Ampace JP40 Safety and risk management - particularly around overheating and thermal runaway during flight. Drone Battery Design Challenges
Explore the Ampace JP40 cell for UAV applications, addressing safety and thermal challenges with high energy density and performance.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor for compact design.
Nominal capacity of 14.8 Wh and 4.0 Ah for reliable energy supply.
Volumetric energy density of 595 Wh/l, top-quartile vs median.
Gravimetric power density of 3,217 W/kg, among the highest in database.
Maximum continuous discharge of 60 A, top-quartile vs median.
About the Cell
The Ampace JP40 is a cylindrical 21700 lithium-ion cell designed for high-performance applications in the aerospace sector. With a nominal capacity of 14.8 Wh and 4.0 Ah, it provides a reliable energy source for UAVs. The cell boasts a volumetric energy density of 595 Wh/l, which is in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 541.67 Wh/l. Additionally, its gravimetric energy density of 214.49 Wh/kg is around the median, ensuring a lightweight solution for drone battery packs. The JP40 also features a volumetric power density of 8,930 W/l, which is among the highest in the database, allowing for efficient power delivery during demanding flight operations. Its maximum continuous discharge rate of 60 A positions it in the top-quartile compared to the median of 30 A, making it suitable for high discharge applications.
Application Challenges
In the aerospace sector, particularly for UAVs, safety and risk management are paramount. The challenges include preventing overheating and thermal runaway during flight, which can compromise mission success and safety. The Ampace JP40 cell's high energy density is crucial for long endurance drone batteries, enabling extended flight times while maintaining safety standards. The ability to manage thermal performance effectively is essential, especially in harsh environments where temperature fluctuations can impact battery performance. The JP40's design addresses these challenges by providing a robust solution that balances energy needs with safety considerations.
Why this Cell
The Ampace JP40 cell is specifically engineered to meet the rigorous demands of UAV applications. Its high volumetric energy density of 595 Wh/l ensures that drones can carry more energy without increasing weight, which is critical for long endurance missions. The maximum continuous discharge rate of 60 A positions it in the top-quartile, allowing for high discharge applications without overheating. This capability is vital for drone battery design, where performance under load is essential. Furthermore, the gravimetric power density of 3,217 W/kg is among the highest in the database, ensuring that the JP40 can deliver power efficiently during critical flight phases.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in optimising the performance of the Ampace JP40 cell for UAV 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 the identification of potential overheating issues and ensures that the cell can deliver the required thrust and energy throughout the flight envelope. For instance, simulating different flight scenarios helps in understanding the thermal rise and usable energy, enabling the selection of the most suitable cell for specific missions. This predictive capability is essential for ensuring reliability and safety in drone operations, particularly in extreme environments.
