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Jiangsu Sunpower 30T Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.

Explore the Jiangsu Sunpower 30T cell for UAV applications, addressing weight vs power trade-offs to enhance drone performance and endurance.

Value Propositions

  • Cylindrical 18650 form factor for compact design.

  • Nominal capacity of 10.8 Wh and 3.0 Ah for efficient energy storage.

  • Top-quartile volumetric energy density of 615 Wh/l for lightweight solutions.

  • Gravimetric power density of 2,273 W/kg, ideal for high discharge applications.

  • Maximum continuous discharge of 30 A supports demanding UAV operations.

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About the Cell

The Jiangsu Sunpower 30T cell features a cylindrical 18650 form factor, optimised for UAV applications. With a nominal capacity of 10.8 Wh and 3.0 Ah, it provides a robust energy solution. The cell boasts a volumetric energy density of 615 Wh/l, placing it in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 541.67 Wh/l, which is crucial for applications requiring lightweight battery packs. Additionally, the gravimetric energy density of 227.37 Wh/kg is around the median, ensuring a balance between weight and energy storage. The volumetric power density is an impressive 6,153.85 W/l, significantly above the median of 2,029.31 W/l, making it suitable for high power demands in drone operations. Furthermore, the maximum continuous discharge rate of 30 A positions it well for high-performance UAV applications, allowing for efficient energy delivery during critical flight phases.

Application Challenges

In the aerospace sector, the challenge of balancing weight and power in UAV battery pack design is paramount. The Jiangsu Sunpower 30T cell addresses the need for lightweight solutions without compromising on energy output. As drones are increasingly used for long endurance missions, the ability to optimise battery weight directly impacts flight time and operational efficiency. The 30T's high energy density allows for extended flight durations, which is essential for applications such as surveillance, delivery, and industrial inspections. Moreover, ensuring that the battery can handle high discharge rates is critical to prevent overheating and ensure safety during operations. The challenge lies in selecting the right cell that meets these stringent requirements while also being cost-effective and reliable.

Why this Cell

The Jiangsu Sunpower 30T cell is an excellent choice for UAV applications due to its impressive specifications. With a volumetric energy density of 615 Wh/l, it is among the highest in the database, allowing for lightweight drone battery packs that do not compromise on performance. The gravimetric energy density of 227.37 Wh/kg is around the median, ensuring that the cell provides a good balance between weight and energy storage. Additionally, the maximum continuous discharge of 30 A supports high energy demands, making it ideal for applications that require rapid energy delivery. This cell's performance metrics align perfectly with the aerospace industry's need for efficient, reliable, and lightweight battery solutions, making it a top contender for drone battery design and UAV battery optimisation.

How Model-Based Design Helps

Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in optimising the selection of the Jiangsu Sunpower 30T cell for UAV 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 predictive capability allows for accurate assessments of voltage sag and usable energy, ensuring that the selected cell meets the operational requirements of the UAV. For instance, simulations can identify the optimal charge and discharge cycles, helping to prevent overheating and extend battery life. Furthermore, by using cell-specific data, designers can make informed decisions that enhance drone powertrain efficiency and improve overall mission reliability. This approach not only streamlines the design process but also mitigates risks associated with battery performance in critical applications.

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