T-Pain Is On A Boat: Re: [Electric Boats] Torqueedo 2.0, a good fit?

Wednesday, February 19, 2014

Re: [Electric Boats] Torqueedo 2.0, a good fit?

yes flooded lead acid, would never use again

From: oak <oak_box@yahoo.com>
To: "electricboats@yahoogroups.com" <electricboats@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Wednesday, February 19, 2014 8:53:48 AM
Subject: Re: [Electric Boats] Torqueedo 2.0, a good fit?

I had the same experience with "traditional" lead acid Group 31's that were "maintenance free". Dried up and dead in a year or less.

Deka and I think Lifeline make an AGM battery that is a "group 31" form factor.

That's what I meant - not a group 31 traditional Lead / Acid battery.

It's just a BIG agm battery, with enough Ah to hopefully handle high loads for a sustained period.

I'm assuming the batteries you had problems with were NOT AGM's, right?

From: Mark F <mark.internet@yahoo.ca>
To: "electricboats@yahoogroups.com" <electricboats@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Wednesday, February 19, 2014 10:40 AM
Subject: Re: [Electric Boats] Torqueedo 2.0, a good fit?

I would avoid Group31 batteries in this configuration.

I had these in a Neighbourhood electric vehicle at 72 volts.

They died in less than a year.

From: oak <oak_box@yahoo.com>
To: "electricboats@yahoogroups.com" <electricboats@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Wednesday, February 19, 2014 8:00:54 AM
Subject: Re: [Electric Boats] Torqueedo 2.0, a good fit?

Doug,

I'm running with a Torqeedo Cruise 2R on my Catalina 22. I'm still messing around with what the right battery combination is, but the motor itself is great, and does a wonderful job of powering the C-22.

The C-22 is a good deal lighter, and narrower than your catboat, so I can't promise the results will match. If you were at all close, I'd be willing to bring it over and try it out on your boat just to have the additional data!

In my experience, batteries have been the biggest issue. I've been reluctant to spend a LOT of $$ on batteries, since I'm not entirely positive what I really need, and what will work.

You can use 24V of just about anything to run the motor for proof of concept to see how it does.

I've tried common deep cycle marine batteries - and they simply can't handle the high load for an extended period of time (preference would be at least 40-50A for over an hour).

I'm currently trying AGM batteries. The expectation (haven't had enough experience to verify) is that they shouldn't have the problem with the batteries gassing off all their water during high power runs and deep charges. From what I've read, the AGM batteries also have a lower internal resistance, and thus handle higher loads better.

I'm currently looking at group 31 AGM batteries with between 100-200Ah of capacity, vs. a Lithium bank of 100-200Ah.

The problem with any type of lead battery is that the ratings of Ah are grossly exaggerated because they go from completely full down to completely dead - and you can't run the batteries that way. However, according to theory... you can COUNT on getting the rated capacity from a Lithium battery every cycle.

Please feel free to ask any questions you have. I have two Torqeedos, and have been very happy with both!

One thing you might consider: If $$, space, and weight are not an option - the Torqeedo 4R is not much more expensive than the 2R. The difference is that you basically have to buy twice as many batteries to get to 48V. And if you want a backup bank, you have to buy twice as many batteries again.

However - your BOAT will require the same power to push it at a given speed. The advantage of the 4R is that since it is at twice the voltage, it is pulling half the current from the batteries for the same power as the 2R. Batteries MUCH prefer to be drained at lower current levels when possible. The duration of the battery is NOT a linear function of current and voltage.

The Torqeedo 4R will unquestionably push your boat without issue. You'd have PLENTY of power if you want it, and can conserve battery power by using lower throttle settings.

John

From: Doug+Gina <dougmcq000@yahoo.com>
To: "electricboats@yahoogroups.com" <electricboats@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Wednesday, February 19, 2014 9:37 AM
Subject: [Electric Boats] Torqueedo 2.0, a good fit?

Good day,

looking at a Torqueedo .20R for for my 22' wood catboat.

Beam @ 10' with expected displacement at @ 5k pounds

would appreciate operating experience with anything comparable.

Thanks,

Doug