Why You Need a Battery Box in Marine Applications

Published on: February 20, 2022
Written by Liam Jaxon / Fact-checked by David Rowan

What Is Battery Box and the Purpose

In the world of marine application, the following article strives to energize and delve deep in the concept of battery boxes. Firstly it comes to an elucidation of what a battery box defines and its functionalities. The battery box includes a set of identical batteries and battery cells. Just like the definition, the purpose is ever so simplistic: to protect the batteries.

It is essential in all climates, especially during winters, where it offers an extra layer of protection to batteries, which prohibits them to crack in the frigid winters. This particular box keeps the battery acid from potentially spilling out and harming both the battery and other materials and surroundings.

In short, it offers all-round safety. Inside the box, it contains a battery that it tilts the battery and stops them to move more than an inch in either direction. This averts them from becoming damaged, even if the box is tipped over. 

Finally, the box also keeps the battery terminals and the metal electrical contacts on the battery from coming into close contact with other metals. What it does is it nullifies the chance of getting a shock or short circuit.

Elucidating What Battery Does

To comprehend the battery box, one must first need to have adequate knowledge of the batteries that are being put inside them. Batteries are organized into groups depending on a range of numbers developed by Battery Council International.

This prestigious regulatory body publishes standards for lead acid batteries, which involve testing standards, battery dimensions,s and amps.

The group numbers identify the exact battery used in vehicles based on case size, voltage, maximum overall dimensions, terminal arrangement, and other special features. These are available on the top of the battery, which identifies the shapes and sizes of the batteries.

Which Categories of Batteries Require a Box?

The first type of battery that cries for a battery box is lead acid batteries, due to the fact that they are exposed to the elements. These batteries are built with lead, which by conception is a uniquely toxic metal that has the potential for humans and the environment to consume it.

Alongside this, it also contains sulfuric acid, giving a clear indication that these are corrosive. Therefore it is a masterstroke to protect the batteries using the box.

Deep cycle, lead acid, or batteries on a high charge, emit hydrogen gas. The majority of the time, the gas from the deep-cycle battery is formed when one charges more than it should. There is a limit to the concentration of the hydrogen gas: starting from -1% to a maximum of 4% and beyond. Should the concentration level reach the latter, then one is inviting a potential explosion to themselves.

This is petrifying even while writing. Irrespective of the type of natural environment, land, air, and water, a battery box will provide a safe vent to divert any gas, produced by the battery during recharges so that they don’t build up within the box.

What Benefits Do Battery Boxes provide in Marine Applications?

1. Improve safety: Battery boxes can help to contain and protect the batteries, preventing any potential short circuits or other hazards.

2. Reduce corrosion: Battery boxes can help to reduce corrosion due to the presence of moisture or other corrosive elements.

3. Provide secure storage: Battery boxes can provide a secure place to store batteries and other electronics, protecting them from theft or damage.

4. Increase efficiency: Battery boxes can help to increase the efficiency of the electrical system by providing better insulation and ventilation for the batteries.

5. Reduce noise: Battery boxes can help to reduce the noise caused by vibrating batteries.

Fundamental to Use in Marine Applications

Not only battery box is a safer and more advanced tool to use in the boats, it is mandatory to use in a number of scenarios. For boats, where a motor is needed, or located in the power section a certain guaranteed level of protection is essential, approved by proper regulatory bodies.

When conducting marine applications your batteries will have a high level of volatility from spillage. Also, it is obvious that installing a battery box can be quite an unattractive proposition, which is why there are numerous sizes to protect the batteries, without losing the charm of the boats and other marine applications.  

Types of Battery Box Sizes

There are as many as five categories of battery box sizes. The first one involves a standard box. It has both vented and non-vented features catered to protect a certain kinds of batteries: Group 24 and 24M.

Secondly, there is the Power Guard 27 box, which, as the name suggests, protects all kinds of Group 27 batteries. Lastly, there are large boxes that offer sufficient capacity for higher-size batteries like Group 29 or Group 31. Battery boxes are known to have supreme ergonomics under any weather conditions.

Most importantly it is harnessed in the tightest of manner. So when one is using it for traveling as a part of marine applications, the users won’t be overwhelmed by the sheer size of it. Rather, it will move smoothly with the vehicle and will not rattle loose.

How to Install Battery Box for Marine Applications?

For post-installation battery boxes one needs mounting hardware and brackets that can hold the strap in place. Firstly set the battery box that one would like to be placed and take the first mounting bracket and let it slide under the front edge of the box.

This process allows the tool to sit flush with the box during the period of installation. Repeat the same method for the second box as well. Once both batteries are placed carefully screw the locations and remove the mounting brackets. This is followed by laying the strap between the marks and placing it over the strap and screwing them into place. This will create a secure and sturdy strap.

The process is still unfinished and you need to place the box on the top of the strap, harness it tightly, and finally, your box is successfully installed.

Batteries are a source of energy in motor applications, and arguably the biggest source. Therefore protecting it becomes a religious responsibility.

In the concept of marine applications, water will cause it to explode, leading to a loss of batteries, and more importantly human lives. Therefore battery box is the shield that protects all of it while further optimizing the battery’s stamina to a larger degree.

Conclusion

A battery box is an essential safety feature for marine applications. It helps keep the batteries secure from the elements and from potential corrosion, and it also prevents accidental short circuits and other electrical hazards. Battery boxes also make it easier to service and maintain the batteries and protect them from physical damage. Battery boxes are a necessary component of any marine electrical system and a smart investment for any boat owner.

Relevant Resources:

• 5 Reason That’s Why Every Boat Should Have a Battery Monitor
• Restore a Lawn Mower Battery in 3 Easy Steps