BAK N18650CNP Drones Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Explore the BAK N18650CNP cell for drones, optimising weight and power for enhanced performance in UAV applications. Discover its advantages today.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 18650 form factor for versatile applications.
Nominal capacity of 9.0 Wh and 2.5 Ah for reliable energy supply.
Top-quartile volumetric energy density of 525 Wh/l for compact designs.
Maximum continuous discharge of 30.0 A, ideal for high-demand UAVs.
Gravimetric power density of 2,298 W/kg, supporting efficient energy use.

About the Cell
The BAK N18650CNP cell is designed in a cylindrical 18650 form factor, offering a nominal capacity of 9.0 Wh and 2.5 Ah. With a volumetric energy density of 525 Wh/l, it stands out in the market, being in the top-quartile compared to the median of 542 Wh/l. Its gravimetric energy density of 191 Wh/kg is around the median, providing a balanced weight-to-energy ratio. The cell also boasts a maximum continuous discharge of 30.0 A, which is among the highest in the database, ensuring it can handle demanding applications in drone technology. Additionally, the volumetric power density of 6,297 W/l is significantly higher than the median of 2,029 W/l, making it an excellent choice for high-performance UAVs. This combination of features makes the N18650CNP a prime candidate for applications requiring lightweight and efficient energy solutions.
Application Challenges
In the realm of drones, the challenge of balancing weight and power in battery pack design is critical. The BAK N18650CNP cell addresses this challenge effectively. Drones require batteries that not only provide sufficient energy for extended flight times but also maintain a lightweight profile to enhance manoeuvrability and efficiency. The weight versus power trade-off is essential for optimising UAV performance, particularly in applications such as long endurance missions and heavy lift operations. The ability to select the right battery cell can significantly impact the overall mission success, ensuring that drones can operate effectively in various environments while meeting stringent weight requirements.
Why this Cell
The BAK N18650CNP cell is particularly suited for drone applications due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge of 30.0 A, it supports high energy demands, making it ideal for UAVs that require rapid bursts of power. The cell's volumetric energy density of 525 Wh/l places it in the top-quartile compared to the median, allowing for compact battery designs without sacrificing performance. This is crucial for applications where space is limited, such as in VTOL drone designs. Furthermore, the gravimetric power density of 2,298 W/kg ensures that the cell can deliver energy efficiently, which is vital for extending flight times and improving UAV mission endurance. By choosing the N18650CNP, designers can achieve a better balance between weight and power, leading to enhanced operational capabilities.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a pivotal role in optimising battery selection for drones. By simulating load profiles and thermal behaviour, engineers can accurately predict how the BAK N18650CNP cell will perform under various conditions. This includes modelling voltage sag, heat generation, and usable energy across different flight scenarios. Such simulations enable designers to make informed decisions about cell selection, ensuring that the chosen battery meets the specific demands of the mission profile. For instance, understanding the thermal characteristics of the N18650CNP can prevent overheating and enhance safety during operation. Additionally, simulations can help in predicting the state of charge (SoC) accurately, which is crucial for mission planning and reliability. By leveraging these advanced modelling techniques, UAV manufacturers can optimise their battery packs for performance, safety, and efficiency.


