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Non-Tech : Electrosource (ELSI) - maker of batteries for EV
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To: Jim Spitz who wrote (118)4/4/2000 12:54:00 AM
From: Harpo  Read Replies (1) of 132
 
FAA Certification
I would like to clarify what some of the FAA certification issues are, as I understand them.
An aircraft (in the civilian world) is considered by the FAA or it's foreign counterpart as "airworthy" when it 1. conforms to its "Type Design" and 2. when it is in condition for safe operation. An aircraft design, after much testing, is issued a "Type Certificate". In order to deviate from the "Type Certificate" sometimes a "Supplemental Type Certificate", or STC is issued. For example, if someone wanted to supply a new type of battery which is different from the ones covered under the "Type Certificate" one would attempt to obtain an "STC". First one must address numerous safety issues. This has to be done for each type certificate (make and model).
In addition to addressing design issues, manufacturing processes must also be approved. FAA PMA Approval is a time consuming process as well, requiring the adoption and implementation of a quality standard. This explains one reason why aircraft parts are so expensive.
So I am a little skeptical about ELSI's potential in this arena. There are already quite a few advanced "gel-cell" batteries on the market and the competition is heavy. Also, many of the turbine aircraft manufacturers prefer to install Ni-Cad batteries, which are perceived as better. In order for most people to switch from a factory installation there has to be a clear reason to do so. Usually cost is an issue, lead acids are considerably cheaper. I wonder though, how effectively ELSI batteries would compete with the other advanced lead acid batteries on the aviation market, provided they even make it past the many certification hurdles facing them, and why they think they can justify a valuation that is so much higher than others in the industry whose capabilities far exceed them. I would be interested in hearing comments.
regards
Harpo
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