scope:

Purpose.

This AFMAN has been issued to provide users with application, selection, installation, and maintenance guidance for valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA) batteries. The purpose of the requirements contained in this AFMAN is to assure the most reliable system possible with VRLA batteries. VRLA batteries are relatively new to the market and they have exhibited different aging and failure modes than traditional vented batteries. For this reason, this AFMAN provides a detailed explanation of VRLA battery design, degradation, and failure. Traditional vented lead-acid batteries are discussed only to the degree necessary to explain key differences between vented and VRLA batteries. The background information is educational in nature and is intended to provide insight into the purposes of the requirements for VRLA battery application, installation, and maintenance.