BAK 45D 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 BAK 45D cell for fast charging UAV batteries, optimising performance while preventing overheating and lithium plating issues.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor for compact design.
Nominal capacity of 15.84 Wh and 4.4 Ah for efficient energy storage.
Top-quartile power density (+58% vs median 750 W/kg) for brisk current draws.
Maximum continuous discharge of 60 A, ideal for high-demand applications.
Volumetric energy density of 619 Wh/l, ensuring lightweight solutions.
About the Cell
The BAK 45D cell features a cylindrical 21700 form factor, optimised for drone applications. With a nominal capacity of 15.84 Wh (4.4 Ah), it delivers impressive energy storage. The cell boasts a volumetric energy density of 619 Wh/l, which is significantly above the median of 541.67 Wh/l, making it an excellent choice for lightweight drone battery packs. Additionally, its gravimetric energy density of 229.57 Wh/kg is around the median, ensuring a good balance between weight and energy. The cell's volumetric power density of 8447.4 W/l is among the highest in the database, providing robust performance for demanding applications. Furthermore, the maximum continuous discharge rate of 60 A (13.6 C) positions it in the top-quartile compared to the median of 30 A, making it suitable for high discharge rate UAV batteries. These specifications make the BAK 45D an ideal candidate for fast charging applications in UAVs, where efficiency and safety are paramount.
Application Challenges
In the EVTOL sector, fast charging of batteries is critical to operational efficiency. The challenge lies in charging the BAK 45D cell quickly without overheating or causing lithium plating, which can degrade the battery and pose safety risks. Rapid charging increases the risk of thermal runaway, especially in high-performance applications where the cell is subjected to high currents. The BAK 45D's maximum continuous charge rate of 13.2 A (3.0 C) allows for efficient charging, but careful thermal management is essential to prevent overheating. This necessitates advanced battery thermal management strategies to maintain optimal operating temperatures during rapid charge cycles. The ability to charge quickly while ensuring the longevity and safety of the battery is a primary concern for UAV manufacturers, particularly in applications requiring long endurance and reliability.
Why this Cell
The BAK 45D cell is specifically designed to meet the demands of fast charging in UAV applications. With a maximum continuous charge rate of 13.2 A (3.0 C), it allows for rapid energy replenishment, which is crucial for maintaining operational readiness in fast-paced environments. The cell's volumetric energy density of 619 Wh/l ensures that it can store a significant amount of energy in a compact form, making it ideal for lightweight drone battery packs. Additionally, its top-quartile power density of 8447.4 W/l supports high current draws, essential for applications that require quick bursts of power. This combination of high energy and power density, along with robust thermal management capabilities, positions the BAK 45D as a leading choice for UAV manufacturers looking to optimise battery performance while addressing the challenges of fast charging.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in optimising the performance of the BAK 45D cell for fast charging applications. By modelling load profiles, engineers can predict how the cell will behave under various charging conditions, including thermal rise and voltage sag. This predictive capability allows for the identification of optimal charging strategies that minimise the risk of overheating and lithium plating. For instance, simulations can help determine the ideal charge current to maintain safe operating temperatures while achieving rapid charge times. Additionally, by analysing the usable energy across different scenarios, designers can ensure that the cell delivers the required performance without compromising safety. This approach not only enhances the reliability of UAV operations but also reduces the need for costly trial-and-error testing, ultimately leading to more efficient battery design and deployment.
