Ampace 21700A Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Discover the Ampace 21700A cell for UAV applications, optimising weight and power trade-offs for enhanced drone performance and endurance.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor for versatile applications.
Nominal capacity of 14.8 Wh and 4.0 Ah for reliable energy supply.
Top-quartile volumetric energy density of 589 Wh/l for compact designs.
Maximum continuous discharge of 45 A, ideal for high-demand UAVs.
Gravimetric power density of 2,379 W/kg, supporting rapid energy delivery.
About the Cell
The Ampace 21700A cell is designed in a cylindrical 21700 form factor, providing a nominal capacity of 14.8 Wh and 4.0 Ah. With a volumetric energy density of 589 Wh/l, it ranks in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 542 Wh/l, making it suitable for applications where space is at a premium. The gravimetric energy density of 211.429 Wh/kg is around the median, ensuring a balance between weight and energy storage. Additionally, the cell boasts a maximum continuous discharge rate of 45 A, which is significantly higher than the median of 30 A, allowing for robust performance in demanding scenarios. The volumetric power density of 6,628 W/l is among the highest in the database, ensuring that the cell can deliver power efficiently when needed. With a standard charge current of 2.0 A and a maximum continuous charge of 8.0 A, this cell is designed for quick turnaround times in UAV applications.
Application Challenges
In the context of EVTOL and the weight versus power trade-off in pack design, selecting the right battery cell is crucial. UAVs, especially those designed for long endurance missions, require batteries that not only provide sufficient energy but also maintain a lightweight profile. The challenge lies in balancing these two factors to ensure optimal flight performance. For instance, a heavier battery may provide more energy but can reduce flight time and efficiency. Conversely, a lightweight battery may not deliver the required power for demanding tasks. Therefore, understanding the specific energy and power needs of the UAV is essential for effective battery selection. The Ampace 21700A cell addresses these challenges with its high energy density and robust discharge capabilities, making it a suitable choice for various UAV applications.
Why this Cell
The Ampace 21700A cell stands out in the UAV market due to its impressive specifications. With a volumetric energy density of 589 Wh/l, it is positioned in the top-quartile compared to the median of 542 Wh/l, allowing for compact battery designs that do not compromise on energy supply. Additionally, its maximum continuous discharge rate of 45 A is significantly higher than the median of 30 A, making it ideal for high-demand applications where rapid energy delivery is critical. This cell's gravimetric power density of 2,379 W/kg supports efficient energy use, ensuring that UAVs can achieve longer flight times without the burden of excessive weight. These features make the Ampace 21700A an excellent choice for UAV battery pack design, particularly in scenarios where performance and reliability are paramount.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a vital role in optimising UAV battery selection and performance. By simulating load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage responses, engineers can accurately predict how the Ampace 21700A cell will perform under various conditions. For example, modelling the thermal rise during high discharge scenarios helps in selecting cells that can maintain safe operating temperatures, thus preventing overheating and potential failures. Additionally, simulations can assess the usable energy across different flight profiles, allowing for informed decisions on battery sizing and configuration. This approach reduces the risk of trial-and-error testing, enabling manufacturers to select the most suitable cells for their UAV applications right from the start, ultimately leading to enhanced mission reliability and efficiency.
