The lead acid battery is one of the most established and widely used forms of rechargeable energy storage. Recognised for its reliability, cost efficiency, and adaptability, this technology continues to serve as the foundation for automotive, standby, and industrial power systems.
At Deltec Energy Solutions, we work with a wide range of lead acid technologies designed to deliver dependable performance across diverse applications — from vehicle starting power to backup energy systems.
Understanding the Lead Acid Battery
A lead acid battery stores electrical energy through a reversible chemical reaction between lead dioxide (PbO₂) and sponge lead (Pb), immersed in an electrolyte solution of diluted sulphuric acid (H₂SO₄). When discharged, both plates convert to lead sulfate (PbSO₄), releasing electrical energy. When recharged, the process reverses — restoring the plates to their original composition.
This electrochemical design, first developed in the mid-19th century, remains in use today because it offers a unique balance between energy density, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
Key Characteristics and Advantages
- Reliability and Proven Chemistry
Lead acid technology has been refined over more than a century, providing predictable and stable performance in both cyclic and standby applications. - Cost Efficiency
Compared to newer chemistries, lead acid batteries maintain a competitive price point while offering robust capacity and consistent output, making them ideal for large-scale use. - Ease of Recycling
Lead acid batteries are among the most recyclable products in the world, with established recovery systems ensuring over 95% material reclaim rates. This makes them an important component of the circular economy and a sustainable energy solution. - High Surge Capability
The technology provides strong instantaneous power delivery, essential for starting engines and supporting high-load systems.
Types of Lead Acid Batteries
At Deltec Energy Solutions, we supply multiple variants of lead acid batteries, each tailored to specific requirements:
- Flooded (Wet Cell) Batteries
These are traditional designs where the electrolyte is in liquid form. They are serviceable, reliable, and commonly used in automotive and industrial applications. - Sealed Maintenance-Free (SMF) Batteries
Designed for convenience, SMF batteries eliminate the need for water refilling and minimise gas emissions during operation. - Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) Batteries
The electrolyte is absorbed into glass fibre mats, allowing for enhanced vibration resistance, improved charge acceptance, and maintenance-free operation. AGM technology is widely used in modern vehicles and standby power systems. - Gel Batteries
The electrolyte is gelled using silica, making the battery highly resistant to leakage and suitable for deep-cycle and stationary applications such as solar, backup, and mobility systems.
Each variant is selected based on operational demands, cycling depth, and installation conditions.
Applications Across Industries
Lead acid batteries remain indispensable in multiple industries due to their versatility and resilience. Deltec supplies these solutions across:
- Automotive – for engine starting, lighting, and ignition systems.
- Industrial and Mining – for motive power, backup systems, and heavy-duty applications.
- Energy Storage and Solar – as part of hybrid and off-grid energy systems.
- Standby Power – ensuring reliability in critical infrastructure such as telecommunications, security systems, and data centres.
Deltec Energy Solutions and Lead Acid Technology
For over four decades, Deltec Energy Solutions has been a trusted name in South Africa’s battery industry, offering a curated selection of premium lead acid batteries engineered for long-term performance and reliability.
Our role extends beyond supply — we provide technical expertise, product training, and aftersales support through our established national network. This ensures that every lead acid solution we deliver is correctly specified, properly maintained, and supported throughout its operational life.
By working with leading global manufacturers and aligning with international standards, Deltec ensures consistent product quality across every range — whether it’s a standard flooded battery for everyday automotive use or an advanced AGM unit for energy storage applications.
Sustainability and Circular Responsibility
Deltec Energy Solutions supports responsible end-of-life management through formal recycling partnerships and compliance with local environmental regulations. The closed-loop nature of lead acid battery recycling aligns with our broader commitment to sustainability and responsible energy management.
This approach not only conserves natural resources but also reinforces our position as a leader in ethical energy solutions within the South African market.
Why Lead Acid Batteries Continue to Matter
Despite advancements in newer chemistries like lithium-ion, lead acid technology continues to play a vital role due to its accessibility, robustness, and recyclability. For businesses and consumers alike, it represents a dependable energy storage option that delivers measurable performance and proven reliability.
At Deltec Energy Solutions, we integrate this proven technology into a modern framework of efficiency, quality assurance, and customer support — ensuring our lead acid range continues to meet the evolving demands of today’s energy landscape.
Driving Confidence Through Proven Power
Whether you’re powering a vehicle, securing a standby system, or managing a large-scale energy application, understanding what a lead acid battery offers allows you to make informed, cost-effective decisions.
Deltec Energy Solutions provides more than just products — we deliver energy confidence through technical precision, premium quality, and dependable local support.
When you think of lead acid batteries, think of Deltec Energy Solutions — South Africa’s trusted partner in reliable energy technology.