Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO₄), also called LFP, is one of the more recently-developed rechargeable battery chemistries and is a variation of lithium-ion chemistry. Rechargeable lithium iron phosphate batteries use LiFePO₄ as the principle cathode material. Despite having a lower energy density than other lithium-ion chemistries, lithium iron phosphate batteries can provide better power density and longer life cycles.

The main advantages of LFP batteries over traditional lead acid batteries are:

• Durability
• Longer lifecycle
• Higher tolerance to conditions of full charge
• Less stressed at higher voltage for longer periods of time
• Faster charging
• Lighter weight

SAFETY

LFP batteries are also incredibly safe. When we hear about lithium battery fires, those are typically related to Lithium-Ion batteries. Our batteries are Lithium Iron Phosphate and use a different chemistry that is much more stable.

Lithium iron phosphate has excellent thermal and chemical stability. These batteries stays cool in higher temperatures. They are also incombustible when mishandled during rapid charges and discharges or when there are short circuit issues. Lithium iron phosphate does not experience thermal runaway in the same way that lithium-ion does, as the phosphate cathode will not burn or explode during overcharging or overheating as the battery remains cool.

COST

Some may look at the upfront cost of LFP batteries to be expensive when compared to the sticker price of lead acid batteries. However, when amortized over the life of the battery, we find that LFP batteries are actually a much more cost effective battery. The chart below helps to show the cost per cycle of each battery type. 

Alternatively, you would have to purchase 6 lead acid batteries at $180 each to reach the same number of cycles as a single Astro Lithium battery. Those six batteries would cost you about $1,080 versus the initial up front cost of $399 for our battery.

CHARGING

Charge much faster with LFP batteries. A 54Ah battery can charge from 0% to 100% in under 3 hours when using the Astro Lithium 12v 20A lithium charger. We always recommend using lithium specific battery chargers with our batteries. SLA chargers may shorten the lifespan of your lithium battery. 

Now that you've learned the benefits of Lithium batteries, find out which battery size is right for you with our guide here. Just click the link below. 

Guide to Buying the Right Size Battery