Ampace 21700A Drone Application: Weight v Power Trade Off in Pack Design - How to Pick the Right Balance
Explore the Ampace 21700A cell for drones, optimising weight and power for enhanced performance and endurance in UAV applications.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor for versatile applications.
Nominal capacity of 14.8 Wh (4.0 Ah) for reliable energy delivery.
Top-quartile volumetric power density of 6,628 W/l for high performance.
Gravimetric energy density of 211 Wh/kg, ideal for lightweight designs.
Maximum continuous discharge of 45 A, supporting demanding UAV tasks.

About the Cell
The Ampace 21700A cell features a cylindrical 21700 form factor, providing a nominal capacity of 14.8 Wh (4.0 Ah). With a volumetric energy density of 589 Wh/l, it ranks among the highest in the database, offering significant advantages for drone applications. The gravimetric energy density of 211 Wh/kg ensures that the cell remains lightweight while delivering robust performance. Additionally, the cell boasts a volumetric power density of 6,628 W/l, which is top-quartile compared to the median of 2,029 W/l in the database, making it suitable for high-demand applications. The maximum continuous discharge rate of 45 A allows for efficient energy use during critical operations, ensuring that drones can perform optimally even under heavy loads. The Ampace 21700A is designed to meet the rigorous demands of drone battery design, UAV battery pack design, and custom UAV battery packs.
Application Challenges
In the context of drones, the challenge of balancing weight and power in battery pack design is crucial. Drones require lightweight battery solutions that do not compromise on energy output, especially for long endurance missions. The Ampace 21700A cell addresses this challenge effectively, providing high energy density while maintaining a manageable weight. The need for lightweight drone battery packs is paramount, as excess weight can significantly reduce flight time and overall performance. Furthermore, the ability to optimise UAV battery performance is essential for applications such as VTOL drone battery pack design and heavy lift drone batteries. The Ampace 21700A's specifications make it an ideal candidate for addressing these challenges, ensuring that drones can operate efficiently in various environments, including extreme conditions.
Why this Cell
The Ampace 21700A cell is particularly suited for drone applications due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge rate of 45 A, it supports high power demands, making it ideal for UAV battery optimisation. The cell's volumetric energy density of 589 Wh/l is significantly above the database median of 541.67 Wh/l, providing a competitive edge in energy delivery. Additionally, the gravimetric energy density of 211 Wh/kg is around the median, ensuring that the cell remains lightweight while delivering substantial power. This balance of energy and weight is critical for drone battery design, allowing for extended flight times and improved mission endurance. The Ampace 21700A is a prime choice for those looking to enhance drone performance without compromising on safety or efficiency.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a vital role in optimising the performance of the Ampace 21700A cell for drone applications. By modelling load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can predict how the cell will perform under various conditions. This approach allows for accurate assessments of energy delivery and thermal management, which are crucial for preventing overheating and ensuring safe operation. For instance, simulating the thermal rise during high discharge scenarios helps in selecting the right cell for specific missions, ensuring that the drone can operate effectively without risk of failure. Furthermore, simulation enables the identification of optimal charge and discharge rates, enhancing the overall efficiency of the UAV battery pack design. By leveraging these advanced modelling techniques, designers can make informed decisions that lead to better battery thermal management for drones and improved UAV battery performance testing.


