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An enhanced flooded battery (EFB) can be used in cars that feature Stop-Start technology. It is considered an entry level battery for use in cars with this technology. This blog will look at the advantages and disadvantages of using this battery in these cars and how it compares to other batteries.
What is EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery)?
EFB batteries are the latest development of the flooded lead acid batteries. They do not suffer from the problems of traditional flooded batteries. And they have a longer cycle life and a shorter recharge time. They may cost you a bit more at the initial stage, but they will pay for themselves in the long run. A normal battery lasts for around 400 recharge cycles. An EFB battery, on the other hand, can go up to more than 1000 cycles. This means that it has a longer life and can store more energy. It also means that it takes less time to charge the battery.
How does the EFB work?
Flooded batteries have a liquid electrolyte inside the battery cells. When the cells are full the electrolyte submerges the plates on the top of the battery. In an enhanced flooded battery, there is a gel which is added between the plates and the electrolyte so that the plates are never completely submerged. Since this gel is lighter than the electrolyte, it moves up to the top of the battery when the battery is charging, so that the plates always remain covered, even when the battery is full. This gel restricts the movement of gas bubbles, so the battery lasts longer. Also, because this gel is lighter than the electrolyte, it can easily be pumped out, so the battery can be easily refilled with electrolyte. This means this battery can be “recharged” many times – instead of just once, like a traditional flooded battery.
In a flooded battery, this pattern is divided into 6 compartments. Each compartment has a different electrolyte level. As the battery discharges, the sulfuric acid in the electrolyte is converted into gas, hydrogen and oxygen. The oxygen bubbles up through the electrolyte to the surface, and the hydrogen gas finds its way out through the vents in the cover. When charging, the vents are closed. The oxygen finds its way to the positive plates, while the hydrogen finds its way to the negative plates. The charging process allows the oxygen to react with the metal plate, forming metal oxide. The water also finds its way to the metal plates, where it dissolves the metal oxide, thus restoring the metal plate to its original state. This is the charging process. When the battery is discharged, the process takes place in reverse.
What does the Stop-Start technology means in Enhanced Flooded Battery (EFB)?
The Stop-Start technology is the technology that allows the engine to run without the use of any fuel, like electric hybrid car. The engine will shut off when car is stopped for a while, in order to save fuel. When the driver again wants to move, this type of engine needs to be started in 2 steps. The first step is to start the electric motor, and the second step is to start the combustion engine. This technology is very useful in places like stop-signal traffic lights or in residential areas during night where the engine can be switched off to reduce noise and fuel consumption. Thus, the Stop-Start technology is very good for the environment.
What are the advantages of EFB?
Typically, a flooded battery is a single cell with a central plate and a positive and a negative terminal. Flooded batteries have a relatively low self-discharge rate, so they tend to have a long shelf life. They can be deep cycled and charged more quickly than a standard battery. The disadvantage of a flooded battery is that it is more prone to “sulfation” than AGM or Gel. Sulfation is a condition of the plates that occurs over time due to the voltage being applied to the plates. This is why you need to keep your lead acid batteries maintained. Enhanced flooded batteries, however, use an additive in the electrolyte that prevents the sulfation process. This reduces the corrosion process in the cells.
What are the disadvantages of EFB?
The electrolyte levels in Flooded Batteries must be maintained above the plate, otherwise the battery plates will corrode and the batteries will fail.
Conclusion
You may require an EFB battery if you own a hybrid or electric car that uses Start-Stop technology to stop and start at traffic lights. Or in case you have a battery in your vehicle which is cracked or damaged either because it needs replacement or recharging. However, if in doubt, please contact our customer support team before buying a new flooded battery replacement.
