Kevin,
Based on your criteria, the NiFe batteries do seem like a reasonable alternative. But I have always been concerned with weight in any mobile installation. I do agree that they seem excellent alternatives for home and business installations.
I don't know how heavy your current RV battery bank is, but do you really want to increase that weight by 100 to 150 percent for the same rated capacity? Battery volume will also be a concern, do you have space for battery bank that is twice the physical size?
Many of the converted boats here have battery banks that are around 10kWh and weigh about 500 pounds. At 1000 pounds or more, NiFe will start having a bigger negative effect on performance, not only in electric range, but sailing performance too (if applicable). For me, the cost, lifecycles and fault tolerance are lesser concerns than size and weight. Most car and boat manufacturers that are venturing into this market seem to agree.
That said, if your conversion is spec'ed for these batteries, then more power to you (no pun intended). I'm looking forward to your actual observed performance data when you finish your boat.
Fair winds,
Eric
Marina del Rey, CA
--- In electricboats@yahoogroups.com, Kevin Pemberton <pembertonkevin@...> wrote:
>
> ...I can see the cost thing, but I was thinking the reliable operation due
> to simplicity in design....
>
> I have started my savings earmarked for NiFe pack. I have found large
> capacity banks just cost more to replace and as was stated, for house
> use may be a good option, and that is what I am doing first. In the
> future I can add to the bank without concern over battery age so it will
> be a win win for me. I am sorry to have brought up the NiFe, I did not
> intend for it to turn into a debate. My intent was to re-introduce a
> battery type as I wished someone had done here earlier. The house bank
> in my motor-home lasts just about 2 years (over 700 cycles), this bank
> needs replacement often in my book. My brother reports maintenance on
> his house battery claims it in 3 years. For him I recommended optima
> batteries because they are pure lead plates and will be what he needs,
> but still at close to 200 big ones for the optima, NiFe may still be a
> good bet.
>
> Kevin Pemberton
>
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