Amprius SA88 Fast charge of the batteries - how to charge the battery quickly without overheating the cells or causing lithium plating which could degrade the battery or cause it to catch fire.
Discover the Amprius SA88 cell for fast charging in EVTOL applications, optimising performance while preventing overheating and degradation.
Value Propositions
Pouch form factor with nominal capacity of 33.15 Wh and 9.75 Ah.
Volumetric energy density of 777 Wh/l, placing it in the top-quartile vs median.
Gravimetric energy density of 356 Wh/kg, significantly above the median.
Maximum continuous charge of 100 A, among the highest in the database.
Volumetric power density of 7968 W/l, +62% vs database median of 2029 W/l.
About the Cell
The Amprius SA88 cell is designed for high-performance applications, featuring a pouch form factor that allows for efficient energy storage. With a nominal capacity of 33.15 Wh and 9.75 Ah, it delivers impressive energy density metrics. The volumetric energy density of 777 Wh/l places it in the top-quartile compared to the median of 541.67 Wh/l, while the gravimetric energy density of 356 Wh/kg is significantly above the median of 210 Wh/kg. This cell is engineered to support demanding applications, particularly in EVTOL environments where rapid charging is essential. The maximum continuous charge capability of 100 A is among the highest in the database, ensuring that the cell can handle intense charging scenarios without compromising safety. Furthermore, the volumetric power density of 7968 W/l is +62% compared to the database median, making it suitable for applications requiring high power output.
Application Challenges
In the EVTOL sector, fast charging of batteries is critical to operational efficiency. The challenge lies in charging the battery quickly without overheating the cells or causing lithium plating, which can degrade the battery and potentially lead to safety hazards. High charge currents are necessary to reduce downtime, but they must be managed carefully to prevent thermal runaway. The Amprius SA88 cell, with its high maximum continuous charge of 100 A, is designed to meet these demands. Effective thermal management strategies are essential to ensure that the battery operates within safe temperature limits during rapid charging. This is particularly important in UAV applications where mission success depends on reliable battery performance under varying conditions.
Why this Cell
The Amprius SA88 cell is an excellent choice for fast charging applications in EVTOL systems. Its maximum continuous charge rate of 100 A allows for rapid energy replenishment, which is crucial for maintaining operational readiness. Additionally, the cell's volumetric energy density of 777 Wh/l and gravimetric energy density of 356 Wh/kg provide the necessary energy storage without adding excessive weight. Compared to the database median, the SA88's energy densities are significantly higher, ensuring that UAVs can achieve longer flight times and improved mission endurance. The cell's design also mitigates the risks associated with overheating, making it a safe option for high-performance drone applications.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a vital role in optimising the performance of the Amprius SA88 cell in EVTOL applications. By modelling load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can predict how the cell will perform under various charging conditions. This predictive capability allows for the identification of optimal charging strategies that minimise the risk of overheating and lithium plating. Additionally, simulations can help determine the best operational parameters to maximise energy efficiency and flight time. By leveraging cell-specific data, designers can make informed decisions that enhance the overall reliability and safety of UAV battery systems, ensuring that they meet the rigorous demands of fast charging in dynamic environments.
