LG Chem H51 Drones 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 LG Chem H51 cell for drones, designed for fast charging without overheating, ensuring safety and efficiency in UAV applications.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor for compact design.
Nominal capacity of 18.2 Wh and 5.0 Ah for reliable performance.
Top-quartile volumetric energy density of 725 Wh/l for extended flight times.
Maximum continuous discharge of 25 A, ensuring high power output.
Gravimetric power density of 1291 W/kg, ideal for lightweight UAV applications.

About the Cell
The LG Chem H51 cell features a cylindrical 21700 form factor, providing a nominal capacity of 18.2 Wh and 5.0 Ah. With a volumetric energy density of 725 Wh/l, it ranks in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 541.67 Wh/l, making it suitable for long endurance drone batteries. The gravimetric energy density of 258.16 Wh/kg is also noteworthy, being around the median of 210 Wh/kg. The cell's maximum continuous discharge rate of 25 A is impressive, placing it in the top-quartile against the median of 30 A. Additionally, the volumetric power density of 3626.94 W/l is among the highest in the database, significantly enhancing drone performance during high-demand operations. This combination of features makes the H51 an excellent choice for UAV battery pack design, particularly in applications requiring rapid charging and high energy output.
Application Challenges
In the context of drones, fast charging presents unique challenges. The need to charge batteries quickly without overheating or causing lithium plating is critical for maintaining safety and performance. High discharge rates are essential for UAVs, especially during takeoff and manoeuvring. The LG Chem H51 cell addresses these challenges with its maximum continuous discharge rate of 25 A, which supports high power demands. Furthermore, the cell's thermal management capabilities are crucial in preventing overheating, ensuring that drones can operate efficiently in various environments. The ability to maintain performance under rapid charging conditions is vital for extending drone flight time and improving mission endurance, making the H51 a reliable choice for UAV applications.
Why this Cell
The LG Chem H51 cell is specifically designed for drone applications, offering a nominal capacity of 18.2 Wh and a maximum continuous discharge of 25 A. This performance is critical for fast charging scenarios, where rapid energy transfer is necessary without compromising safety. The cell's volumetric energy density of 725 Wh/l is significantly above the median, allowing for longer flight times and improved UAV mission endurance. Additionally, the gravimetric power density of 1290.78 W/kg ensures that the cell remains lightweight, which is essential for maintaining drone efficiency. These metrics highlight why the H51 is an ideal choice for custom UAV battery packs, providing both power and safety in demanding applications.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in optimising the performance of the LG Chem H51 cell for drone applications. By modelling load profiles and thermal behaviour, engineers can predict how the cell will perform under various charging conditions. This includes assessing voltage sag and heat generation during rapid charging, which are critical factors in preventing overheating and ensuring safe operation. The ability to simulate different scenarios allows for the selection of the most suitable cell for specific missions, enhancing reliability and performance. For instance, understanding the thermal rise during high discharge rates can inform design choices that mitigate risks associated with lithium plating. Overall, simulation enables a data-driven approach to UAV battery design, ensuring that the H51 cell meets the rigorous demands of drone operations.


