Molicel M65A Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Explore the Molicel M65A cell for UAV applications, balancing weight and power for optimal drone performance and endurance.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor for compact design.
Nominal capacity of 23.4 Wh and 6.5 Ah for reliable energy supply.
Volumetric energy density of 914 Wh/l, top-quartile vs median 542 Wh/l.
Gravimetric power density of 1256 W/kg, +68% vs database median of 750 W/kg.
Maximum continuous discharge of 26 A, top-quartile vs median 30 A.
About the Cell
The Molicel M65A is a cylindrical 21700 lithium-ion cell designed for high-performance applications. With a nominal capacity of 23.4 Wh and 6.5 Ah, it provides a robust energy supply for UAVs. Its volumetric energy density of 914 Wh/l places it in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 542 Wh/l, making it a strong candidate for applications requiring compact battery solutions. Additionally, the gravimetric energy density of 314 Wh/kg is significantly higher than the median of 210 Wh/kg, ensuring that the cell delivers more energy per unit weight. The cell's volumetric power density of 3655 W/l is among the highest in the database, allowing for rapid energy delivery when needed. The maximum continuous discharge rate of 26 A, while slightly below the median of 30 A, still offers substantial performance for demanding applications.
Application Challenges
In the aerospace sector, the challenge of balancing weight and power in UAV battery pack design is critical. The Molicel M65A cell addresses this challenge by providing high energy density, which is essential for extending drone flight times and improving mission endurance. As UAVs are often required to operate in extreme environments, the ability to select cells that can withstand varying temperatures and discharge rates is paramount. The M65A's specifications allow for effective thermal management and reliable performance, ensuring that drones can complete their missions without the risk of overheating or power failure. This balance is crucial for applications such as long endurance flights and heavy lift operations, where every gram of weight saved translates to increased payload capacity and flight time.
Why this Cell
The Molicel M65A cell is particularly suited for UAV applications due to its impressive specifications. 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 energy density is vital for applications where weight is a critical factor, such as in drone battery design. Furthermore, the gravimetric power density of 1256 W/kg, which is +68% vs the database median of 750 W/kg, ensures that the cell can deliver high power outputs necessary for dynamic flight operations. The maximum continuous discharge of 26 A, while slightly below the median, still provides ample power for demanding UAV applications, making it a reliable choice for engineers selecting cells for UAVs.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in optimising battery performance for UAVs. By simulating load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage responses, engineers can accurately predict how the Molicel M65A cell will perform under various conditions. This modelling allows for the identification of the optimal cell for specific mission profiles, ensuring that the selected battery can deliver the required thrust and energy throughout the flight envelope. For instance, by analysing the thermal rise and usable energy, designers can prevent overheating and ensure that the battery operates within safe limits. This approach not only enhances the reliability of drone operations but also reduces the need for costly trial-and-error testing, streamlining the design process for custom UAV battery packs.
