Amprius SA11: Maximise flight time - optimise the cell selection, duty cycle and flight speed to maximise flight time.
Explore the Amprius SA11 cell for UAV applications, designed to maximise flight time while overcoming core technical challenges in drone battery design.
Value Propositions
Pouch form factor with nominal capacity of 105.0 Wh and 30.0 Ah.
Volumetric energy density of 725 Wh/l, top-quartile vs median of 542 Wh/l.
Gravimetric energy density of 334 Wh/kg, +59% vs database median of 210 Wh/kg.
Maximum continuous discharge of 90 A, top-quartile vs median of 30 A.
Volumetric power density of 2,174 W/l, +7% vs database median of 2,029 W/l.
About the Cell
The Amprius SA11 cell is designed in a pouch form factor, providing a nominal capacity of 105.0 Wh and 30.0 Ah. With a volumetric energy density of 725 Wh/l, it ranks in the top-quartile compared to the median of 542 Wh/l in the database. Its gravimetric energy density of 334 Wh/kg is +59% higher than the median of 210 Wh/kg, making it an excellent choice for applications requiring high energy density. The cell also boasts a maximum continuous discharge of 90 A, which is significantly above the median of 30 A, ensuring robust performance under demanding conditions. Additionally, the volumetric power density of 2,174 W/l is +7% higher than the median of 2,029 W/l, indicating its capability to deliver power efficiently during operation. This combination of high energy and power densities makes the SA11 particularly suitable for UAV applications where weight and space are critical factors.
Application Challenges
In the aerospace sector, maximising flight time is crucial for UAVs. This involves optimising cell selection, duty cycle, and flight speed to enhance endurance. The Amprius SA11 cell addresses these challenges by providing high energy density, which is essential for extending flight duration. In practical terms, achieving longer flight times means that drones can cover more ground, conduct thorough inspections, or complete missions without the need for frequent recharging. The ability to maintain performance under varying loads and temperatures is vital, especially in harsh environments where reliability is paramount. Therefore, selecting the right battery cell is not just about capacity; it is about ensuring that the drone can perform consistently across its operational envelope.
Why this Cell
The Amprius SA11 cell is ideal for aerospace applications focused on maximising flight time. Its nominal capacity of 105.0 Wh and high energy densities (725 Wh/l and 334 Wh/kg) ensure that UAVs can operate longer without compromising performance. The maximum continuous discharge of 90 A positions it in the top-quartile compared to the median of 30 A, allowing for high power output when needed. This capability is essential for applications such as heavy-lift missions or rapid manoeuvres where energy demands spike. Furthermore, the cell's volumetric power density of 2,174 W/l supports efficient energy delivery, making it a reliable choice for UAV battery optimisation. By leveraging the SA11, engineers can design drone battery packs that not only meet but exceed endurance expectations, ultimately leading to improved mission success rates.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a critical role in optimising the selection of battery cells for UAV applications. By modelling load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can predict how the Amprius SA11 cell will perform under various conditions. This includes assessing heat generation during high discharge scenarios and understanding how energy is utilised throughout the flight. Such simulations allow for accurate predictions of usable energy and help in identifying the optimal duty cycle for specific missions. By employing these techniques, designers can avoid costly trial-and-error testing and ensure that the selected cell meets the required performance metrics. This approach not only enhances the reliability of UAV operations but also contributes to safer and more efficient mission planning.
