LG Chem H51 Drones Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Explore the LG Chem H51 cell for drones, optimising weight and power for enhanced performance and endurance in UAV applications.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor for compact design.
Nominal capacity of 18.2 Wh, suitable for various UAV applications.
Top-quartile volumetric energy density of 725 Wh/l for efficient space utilisation.
Maximum continuous discharge of 25 A, ideal for high-performance UAVs.
Gravimetric energy density of 258 Wh/kg, supporting lightweight drone battery packs.
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 an excellent choice for drone applications where space is at a premium. The gravimetric energy density of 258 Wh/kg is also notable, being significantly above the median of 210 Wh/kg, which supports the development of lightweight drone battery packs. Furthermore, the cell boasts a maximum continuous discharge rate of 25 A, which is well above the median of 30 A, ensuring that it can handle the demanding power requirements of UAVs. The volumetric power density of 3626.94 W/l is among the highest in the database, facilitating rapid energy delivery during critical flight phases.
Application Challenges
In the context of drones, the challenge of balancing weight and power in battery pack design is crucial. UAVs require batteries that not only provide sufficient energy for extended flight times but also maintain a lightweight profile to enhance overall performance. The LG Chem H51 cell addresses these challenges effectively, offering high energy density and power output. The ability to optimise battery weight directly impacts flight time and mission success, making the selection of the right cell vital for UAV manufacturers. The trade-off between energy capacity and weight is a core consideration in drone battery design, particularly for applications demanding long endurance and reliability.
Why this Cell
The LG Chem H51 cell is an ideal choice for drone applications due to its impressive specifications. With a nominal capacity of 18.2 Wh and a maximum continuous discharge rate of 25 A, it supports high energy demands while remaining lightweight. The volumetric energy density of 725 Wh/l positions it in the top-quartile compared to the median of 541.67 Wh/l, allowing for efficient use of space in UAV battery packs. This cell's gravimetric energy density of 258 Wh/kg also exceeds the median of 210 Wh/kg, making it suitable for lightweight drone battery packs that do not compromise on performance. These characteristics ensure that the H51 cell can effectively meet the challenges of UAV battery optimisation, providing the necessary power for extended missions.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a critical role in optimising battery selection for drones. By modelling load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can accurately predict how the LG Chem H51 cell will perform under various conditions. This approach allows for the assessment of energy delivery, thermal management, and overall efficiency, ensuring that the selected cell meets the specific demands of the mission. For instance, simulating different flight scenarios can help identify the optimal discharge rates and energy usage patterns, which is essential for maximising flight time and preventing overheating. By leveraging these simulations, manufacturers can confidently choose the H51 cell, knowing it has been tested against realistic operational profiles, thus avoiding costly trial-and-error testing.
