: Battery Hydrogen Gas Generation

Post by wolfe10 »

Many of us have gone with AGM batteries because they do NOT out-gas unless severely overcharged.

Was introduced to them (Lifeline brand) in the mid 1990's because they came as standard equipment on our Pacific Seacraft Crealock 37'.
Brett Wolfe
C350 #180
"Vindaloo"
Ft Myers FL
Interlude35
Posts: 44
Joined: Wed Mar 18, 2015 7:44 pm

Re: Battery Hydrogen Gas Generation

Post by Interlude35 »

Thanks Brett- were you required to change the alternator? Have you done any other changes to accommodate the AGM batteries? How have they lasted? Thank you

John Ferguson
Inderlude 316
wolfe10
Posts: 587
Joined: Mon Dec 11, 2006 2:58 pm
Location: Ft Myers Florida

Re: Battery Hydrogen Gas Generation

Post by wolfe10 »

Interlude35 wrote:Thanks Brett- were you required to change the alternator? Have you done any other changes to accommodate the AGM batteries? How have they lasted? Thank you

John Ferguson
Inderlude 316
John,

No, changing to AGM's does not require changing the alternator.

BUT, all battery technologies will benefit from a higher output alternator and smart regulator. Have done both and run sense wire for the regulator to the battery #1 so the batteries see absolutely the recommended charge voltage.

The higher output alternator speeds charging when at anchor and using the engine for charging.
The smart regulator speeds charging when at anchor and using the engine for charging AND also keeps from over-charging the batteries when motoring all day (goes into float mode).

Brett
Brett Wolfe
C350 #180
"Vindaloo"
Ft Myers FL
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