Power‑Sonic PS‑12180 FR M5 — 12V 18Ah VRLA AGM Battery, Flame‑Retardant Case

Introduction: Meet the Power‑Sonic PS‑12180 FR (M5)

The Power‑Sonic PS‑12180 FR M5 is a sealed 12V, 18.0Ah valve‑regulated lead‑acid (VRLA) battery that uses Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) technology. Built with a UL94:V‑0 flame‑retardant ABS case and M5 threaded terminals, this battery is designed for reliable standby power in a wide range of applications such as UPS systems, security and fire alarms, emergency lighting, medical devices and other DC standby uses. With approvals for air transport (DOT/IATA/FAA) and UL recognition, the PS‑12180 FR aims to balance safety, performance and serviceability in an economical package.

Key features at a glance

• Nominal voltage:12 V
• Capacity:18.00 Ah (20‑hr rate)
• Chemistry:Sealed Lead‑Acid (VRLA) — AGM (maintenance‑free)
• Case:Flame‑retardant ABS (UL94:V‑0)
• Terminals:M5 threaded insert variant
• High short‑burst current:~270 A (5 s typical)
• Approvals:DOT/IATA/FAA air transport approved; UL recognised; ISO9001 manufacturing
• Charging guidance:Cycle 14.4–15.0 V; float/standby 13.5–13.8 V; initial current < 0.25C

Detailed specifications and benefits

Understanding a battery’s specifications helps you match it to the right application. The PS‑12180 FR lists clear electrical, physical and safety characteristics that make it a practical choice for many installers and system designers.

• Nominal voltage:12 V — standard for a broad range of standby and portable systems.
• Capacity:18.00 Ah (20‑hr), 17.10 Ah (10‑hr), 15.30 Ah (5‑hr), 11.50 Ah (1‑hr) — these ratings show the battery’s usable energy across different discharge rates and indicate it maintains respectable capacity under higher current draws.
• Internal resistance:Approximately 10.5 mΩ — relatively low, which helps enable the high short‑duration discharge current needed for devices like alarm panels or inverter startups.
• Short‑burst capability:~270 A for 5 seconds (typical) — useful for powering inrush currents from relays, motors or charger loads.

• Dimensions:181 × 76 × 167 mm — compact footprint for rack or enclosure mounting.
• Weight:Approximately 5.6 kg — manageable for installation but heavier than comparable lithium options.
• Case material:Flame‑retardant ABS (UL94:V‑0) — enhances safety in confined or critical locations.
• Terminals:M5 threaded insert variant — provides a secure connection suited to many terminal block or lug installations.

• Recommended cycle charge:14.4–15.0 V at 20 °C.
• Recommended float/standby charge:13.5–13.8 V at 20 °C.
• Initial charging current:< 0.25C (i.e., limit charging current to under ~4.5 A to protect the battery).
• Design life:Listed as 5 years in standby service — a typical expectancy for VRLA batteries used in properly maintained float systems.

These specifications mean the PS‑12180 FR is effectively a maintenance‑free option: no watering, sealed construction to prevent spills, and proven VRLA behavior when charged correctly. The flame‑retardant case and approvals make it especially appropriate where additional safety certifications are requested.

Use cases and scenarios where the PS‑12180 FR excels

Because of its balance of capacity, pulse current capability and safety approvals, the PS‑12180 FR is suited for a range of standby and general‑purpose applications:

• Security and fire alarm systems:These systems demand dependable float power and must handle occasional alarm‑state current draws; the PS‑12180 FR’s capacity and pulse capability make it a common choice.
• Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS):Small to medium UPS modules that supply short ride‑through capabilities benefit from the battery’s low internal resistance and predictable discharge behavior.
• Emergency lighting:Emergency luminaires and exit signage require batteries that keep systems online during mains outages and hold charge reliably in standby service.
• Medical and professional equipment:Standby medical devices and professional instruments that require sealed, non‑spill power sources and safety approvals.
• Portable backup and telecom:Remote systems, telecom cabinets and portable power packs that prioritize sealed, transportable batteries.

Comparisons with similar products on the market

When selecting a 12V 18Ah battery, it helps to compare VRLA‑AGM options like the PS‑12180 FR with other chemistries and models:

Both are sealed lead‑acid formats, but AGM typically offers lower internal resistance and better high‑pulse discharge performance compared with gel batteries. Gel batteries can be better in deep discharge or slow recharge situations and some high‑temperature environments, but for UPS, alarm and emergency lighting where bursts and recharge speed matter, AGM is often preferred.

Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) or other lithium chemistries offer higher energy density, lighter weight, longer cycle life and faster recharge, but at a significantly higher upfront cost and with different safety and charging requirements. The PS‑12180 FR provides a lower cost entry point, simpler charging and broad compatibility with existing VRLA charging systems. For retrofit or budget‑conscious installations where weight and cycle life are less critical, AGM remains a practical choice.

The PS‑12180 FR’s distinguishing points are the flame‑retardant case (UL94:V‑0), M5 terminals, air transport approvals and the manufacturer’s quality controls (ISO9001). Competitors may offer similar amp‑hour ratings but vary in case material, terminal styles, short‑burst current capability and certifications. These differences matter when working to safety codes or when installing batteries in cabinets with restricted ventilation.

Customer feedback and reviews (summary)

Publicly available, verified reviews for specific battery SKUs vary by retailer and installer. Typical feedback themes for AGM batteries in this class—and reported by users of comparable Power‑Sonic models—include:

• Reliability in standby service: many installers report years of trouble‑free operation in alarm and UPS systems when charged correctly.
• Good fit for replacement: dimensions and terminal options make it a common drop‑in replacement for other 12V 18Ah units.
• Perceived value: cost‑effective compared with lithium alternatives, especially for institutional deployments.
• Weight and energy density: some customers note the heavier weight compared with newer lithium options, which can be a consideration for portable or weight‑sensitive installations.

Note: warranty information is not specified in the provided product data; buyers should confirm warranty and after‑sales support with their supplier before purchase.

Conclusion: Why choose the Power‑Sonic PS‑12180 FR?

The Power‑Sonic PS‑12180 FR (M5) is a solid, cost‑effective choice for anyone needing a dependable 12V 18Ah sealed battery for standby power. Its AGM construction delivers maintenance‑free operation and good pulse current performance, while the flame‑retardant case and transport/UL recognitions add safety and compliance advantages. Whether you’re specifying batteries for security panels, emergency lighting, UPS systems or other DC standby equipment, this model strikes a practical balance of price, safety and proven VRLA behavior.

For those comparing options, consider the PS‑12180 FR when safety approvals, low internal resistance and compatibility with existing VRLA chargers are priorities. If weight, cycle life or long‑term total cost of ownership are the dominant concerns, evaluate lithium alternatives as well—accepting the tradeoffs in upfront cost and charging requirements.

Price indicators: suggested retail pricing sits near $49.99 (supplier pricing may vary; cost price examples show $41.92). Warranty details are not listed in the supplied product data—confirm with the vendor. For complete technical curves, temperature performance and transport instructions, consult the manufacturer’s datasheet and technical documentation before final selection and installation.