Molicel P26A: Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Explore Molicel P26A for UAV battery optimisation, tackling weight vs power trade-offs for enhanced drone performance and endurance.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 18650 form factor for versatile applications.
Nominal capacity of 9.0 Wh, ideal for UAV battery pack design.
Top-quartile volumetric power density of 7111 W/l for high energy demands.
Gravimetric energy density of 188 Wh/kg supports lightweight drone battery packs.
Maximum continuous discharge of 35 A ensures reliable performance.
About the Cell
The Molicel P26A is a cylindrical 18650 lithium-ion cell with a nominal capacity of 9.0 Wh and 2.5 Ah. It boasts a volumetric energy density of 508 Wh/l and a gravimetric energy density of 188 Wh/kg. With a maximum continuous discharge of 35 A, it is designed for high-performance applications, particularly in UAVs. The cell's volumetric power density of 7111 W/l places it among the highest in the database, making it suitable for demanding drone operations. The standard charge current of 2.6 A and maximum continuous charge of 6.0 A provide flexibility in charging scenarios. Overall, the P26A is engineered for efficiency and reliability, meeting the needs of modern drone battery design.
Application Challenges
In the context of EVTOL and the weight vs power trade-off in pack design, selecting the right battery cell is crucial. Drones require a balance between weight and power to maximise flight time and efficiency. The Molicel P26A addresses these challenges with its high energy density and robust discharge capabilities. For UAVs, the ability to optimise battery weight directly impacts mission endurance and operational effectiveness. As drone technology evolves, the demand for lightweight yet powerful battery solutions grows, making the P26A an ideal candidate for various UAV applications.
Why this Cell
The Molicel P26A is particularly suited for UAV applications due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge of 35 A, it is positioned in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 30 A, ensuring it can handle high power demands during flight. Its gravimetric energy density of 188 Wh/kg is significant for lightweight drone battery packs, allowing for extended flight times without compromising on payload capacity. Additionally, the volumetric power density of 7111 W/l is among the highest in the database, making it an excellent choice for high energy density drone batteries. This combination of features supports effective UAV battery optimisation, addressing the critical weight vs power trade-off.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a vital role in selecting the right battery for UAV applications like the Molicel P26A. By simulating load profiles, engineers can predict how the cell will perform under various conditions, including thermal behaviour and voltage sag. This predictive capability allows for informed decisions when choosing cells for drone battery packs. For instance, modelling can reveal how the P26A manages heat generation during high discharge scenarios, ensuring safety and reliability. Furthermore, simulations can help optimise the battery pack design, balancing weight and energy requirements to enhance overall drone performance. This approach reduces the risk of trial-and-error testing, leading to more efficient and effective UAV battery solutions.
