MaxAmps MA-5200 Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Explore the MaxAmps MA-5200 cell for UAV applications, optimising weight and power for enhanced drone performance and endurance.
Value Propositions
Pouch form factor with 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 database.
Volumetric power density of 13158 W/l, +5% vs database median of 2029 W/l.
About the Cell
The MaxAmps MA-5200 cell is designed for high-performance UAV applications, featuring a pouch form factor that allows for efficient space utilisation. With a nominal capacity of 19.24 Wh and 5.2 Ah, it delivers substantial energy storage for various drone operations. The cell boasts a volumetric energy density of 292 Wh/l, placing it in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 541 Wh/l. Additionally, its gravimetric energy density of 153 Wh/kg is around the median of 210 Wh/kg, making it a competitive choice for lightweight drone battery packs. The maximum continuous discharge rate of 234 A positions it among the highest in the database, ensuring robust performance during demanding flight scenarios. Furthermore, the volumetric power density of 13158 W/l is impressive, exceeding the median by +5%, which is crucial for applications requiring quick bursts of power.
Application Challenges
In the context of EVTOL and the weight versus power trade-off in pack design, selecting the right battery cell is critical. UAVs often operate under strict weight limitations while needing to deliver high power outputs for extended flight times. The challenge lies in balancing these two factors to optimise overall performance. For instance, high energy density is essential for long endurance missions, while the ability to handle high discharge rates is crucial for heavy lift operations. The MaxAmps MA-5200 cell addresses these challenges effectively, providing a solution that meets the demands of modern drone applications.
Why this Cell
The MaxAmps MA-5200 cell is particularly suited for UAV applications due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge rate of 234 A, it is among the highest in the database, ensuring that it can handle the rigorous demands of flight without overheating or degrading. Its volumetric energy density of 292 Wh/l is top-quartile compared to the median of 541 Wh/l, allowing for efficient energy storage in compact designs. This is vital for UAVs that require lightweight battery packs to maximise flight time. Additionally, the cell's gravimetric energy density of 153 Wh/kg, while around the median, still provides a competitive edge in terms of weight management. Overall, the MA-5200 cell is an excellent choice for those looking to optimise their UAV battery pack design.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in selecting the right battery cell for UAV applications like the MaxAmps MA-5200. By modelling load profiles and thermal behaviour, engineers can predict how the cell will perform under various conditions, such as high discharge rates and temperature fluctuations. This predictive capability allows for informed decision-making, ensuring that the selected cell can deliver the required thrust and energy throughout the entire flight envelope. For example, simulating the thermal rise and voltage sag helps identify potential overheating issues, enabling designers to choose cells that maintain performance without compromising safety. Ultimately, this approach reduces the risk of costly trial-and-error testing and enhances the reliability of UAV missions.
