Molicel M65A Fast charge of the batteries - how to charge the battery quickly without overheating the cells or causing lithium plating which could degrade the battery or cause it to catch fire.
Discover the Molicel M65A, designed for fast charging in EVTOL applications, ensuring safety and efficiency without overheating or lithium plating.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor for compact design.
Nominal capacity of 23.4 Wh and 6.5 Ah for reliable performance.
Top-quartile volumetric energy density of 914 Wh/l for efficient space use.
Maximum continuous discharge of 26.0 A, ideal for high-demand applications.
Gravimetric power density of 1,256 W/kg for rapid energy delivery.
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, making it a solid choice for applications requiring lightweight solutions. The cell also features a maximum continuous discharge of 26.0 A, which is significantly higher than the median of 30 A, ensuring it can handle demanding power requirements. Additionally, the volumetric power density of 3,655 W/l is among the highest in the database, allowing for efficient energy delivery in compact designs.
Application Challenges
In EVTOL applications, fast charging is critical to ensure that drones can quickly return to service without overheating the cells or risking lithium plating. The challenge lies in balancing the need for rapid charging with the thermal management of the battery system. Overheating can lead to reduced battery life and safety hazards, while lithium plating can degrade performance and increase the risk of fire. Therefore, selecting the right cell, such as the Molicel M65A, which offers high energy density and robust discharge capabilities, is essential for optimising UAV performance and ensuring mission success.
Why this Cell
The Molicel M65A is particularly suited for EVTOL applications due to its high energy density and robust performance metrics. With a maximum continuous discharge of 26.0 A, it is positioned in the top-quartile compared to the median of 30 A in the database, ensuring it can meet the demands of high-energy applications. Its volumetric energy density of 914 Wh/l allows for efficient space utilisation, making it ideal for lightweight drone battery packs. This combination of features ensures that the M65A can support fast charging without compromising safety, addressing the critical challenge of overheating and lithium plating.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in optimising battery performance for EVTOL applications. By modelling load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can predict how the Molicel M65A will perform under various conditions. This allows for the identification of optimal charging strategies that minimise the risk of overheating while maximising efficiency. For instance, simulations can help determine the best charging rates and conditions to prevent lithium plating, ensuring that the battery maintains its performance and safety throughout its lifecycle. This data-driven approach enables confident selection of battery cells and enhances overall UAV performance.
