Frequently Asked Questions - First Aid for Batteries

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How does FAB Technology work?

FAB technology is a patented process that suppresses sulphation build-up on battery plates, this is a common cause of lead-acid battery failure. Although there is enough reactive material in batteries to last for many years, often they don’t because of sulphation build-up. In the past little could be done, but with First Aid for Batteries that is all changed.

To see sulphation and the FAB at work, download this PDF.

What is FAB Technology?

FAB technology is defined by a distinct "pulse form" that has a controlled rise time, pulse width, frequency and amplitude of current and voltage.

What are the benefits of using FAB Technology?

FAB technology ensures peak battery performance and maximum life. This means: You save money on battery costs by maximizing battery life. You help the environment by not having to discard batteries prematurely.

Will FAB help other electrical components?

By maintaining batteries in peak condition, alternators do not work as hard because batteries accept charge more readily so alternator life is extended.

Healthy batteries start engines easier, so your starter will also last longer.

An added benefit is maximum fuel economy, because maximum spark will be achieved by your vehicle's electrical system.

Will FAB work on Gel-Cell batteries?

First Aid for Batteries works on all lead-acid battery types including: Gel Cell, Antimony, Hybrid, Calcium Plate and Absorbed Glass Mat. (AGM)

Will a 12 Volt FAB work with 6 volt or 24 volt systems?

FAB models are "voltage specific" i.e. 12 volt models work on 12 volt systems only, 24 volt models work on 24 volt systems only etc. However they can be installed in series using multiple units to condition large battery banks. For example a 144 volt system can be fitted with 3 x 48 volt units or 4 x 36v units or with 6 x 24v units. The factors dictating which combination is correct will depend on battery bank capacity, size and physical configuration. Please fill in the contact form for specific advice for your installation.

Do I still need First Aid for Batteries if I drive my Vehicle every day?

Even frequently used batteries can suffer from sulphation problems. It is possible for a vehicle to develop an undercharged battery if it is constantly driven at low speeds or left idling for long periods. In this case the alternator cannot charge at optimum rate. The result is an undercharged battery even though the vehicle is running all day. A downward spiral is created because as the battery sulphates, accepts less charge and sulphates more. Ultimately, it dies.

Will sulphation build-up occur on a new battery?

The rate of sulphation build-up on a battery will vary depending on battery usage and condition. It will occur faster on batteries that are used infrequently but will still affect frequently used vehicles. New batteries may already be sulphated when they are installed on your vehicle, sulphation can occur in new batteries in stock as well as used ones. sulphation build-up begins to occur the moment battery acid is added to a battery, so new batteries on a store shelf can suffer from this build-up.

Does weather affect my battery?

Extreme heat and cold will increase the speed of sulphation build-up in a battery. The rate of sulfation build-up doubles for every 10-degree increase in temperature. Installing the FAB will minimize the effects of weather. It is important if you live in areas of extreme cold to install a Megapulse FAB on vehicles that will be sitting unused for extended periods of time. FAB coupled with a Megapulse SolarMate solar panel will prevent the normal loss of battery power no matter how long the vehicle sits.

How much longer will batteries last with FAB?

This is difficult to predict because service life of batteries vary depending on many different factors. By using the FAB, the life of your batteries will be maximized. There is enough reactive material in a battery to perform the energy transfer process for many years. But sulphation build-up normally prevents that from happening. By eliminating sulphation build-up, FAB enables batteries to have maximum performance and service life cycle. FAB has been evaluated by CSIRO, Unitech Energy, OEM manufacturers, commercial customers and individuals. The answer is the same: FAB works!

Does FAB have a warranty?

Megapulse FAB is backed by a full replacement 7-year warranty, and has a design life of 15 years.

Can FAB be used on more than one battery at a time?

The FAB MK4 is designed to work with a battery or a bank of batteries of up to 1500 Ah per FAB unit. For banks above 1500 Ah adding further FAB units in series will increase the rating by 1500 Ah per unit.

Can FAB be moved from battery to battery?

FAB can be moved from battery to battery (minimum 3 months), but we recommend permanent installation. Sulphation build-up happens 24-hours a day from the moment acid is added to the battery. Although you can use the FAB part time, a permanent installation will give maximum result because it eliminates the existing build-up and prevents it from re-occurring.

Is FAB a charger?

No, FAB is a battery maintenance system. It will not recharge a discharged battery.

Will FAB recover a dead battery?

FAB is designed for keeping batteries in peak condition for maximum service life. In most cases when batteries are mechanically sound, FAB can be used to recover batteries that will not accept and hold a charge. Make sure the cells are topped up and attach an automatic boost/float type charger, next attach FAB and leave for a period of 2 weeks. Some badly sulfated battery plates can take several weeks to clean so you may need as much as 6 to 8 weeks. Please note, not all batteries can be recovered.  It is impossible to recover batteries with short circuits, open circuits or other physical/mechanical damage.

How is FAB installed?

FAB can be installed by anyone in minutes, without special tools or expertise.

Will FAB harm my vehicle’s computer or electronics?

FAB has been tested by CSIRO and found to be safe on vehicle computers, ignition systems and electronics.

What is The Impact of FAB on the Environment?

FAB will help protect the environment from the hazards of discarded lead-acid batteries by reducing the number of batteries dumped in landfills every year. FAB will also help by reducing the energy required to recycle discarded batteries, the emissions from recycling plants raise the carbon footprint. The damage caused by lead and sulphuric acid leaking from batteries that have been disposed of is alarming. Even small amounts of lead can cause severe damage to animals and humans who ingest it. The most effective way of reducing the number of discarded batteries is to keep them in service longer.