Bosch charger GAL 12V/18V-80 1600A037CH

Fast charging and versatility in one device

For professionals who cannot afford downtime, battery charging time is a key performance factor. The GAL 12V/18V-80 charger is a solution that eliminates the need for multiple different docking stations. The device supports all Bosch Professional lithium-ion batteries with voltages of 12 V and 18 V (including older 10.8 V systems) and is also compatible with the AMPShare platform. This allows one model to replace several others, simplifying logistics in the workshop, on the construction site, or in a service vehicle.

A high charging current of 8 A allows for the rapid restoration of tool efficiency. For example, a battery with a capacity of 5.5 Ah (ProCORE series) or 4.0 Ah (Premium series) in the 18 V system charges to full in just 46 minutes. Smaller 12 V cells with a capacity of 4.0 Ah are ready for work even faster – in about 37 minutes. Such efficiency means that a worker can replace a discharged battery with a charged one almost immediately, maintaining the continuity of assembly or repair processes.

Intelligent temperature management and safety

A key element of the design is the Active Air Cooling 3.0 system, which actively cools the battery before starting the charging process, during it, and after it has finished. The fan starts automatically when the temperature exceeds a certain threshold (above 10°C), passing cool air through special channels both in the charger and in the battery itself. This makes the process more stable and minimizes the risk of cell overheating. This directly translates to an extended lifespan for expensive lithium-ion batteries.

Process control is based on an advanced microprocessor, which automatically detects:

• The current state of charge of the cell;
• The battery temperature;
• The voltage and capacity of the connected power source.

The system selects the optimal charging algorithm for each battery type. If the battery temperature is too low (below 0°C) or too high (above 45°C), the process will be interrupted or delayed until safe conditions are met. After a full charge, the device enters a trickle charge mode, allowing batteries to be stored in the charger without the risk of damage from overcharging.

Practical design and status indicators

The device is designed for maximum convenience in mounting and use. An innovative Bay-in-Bay solution has been applied, which allows for the simultaneous placement of two batteries with different voltages (e.g., one 12 V and one 18 V) in one compact housing without the need for adapters or additional external sockets. This saves space on a workbench or in a tool box.

The housing is made of durable plastic resistant to high temperatures and mechanical damage typical of construction conditions. Mounting holes are located at the back of the device, allowing the charger to be easily hung on a wall – an ideal solution for small workshops or a tool zone in a delivery van. The operating status is indicated by two LED diodes:

• Green: Flashing means the charging process is ongoing; continuous light signals a full charge and completion of the cycle.
• Red: Informs of an error (e.g., damaged battery) or an incorrect temperature preventing safe charging.

Charging times depend on the capacity and type of cell used – the larger the capacity, the longer the cycle, while maintaining a constant current of 8 A. For typical professional applications, it is worth noting the following approximate times: 12 V batteries with a capacity of 2 Ah charge in about half an hour (34 min), and those with a capacity of 4 Ah in just under an hour (37 min). For the 18 V system, the Premium series (5 Ah) and ProCORE (5.5 Ah) require approximately 46 minutes for a full energy replenishment. Larger cells, such as the ProCORE model with a capacity of 8 Ah or dedicated AMPShare/EXBA batteries with capacities up to 15 Ah, require approximately an hour and a quarter and nearly two hours of device operation, respectively, to reach maximum charge level.

The charger operates at a standard mains voltage of 220–230 V (50/60 Hz), ensuring its universal application in most industrial and commercial facilities in Europe. The entire set is packed