Kokam SLPB98188216P Drones Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Explore the Kokam SLPB98188216P cell for drones, optimising weight and power for efficient UAV battery pack design and performance.
Value Propositions
Pouch form factor for lightweight design.
Nominal capacity of 111.0 Wh for extended flight times.
Top-quartile power density (+58% vs median 2,029 W/l) for high discharge applications.
Gravimetric energy density of 128 Wh/kg supports lightweight UAV designs.
Maximum continuous discharge of 600 A enables robust performance under load.

About the Cell
The Kokam SLPB98188216P cell features a pouch form factor, optimising space and weight for drone applications. With a nominal capacity of 111.0 Wh and a nominal discharge capacity of 30.0 Ah, it provides a reliable power source for various UAV missions. The cell boasts a volumetric energy density of 257 Wh/l, which is around the median for similar cells, ensuring efficient use of space in battery pack design. Additionally, its gravimetric energy density of 128 Wh/kg is crucial for maintaining a lightweight profile, essential for drone performance. The cell's volumetric power density of 5,148 W/l is among the highest in the database, allowing for quick bursts of power when needed. Furthermore, the maximum continuous discharge rate of 600 A supports demanding applications, making it suitable for high-performance drones operating in challenging environments.
Application Challenges
In the realm of drones, achieving the right balance between weight and power is critical. The challenge lies in selecting battery cells that not only provide sufficient energy for extended flight times but also maintain a lightweight profile to enhance overall drone efficiency. The Kokam SLPB98188216P cell addresses these challenges effectively, offering a nominal capacity of 111.0 Wh, which is essential for long endurance missions. Additionally, the high discharge capabilities ensure that the drone can perform demanding tasks without compromising safety or performance. The weight versus power trade-off is particularly significant in UAV applications, where every gram counts towards payload capacity and flight efficiency. Therefore, optimising battery design with cells like the SLPB98188216P is vital for meeting the rigorous demands of modern drone operations.
Why this Cell
The Kokam SLPB98188216P cell is an excellent choice for drone applications due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge of 600 A, it stands out in the market, being in the top-quartile compared to the median of 30 A. This capability is crucial for high-performance UAVs that require rapid power delivery during flight. Additionally, the cell's volumetric energy density of 257 Wh/l is around the median, ensuring that it fits well within the constraints of compact drone designs. The gravimetric energy density of 128 Wh/kg further supports lightweight drone battery packs, making it easier to achieve longer flight times without adding unnecessary weight. These features make the SLPB98188216P a prime candidate for drone battery cell selection, particularly in applications where energy efficiency and power output are paramount.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a pivotal role in optimising drone battery performance. By simulating load profiles and thermal behaviour, engineers can predict how the Kokam SLPB98188216P cell will perform under various conditions. This includes assessing voltage sag during high discharge scenarios and understanding the thermal rise associated with continuous operation. Such modelling allows for the identification of the most suitable cells for specific missions, ensuring that the selected battery can deliver the required thrust and energy throughout the flight envelope. Furthermore, simulation helps in predicting the state of charge (SoC) accurately, which is essential for mission planning and reliability. By leveraging these advanced design techniques, manufacturers can avoid costly trial-and-error testing and ensure that their drones are equipped with the best possible battery solutions for their operational needs.


