Amprius SA65 Cell for EVTOL: Maximise flight time - optimise the cell selection, duty cycle and flight speed to maximise flight time.
Discover the Amprius SA65 cell designed for EVTOL applications, optimising flight time and addressing core technical challenges in drone battery design.
Value Propositions
Pouch form factor with nominal capacity of 4.38 Wh and 1.27 Ah.
Volumetric energy density of 458 Wh/l, top-quartile vs median of 542 Wh/l.
Gravimetric energy density of 359 Wh/kg, around median of 210 Wh/kg.
Maximum continuous discharge of 5.1 A, top-quartile vs median of 30 A.
Volumetric power density of 1,839 W/l, around median of 2,029 W/l.
About the Cell
The Amprius SA65 cell is designed specifically for EVTOL applications, featuring a pouch form factor that allows for a nominal capacity of 4.38 Wh and 1.27 Ah. With a volumetric energy density of 458 Wh/l, it ranks in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 542 Wh/l, making it an excellent choice for applications requiring high energy density. The gravimetric energy density of 359 Wh/kg is around the median of 210 Wh/kg, providing a lightweight solution for drone battery packs. Additionally, the cell boasts a maximum continuous discharge of 5.1 A, which is top-quartile compared to the median of 30 A, ensuring reliable performance during demanding flight conditions. The volumetric power density of 1,839 W/l is around the median of 2,029 W/l, indicating robust power delivery capabilities for various UAV applications.
Application Challenges
In the EVTOL sector, maximising flight time is critical. The Amprius SA65 cell addresses this challenge by optimising cell selection, duty cycle, and flight speed. High energy density is essential for extending flight duration, particularly in applications such as industrial inspections or emergency services where every minute of airtime is crucial. The ability to maintain performance under varying conditions, including temperature fluctuations and load demands, is vital. The SA65 cell's specifications allow for effective thermal management and energy utilisation, which are key to preventing overheating and ensuring safe operation during extended missions. Furthermore, accurate state-of-charge (SoC) prediction is necessary to avoid mid-air failures, making the SA65 a reliable choice for UAV operators.
Why this Cell
The Amprius SA65 cell is engineered to meet the demanding requirements of EVTOL applications. With a maximum continuous charge of 1.34 A and a maximum continuous discharge of 5.1 A, it supports high discharge rates essential for UAV battery optimisation. The cell's volumetric energy density of 458 Wh/l, which is in the top-quartile compared to the median of 542 Wh/l, allows for lightweight drone battery packs that do not compromise on performance. This is particularly important for long endurance drone batteries, where weight directly impacts flight time. The gravimetric energy density of 359 Wh/kg, around the median of 210 Wh/kg, further enhances its appeal for applications requiring high energy output without excessive weight. Overall, the SA65 cell's specifications align perfectly with the need to maximise flight time and optimise the cell selection for various UAV missions.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in the selection and optimisation of the Amprius SA65 cell for EVTOL applications. By modelling load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can predict how the cell will perform under different flight conditions. This approach allows for the identification of optimal duty cycles and flight speeds that maximise energy efficiency and minimise the risk of overheating. For instance, simulations can reveal how the cell's performance varies with temperature and state-of-charge, enabling operators to make informed decisions about mission feasibility. Furthermore, by benchmarking the SA65 against other high-energy cells, engineers can ensure that the selected battery provides the best possible performance for specific UAV applications. This data-driven approach reduces reliance on trial-and-error testing, ultimately leading to safer and more efficient drone operations.
