Molicel M65A Drones Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Explore the Molicel M65A cell for drones, optimising weight and power for enhanced performance in UAV applications. Discover its advantages today.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor for versatile integration.
Nominal capacity of 23.4 Wh and 6.5 Ah for reliable energy supply.
Top-quartile volumetric energy density of 914 Wh/l for compact designs.
Maximum continuous discharge of 26.0 A, ensuring high performance.
Gravimetric power density of 1256 W/kg, ideal for dynamic UAV applications.

About the Cell
The Molicel M65A is a cylindrical 21700 cell with a nominal capacity of 23.4 Wh (6.5 Ah). It boasts a volumetric energy density of 914 Wh/l, placing it in the top-quartile compared to the median of 542 Wh/l in the database. Its gravimetric energy density is 314 Wh/kg, which is around the median of 210 Wh/kg. The cell's volumetric power density is impressive at 3655 W/l, significantly above the median of 2029 W/l, making it suitable for high-performance applications. With a maximum continuous discharge of 26.0 A, it supports demanding UAV operations, ensuring reliability and efficiency in various flight profiles. This cell is designed to meet the rigorous demands of drone battery design, providing a balance of energy and power for optimal performance.
Application Challenges
In the realm of drones, the challenge of balancing weight and power in battery pack design is crucial. The Molicel M65A cell addresses the weight v power trade-off effectively, enabling UAV manufacturers to optimise their designs for enhanced performance. The need for lightweight drone battery packs is paramount, especially in applications requiring long endurance and high energy density. Selecting the right battery cell is essential for achieving the desired flight times while maintaining a manageable weight. The M65A's specifications allow for improved UAV mission endurance, making it a prime candidate for custom UAV battery packs that can withstand the rigours of various operational environments.
Why this Cell
The Molicel M65A cell is an excellent choice for drone applications due to its high energy density and robust discharge capabilities. With a volumetric energy density of 914 Wh/l, it stands out in the market, being in the top-quartile compared to the median of 542 Wh/l. This high density allows for lightweight drone battery packs that do not compromise on performance. Additionally, the maximum continuous discharge of 26.0 A ensures that the cell can handle high current demands, making it suitable for applications requiring quick bursts of power. The combination of these metrics positions the M65A as a leading option for UAV battery optimisation, ensuring that manufacturers can achieve the best balance between weight and power.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a critical role in selecting the right battery cells for drone applications. By simulating load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can predict how the Molicel M65A will perform under various conditions. This approach allows for accurate assessments of usable energy and thermal management, which are vital for preventing overheating and ensuring safe operation. For instance, modelling the M65A's performance in different flight scenarios can help identify optimal charge and discharge rates, enhancing drone powertrain efficiency. Furthermore, simulation enables manufacturers to make informed decisions about battery cell selection, reducing the risk of costly trial-and-error testing and ensuring that the chosen cell meets the specific demands of the mission profile.


