BAK N18650CNP Safety and risk management - particularly around overheating and thermal runaway during flight.
Explore the BAK N18650CNP cell for EVTOL applications, designed for safety and risk management against overheating and thermal runaway during flight.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 18650 form factor with nominal capacity of 9.0 Wh.
Gravimetric energy density of 191 Wh/kg, around median for high-performance cells.
Volumetric energy density of 525 Wh/l, top-quartile vs median.
Maximum continuous discharge of 30 A, among the highest in the database.
Standard charge current of 1.25 A, suitable for efficient charging.

About the Cell
The BAK N18650CNP cell features a cylindrical 18650 form factor, with a nominal capacity of 9.0 Wh and a nominal charge capacity of 2.5 Ah. Its volumetric energy density is 525 Wh/l, placing it in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 542 Wh/l. The gravimetric energy density is 191 Wh/kg, which is around the median for lithium-ion cells. The cell also boasts a volumetric power density of 6297 W/l, which is among the highest in the database, and a gravimetric power density of 2298 W/kg, providing excellent performance for UAV applications. With a standard charge current of 1.25 A and a maximum continuous charge of 5.0 A, this cell is designed for efficient charging and high energy output.
Application Challenges
In EVTOL applications, safety and risk management are paramount, particularly concerning overheating and thermal runaway during flight. The BAK N18650CNP cell's high energy density and robust thermal management capabilities are essential for ensuring reliable performance in demanding conditions. The risk of thermal runaway can compromise flight safety, making it critical to select cells that can withstand high discharge rates and maintain stable temperatures. The nominal capacity of 9.0 Wh is crucial for extending flight times, while the maximum continuous discharge of 30 A ensures that the cell can handle the power demands of various UAV missions.
Why this Cell
The BAK N18650CNP cell is an ideal choice for EVTOL applications due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge of 30 A, it is among the highest in the database, ensuring that it can deliver the necessary power for demanding flight profiles. Its volumetric energy density of 525 Wh/l is in the top-quartile compared to the median, providing long endurance capabilities for UAVs. The cell's lightweight design, with a mass of only 47 g, contributes to overall flight efficiency, making it a suitable option for custom UAV battery packs. Additionally, the cell's thermal management features help prevent overheating, addressing a critical challenge in drone battery design.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in optimising the performance of the BAK N18650CNP cell for EVTOL applications. By modelling load profiles and thermal behaviour, engineers can predict how the cell will perform under various conditions, including high discharge rates and temperature fluctuations. This approach allows for the selection of the most suitable cells based on real-world scenarios, reducing the risk of thermal runaway and improving overall safety. Additionally, simulations can help in determining the optimal charging strategies, ensuring that the cell is charged efficiently without compromising its lifespan. By leveraging cell-specific data, designers can make informed decisions that enhance the reliability and performance of UAV battery packs.


