LG Chem HG2 Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Explore the LG Chem HG2 cell for UAV applications, optimising weight and power for enhanced drone performance and endurance.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 18650 form factor for versatile integration.
Nominal capacity of 10.8 Wh and 3.0 Ah for reliable performance.
Top-quartile volumetric energy density of 616 Wh/l for compact designs.
Gravimetric power density of 1500 W/kg, ideal for high discharge applications.
Maximum continuous discharge of 20 A supports demanding UAV operations.
About the Cell
The LG Chem HG2 cell features a cylindrical 18650 form factor, providing a nominal capacity of 10.8 Wh and 3.0 Ah. With a volumetric energy density of 616 Wh/l, it ranks in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 541.67 Wh/l, making it an excellent choice for applications requiring compact energy storage. Additionally, the gravimetric energy density of 225 Wh/kg is around the median, ensuring a good balance between weight and energy. The cell's volumetric power density of 4107 W/l is among the highest in the database, supporting high power demands in UAV applications. With a maximum continuous discharge of 20 A, the HG2 cell is well-suited for high-performance drone operations, ensuring reliable power delivery under load.
Application Challenges
In the context of EVTOL and the weight versus power trade-off in pack design, selecting the right battery cell 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 HG2 cell's high energy density allows for longer missions without adding excessive weight, addressing the challenge of optimising battery performance in demanding environments. Additionally, ensuring that the battery can handle high discharge rates is essential for maintaining thrust during critical phases of flight, such as take-off and manoeuvring. The balance of weight and power is vital for improving UAV mission endurance and preventing overheating during operation.
Why this Cell
The LG Chem HG2 cell is an ideal choice for UAV applications due to its impressive specifications. With a nominal capacity of 10.8 Wh and a maximum continuous discharge of 20 A, it supports high energy demands while maintaining a lightweight profile. The cell's volumetric energy density of 616 Wh/l is significantly above the median, providing more energy in a compact form, which is essential for long endurance drone batteries. Furthermore, the gravimetric power density of 1500 W/kg ensures that the cell can deliver power efficiently, making it suitable for applications that require rapid energy release. This combination of high energy and power densities makes the HG2 cell a strong candidate for custom UAV battery packs, optimising both weight and performance.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a critical role in selecting the right battery cell for UAV applications. By simulating load profiles and thermal behaviour, engineers can predict how the LG Chem HG2 cell will perform under various conditions. This includes modelling voltage sag, heat generation, and usable energy throughout the flight envelope. Such simulations allow for accurate predictions of battery performance, ensuring that the selected cell meets the specific requirements of the mission. For instance, understanding how the cell behaves at different discharge rates helps in preventing overheating and optimising battery thermal management for drones. This approach not only enhances the reliability of the battery selection process but also reduces the need for costly trial-and-error testing, ultimately leading to more efficient UAV designs.
