Martinv
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Martinv got a reaction from Calvin in Super-capacitor BatteriesReading this was interesting and as a Sirius user, I noted a few flaws in the arguments. If one is biased in a specific direction it is easy to find arguments to prove one's view. I have used 2 of the 12V 456Wh units for 3 months and the only issue I had, was that the built-in amp meters stopped working, but they were not accurate anyway. Apart from this, these units are astounding. A few thoughts:
1. These cap units are heavy (11Kg each for the above)and LTO's would have been much lighter; 2. These may not be actual capacitors as we know them, perhaps more related to Solid State Batteries?; 3. The safe charge and discharge currents exceed the capability of lithiums; 4. The charging current follows that of a capacitor when 'empty" and near full charge; 5. The safe operating temperature is up to 85 degrees Celcius, normal lithiums cannot work above 35; 6. The warranty is 10 years irrespective of charge and discharge cycles, no lithium is warranteed like this; 7. There are similar units, like the "Zoxcell" and in an article of one manufacturer, one could see the actual Maxwell Supercaps; 8. These units clearly state the charge overvoltage criticality. Any capacitor quickly pops when subjected to overvoltage, so the picture of the fire is meaningless without facts. Even good GEL batteries melt and catch fire when overcharged.
On the NiFe battery front, I would love to buy some of these. Those are what the old Post Office exchanges used. IronEdison frequently have special offers, but these are bulky to import. They will however last a lifetime plus...☺