In the case of a TB20 with full TKS, this battery would save weight where it is useful, helping to offset the weight of the fluid. But at 6k that would be a ridiculous proposition especially as I carry some 20kg of tools and spares in the same area!
I wonder if anyone in Germany can phone Straubing and ask them the cost breakdown?
aircraftspruce.com sell it for 4.895$ …
http://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/elpages/mci_tb_lithbatt-tx16.php
Earth-X, first mentioned years ago above is still out there, with some certified models.
Their 2020 Brochure lists a load of 12V models and you need to dig through the dimensions to see which of the old lead types are intended to be replaced with these.
But for 28V aircraft the choice is simpler: they list just one
The dimensions are within the popular Concorde RG24-15 but at 6.6" it is about 0.6" higher which could be a problem.
This is a LiFePO4 battery which doesn’t have the “catching fire” problems.
I might be wrong but I believe only the 12V version is for certified aircrafts. I looked at the 24V to replace a Gill battery in my Mooney but it’s for Experimental only for now. Hopefully that will change soon.
EarthX attracts a lot of US experimental pilots and builders. The weight advantage is very appealing indeed.
Some still don’t like the idea of a lithium battery in their plane.
The main exp battery maker (Odyssey) seems to have some quality issues which makes the experimental community lean towards EarthX.
They have a TSOed battery for certified planes. Quite expensive.
https://earthxbatteries.com/product-category/certified-aircraft
French DGAC issues a warning about lithium batteries, including a interview from an FI who ditched near Corsica after the Li battery of his UL caught fire in flight.
It is in French.
This is targeted to ULs but it could be interesting for GA pilots.
French UL experience about 5 Li battery fires per year
Argh.
The ETX680 is out now. Should be usable, but the 24V (ETX680-24-VNT) is close to $1000.