Let's get to know the various types of car batteries
The battery is a vital component for a car. The battery is the main source of electricity that will supply all of the vehicle's electrical systems. Therefore, it is important to know them because there are various types of batteries.
In general, batteries include batteries that store electrical energy in the form of chemical energy. In it, an electrochemical process occurs which converts the reaction into electrical power to supply electrical energy to car components.
The car components that usually require electricity supply from the battery are the car starter, car ignition system, car lights and air conditioning. Without a battery, nothing can run. Never mind the components functioning optimally, the car won't even start.
As important as the use of batteries is, it is better to know the various types. With that, you can determine which option is best and most suitable for your car. What types of batteries are on the market? Here are the types:
Wet Battery
This is one of the most popular types of batteries. It is called a wet battery because there is an electrolyte liquid in it in the form of sulfuric acid. This type of battery is the cheapest compared to the others. Its existence is also easy to find.
However, wet batteries have their own drawbacks. This battery must undergo regular maintenance so that its performance continues to be maintained well. Please note, over time, the electrolyte fluid in it will evaporate and run out. If that happens, the battery will not function.
Therefore, it is recommended to refill the battery fluid once a month. If you always do this, wet batteries can be said to be long-lasting. They can be used for a long time. However, be careful when charging. Sulfuric acid is corrosive so it can damage car components, especially those made of iron.
Dry Battery
Dry batteries are often called Maintenance Free (MF) batteries. This type of battery is also easy to find on the market. However, even though it is called a dry battery, there is actually still liquid in the battery. Inside there is an electrolyte liquid like a wet battery.
However, what differentiates it from a wet battery is the presence of a strong seal on its surface. This prevents evaporation of fluid from occurring, so the battery is free from maintenance.
No need to refill like a wet battery.
Dry batteries tend to be more expensive than wet batteries. However, their lifespan is faster than wet batteries. Usually dry batteries have to be replaced with new ones every 1.5 to 2 years.
Calcium Battery
Calcium batteries are actually almost the same as wet batteries. What makes the difference is that the ends of the battery poles are made of calcium. This material creates less evaporation so maintenance is easier.
Not only that, calcium batteries are also very good at storing electric current. Likewise in the conduct of electricity. However, this type of battery is still less popular in Indonesia.
Higher prices could be the reason. Apart from that, calcium batteries are more difficult to find on the market.
Hybrid Battery
As the name suggests, hybrid batteries are a combination of two types of battery technology, namely dry batteries and wet batteries. Inside a hybrid battery there is an electrolyte liquid like a wet battery. However, the hybrid battery is already charged so it can be used straight away.
The presence of a strong seal means the hybrid battery has a lower evaporation rate, so maintenance is minimal. Even so, this type of battery can still be added with its own fluid.
However, this type of battery is still difficult to find on the market. Apart from that, the electrolyte liquid inside has highly corrosive properties. In fact, because of this, the liquid is considered dangerous for the human body.
Gel Battery
Gel batteries are a type of battery with the latest technology. Inside there is no longer an electric liquid, but a gel. This has an important influence. Gel battery maintenance is very minimal because evaporation is almost non-existent.
In this regard, the service life of gel batteries is longer. It is estimated that the usage time can be double compared to other types of batteries. However, compared to other types of batteries, gel batteries are the most expensive and more difficult to find on the market.