When choosing between Lithium-ion (Li-ion) and Lead-Acid batteries for industrial floor cleaning machines (scrubbers, sweepers, etc.), several factors must be considered, including cost, performance, lifespan, maintenance, and operational requirements. Below is a detailed comparison:
1. Energy Density & Runtime
Li-ion: Higher energy density (150-250 Wh/kg) → Longer runtime per charge (up to 2x longer than lead-acid in some cases).
Lead-Acid: Lower energy density (30-50 Wh/kg) → Shorter runtime, may require battery swaps in extended shifts.
2. Charging Speed & Efficiency
Li-ion:Charges 3-5x faster (1-3 hours for full charge).
No memory effect → Can be opportunity charged (partial charges without damage).
Lead-Acid:Slow charging (8-12 hours for full charge).
Requires full discharge cycles to avoid sulfation damage.
3. Lifespan & Durability
Li-ion:3,500 cycles (vs. 500-1,000 for lead-acid).
Retains ~80% capacity after 5+ years.
Lead-Acid 
egrades faster (~300-500 cycles if deeply discharged).
Requires regular watering (flooded types) and equalization charges.
4. Weight & Space Efficiency
Li-ion: 50-70% lighter → Improves machine maneuverability and reduces fatigue.
Lead-Acid: Heavy → May require counterweights but can be cheaper for low-budget applications.
5. Maintenance Requirements
Li-ion: Virtually maintenance-free (no watering, no acid leaks).
Lead-Acid:Flooded types need water top-ups and terminal cleaning.
AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) is maintenance-free but still less durable than Li-ion.
6. Temperature Sensitivity
Li-ion:Performs well in cold environments (with heating systems in some models).
High temps (>45°C) can degrade lifespan.
Lead-Acid:Loses capacity in cold weather (below 0°C).
More heat-tolerant but suffers from sulfation if undercharged.
7. Cost Comparison
Li-ion: 2-3x higher upfront cost but lower TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) due to longer lifespan.
Lead-Acid: Cheaper initially but higher replacement & maintenance costs over time.
8. Environmental Impact
Li-ion: More eco-friendly (no lead/acid, recyclable).
Lead-Acid: Contains toxic lead & sulfuric acid → Strict disposal regulations.
Choose Li-ion battery for longer runtime, fast charging, and minimal maintenance,lower TCO,etc.Especially for high-usage industrial cleaning (warehouses, factories, hospitals), Li-ion is the superior choice despite the higher initial cost.
Post time: Aug-07-2025