"Eric Greenwell" wrote in message
...
Ken Kochanski (KK) wrote:

Although the technology is still pricy vs lead-acid batteries, the
power/weight/size vs cost equation is getting better. Anybody using
lithium model airplane packs bundeled to produce 12 - 14 v @3 - 6 amps
as a power source for their glider? (I have been looking at the
duralite site ... I'm sure there are others.)
http://www.duralitebatteries.com/batteries.html


Given the cost and careful charging requirements, I'm guessing the
interest in these is to allow more amphours to be stuffed into the
glider's original battery box? Eliminating the need for adding another
box when you added a transponder/Ipaq/etc would maybe make the Li
battery cost worthwhile. For example, from the Duralite site:

The recommended
safe charging procedure for all Li-ion & Li-Poly
batteries is to charge them out of the aircraft in a ?re
proof area or container. Always be present during the
charging cycle. Unplug the batteries from charger when
charging cycle is complete.


Yikes!

I don't see any other advantages for gliders over the standard sealed
lead/acid batteries, which are cheap and trouble free.


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Eric Greenwell
Washington State
USA

Well, Li chemistry batteries have much better performance when it's cold
than either lead, NiCd or NiMH. So that might be a consideration for those
flying wave a lot.

Tim Ward