Post by n3480h on Sept 6, 2012 21:04:36 GMT -6
I know a lot of you guys may know about lithium/iron batteries, but for those who don't, I'll relate my experience with one.
I am rebuilding a Skylite ultralight (Raceair Designs, our own Ed Fisher). The aircraft has become very heavy at the hands of several previous owners. The engine is a Kawasaki 440 with electric start. After replacing the 11-12 pound $80 gel cell battery twice, I got fed up and bought a Ballistic LiFe 8 cell battery. When it arrived, I thought they had shipped an empty box. It weighs 1.4 pounds and delivers an honest 275 CCA. It spins the Kaw and its prop much better than the 225 CCA gel cell ever did. The Aerovoltz and a few other brands appear to be the same battery with a different private label. They are more expensive, but they will easily out last a conventional or AGM battery by 2-4 years. With the optional balancing charger, expected life is 5 years. I will put the 12 cell lithium/iron in my 2287cc VW powered Sonerai: 2.44 pounds and 410 CCA. These batteries are a great way to significantly reduce the weight of any small aircraft.
Tom
I am rebuilding a Skylite ultralight (Raceair Designs, our own Ed Fisher). The aircraft has become very heavy at the hands of several previous owners. The engine is a Kawasaki 440 with electric start. After replacing the 11-12 pound $80 gel cell battery twice, I got fed up and bought a Ballistic LiFe 8 cell battery. When it arrived, I thought they had shipped an empty box. It weighs 1.4 pounds and delivers an honest 275 CCA. It spins the Kaw and its prop much better than the 225 CCA gel cell ever did. The Aerovoltz and a few other brands appear to be the same battery with a different private label. They are more expensive, but they will easily out last a conventional or AGM battery by 2-4 years. With the optional balancing charger, expected life is 5 years. I will put the 12 cell lithium/iron in my 2287cc VW powered Sonerai: 2.44 pounds and 410 CCA. These batteries are a great way to significantly reduce the weight of any small aircraft.
Tom