Amprius SA08 Safety and risk management - particularly around overheating and thermal runaway during flight.
Discover the Amprius SA08 cell, designed for UAV applications, addressing overheating and thermal runaway challenges with high energy density.
Value Propositions
Pouch form factor with nominal capacity of 36.72 Wh and 10.8 Ah.
Volumetric energy density of 730 Wh/l, placing it in the top-quartile vs median.
Gravimetric energy density of 338 Wh/kg, significantly above the median.
Maximum continuous discharge of 54 A, ensuring high performance under demanding conditions.
Volumetric power density of 3652 W/l, among the highest in the database.
About the Cell
The Amprius SA08 cell is a cutting-edge lithium-ion battery designed specifically for UAV applications. With a nominal capacity of 36.72 Wh and 10.8 Ah, it provides substantial energy storage in a compact pouch form factor. The cell boasts a volumetric energy density of 730 Wh/l, which is in the top-quartile compared to the median of 541 Wh/l in the database. Its gravimetric energy density of 338 Wh/kg is also significantly above the median of 210 Wh/kg, making it an excellent choice for applications requiring lightweight solutions. The maximum continuous discharge rate of 54 A ensures that the cell can handle high power demands, while the volumetric power density of 3652 W/l places it among the highest in the database, making it suitable for high-performance UAVs.
Application Challenges
In the context of EVTOL and safety and risk management, particularly around overheating and thermal runaway during flight, the Amprius SA08 cell addresses critical challenges. UAVs operate in environments where thermal management is paramount. The high energy density of the SA08 allows for longer flight times, which is essential for mission success. However, with increased energy comes the risk of overheating and thermal runaway. The ability to manage these risks effectively is crucial for ensuring the safety of operations. The SA08's design mitigates these risks through advanced thermal management capabilities, allowing for reliable performance even in extreme conditions.
Why this Cell
The Amprius SA08 cell is uniquely suited for UAV applications due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous charge rate of 32.4 A and a maximum continuous discharge rate of 54 A, it provides the necessary power for demanding flight profiles. The cell's volumetric energy density of 730 Wh/l is significantly above the median, allowing for extended flight times without compromising safety. Additionally, the high gravimetric power density of 1692 W/kg ensures that the cell can deliver power quickly when needed, making it ideal for applications that require rapid acceleration or high thrust. These features make the SA08 a top choice for UAV manufacturers looking to optimise performance while managing safety risks.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a critical role in the development and optimisation of the Amprius SA08 cell for UAV applications. By simulating various load profiles, engineers can predict how the cell will behave under different conditions, including thermal rise and voltage sag. This predictive capability allows for the identification of potential overheating issues before they occur, enabling proactive design adjustments. Furthermore, modelling usable energy helps in determining the effective range and performance of the UAV during missions. This approach not only enhances the reliability of the battery but also supports the selection of the best cell for specific mission profiles, ensuring that UAVs can operate safely and efficiently in challenging environments.
