Battery Basics

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LEAD ANTIMONY VS. LEAD CALCIUM

Lead-Antimony Cast Grid
Conventional Low-Maintenance batteries use grids of Lead-antimony which is readily available, inexpensive, easy to cast, and provide a rechargeable battery that offers optimum efficiency and low cost. Lead antimony is used in Low-Maintenance batteries. Such batteries are built to reduce internal heat and water loss. Battery construction provides a deeper well area to allow a slight water loss over the life of the battery. Under normal conditions, the addition of water should not be required.

Lead-Calcium Grid
The maintenance-free batteries, such as Delco Freedom batteries, uses calcium. The lead-calcium grid is strong, more resistant to corrosion as well as overcharging, gassing, water usage, and self-discharge, all of which shorten battery life in conventional lead-acid batteries. Lead calcium is used in Maintenance Free batteries. Battery construction provides a deeper well area to allow a slight water loss over the life of the battery. No provision for adding water to the cells is provided because the battery is sealed.