Amprius SA65 Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Explore the Amprius SA65 cell for UAV applications, optimising weight and power for enhanced drone performance and endurance.
Value Propositions
Pouch form factor with nominal capacity of 4.38 Wh (1.27 Ah) for efficient energy storage.
High volumetric energy density of 458 Wh/l, ensuring compact design for UAV applications.
Gravimetric energy density of 359 Wh/kg, ideal for lightweight drone battery packs.
Maximum continuous discharge of 5.1 A, supporting high discharge rate UAV batteries.
Volumetric power density of 1839 W/l, among the highest in the database for rapid energy delivery.
About the Cell
The Amprius SA65 cell features a pouch form factor, providing a nominal capacity of 4.38 Wh and 1.27 Ah. With a volumetric energy density of 458 Wh/l, it is designed for applications where space is at a premium. The gravimetric energy density stands at 359 Wh/kg, making it suitable for lightweight drone battery packs. The cell also boasts a maximum continuous discharge of 5.1 A, which is crucial for high discharge rate UAV batteries. Additionally, its volumetric power density of 1839 W/l is among the highest in the database, allowing for rapid energy delivery during flight. This combination of features makes the SA65 an excellent choice for UAV applications, particularly in scenarios where weight and power trade-offs are critical. Compared to the database median values, the SA65's volumetric energy density is significantly above average, providing an edge in energy storage efficiency.
Application Challenges
In the context of EVTOL and the weight versus power trade-off in pack design, selecting the right battery cell is paramount. Drones require a careful balance between weight and power to ensure optimal performance and endurance. The Amprius SA65 cell addresses these challenges by offering a high energy density, which allows for longer flight times without adding excessive weight. This is particularly important in UAV applications where every gram counts, and the ability to extend drone flight time is essential for mission success. The SA65's specifications enable it to meet the demands of various UAV missions, from industrial inspections to heavy-lift operations, where reliability and efficiency are critical. Furthermore, the challenge of preventing battery overheating during high discharge scenarios is mitigated by the cell's robust thermal performance, ensuring safe operation even under demanding conditions.
Why this Cell
The Amprius SA65 cell is specifically designed to meet the challenges of EVTOL applications, particularly in balancing weight and power. With a maximum continuous discharge of 5.1 A, it supports high discharge rate UAV batteries, making it suitable for demanding flight profiles. The cell's volumetric energy density of 458 Wh/l is significantly above the database median, providing a competitive advantage in energy storage. This allows UAV designers to optimise battery packs for longer endurance without compromising on weight. Additionally, the gravimetric energy density of 359 Wh/kg ensures that the cell remains lightweight, which is crucial for maintaining flight efficiency. By choosing the SA65, engineers can achieve the best batteries for drone endurance, ensuring that their UAVs can perform reliably in various operational scenarios.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a critical role in optimising the performance of the Amprius SA65 cell for UAV applications. By modelling load profiles and thermal behaviour, engineers can accurately predict how the cell will perform under different conditions. This includes assessing voltage sag, heat generation, and usable energy throughout the flight envelope. For instance, simulations can help determine the optimal charge and discharge rates, ensuring that the cell operates within safe thermal limits while delivering the required power. This approach not only aids in selecting the best cell for specific missions but also enhances overall UAV performance by enabling precise battery thermal management. By leveraging cell-specific data, designers can make informed decisions that improve UAV mission endurance and reliability, ultimately leading to successful operations in challenging environments.
