MaxAmps MA-5200 Drones Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Explore the MaxAmps MA-5200 cell for drones, optimising weight and power for enhanced performance and endurance in UAV applications.
Value Propositions
Pouch form factor with a nominal capacity of 19.24 Wh and 5.2 Ah.
Volumetric energy density of 292 Wh/l, top-quartile vs median of 541 Wh/l.
Gravimetric energy density of 153 Wh/kg, around median of 210 Wh/kg.
Maximum continuous discharge of 234 A, among the highest in the database.
Volumetric power density of 13,158 W/l, +5% vs database median of 2,029 W/l.
About the Cell
The MaxAmps MA-5200 cell is designed specifically for drone applications, featuring a pouch form factor that allows for a compact and lightweight design. With a nominal capacity of 19.24 Wh and 5.2 Ah, this cell provides a robust energy solution for UAVs. Its volumetric energy density of 292 Wh/l places it in the top-quartile compared to the median of 541 Wh/l in the database, making it an excellent choice for applications requiring high energy storage in limited space. Additionally, the gravimetric energy density of 153 Wh/kg is around the median of 210 Wh/kg, ensuring that the cell remains lightweight while delivering substantial power. The maximum continuous discharge rate of 234 A is among the highest in the database, enabling drones to perform demanding tasks without compromising on performance. Furthermore, the volumetric power density of 13,158 W/l is impressive, exceeding the median of 2,029 W/l, which is critical for applications that require rapid power delivery.
Application Challenges
In the context of drone applications, the challenge of balancing weight and power in battery pack design is paramount. Drones must achieve optimal performance while maintaining a lightweight structure to enhance flight time and efficiency. The MaxAmps MA-5200 cell addresses this challenge by providing a high energy density solution that allows for longer flight durations without adding excessive weight. The ability to select the right battery cell is crucial for UAV battery pack design, as it directly impacts the drone's endurance and operational capabilities. The weight versus power trade-off is a critical consideration in drone battery design, especially for applications that demand high discharge rates and reliable performance under varying conditions.
Why this Cell
The MaxAmps MA-5200 cell is an ideal choice for drone applications due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge of 234 A, this cell is among the highest in the database, ensuring that UAVs can handle demanding tasks without overheating or losing efficiency. The volumetric energy density of 292 Wh/l, which is in the top-quartile compared to the median of 541 Wh/l, allows for a compact design that does not sacrifice power. This is particularly important for UAV battery optimisation, where space is often at a premium. Additionally, the gravimetric energy density of 153 Wh/kg, while around the median of 210 Wh/kg, still provides a lightweight solution that enhances drone performance. These metrics make the MA-5200 cell a strong contender for custom UAV battery packs, ensuring that operators can achieve the best balance between weight and power.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in optimising battery selection for drone applications. By simulating load profiles and thermal behaviour, engineers can predict how the MaxAmps MA-5200 cell will perform under various conditions. This includes modelling heat generation, voltage sag, and usable energy across different flight scenarios. For instance, understanding the thermal rise during high discharge rates allows for better battery thermal management, preventing overheating and ensuring safe operation. Additionally, simulations can help identify the optimal charge and discharge rates, maximising the cell's performance while extending the drone's flight time. This data-driven approach enables confident selection of the right battery cell, reducing the risk of trial-and-error testing and ensuring that the chosen cell meets the specific needs of the UAV mission.
