Molicel P26A Drones 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 P26A cell for drones, designed for fast charging without overheating, ensuring safety and efficiency in UAV applications.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 18650 form factor for versatile applications.
Nominal capacity of 9.0 Wh and 2.5 Ah for reliable energy delivery.
Top-quartile volumetric power density of 7111 W/l for rapid energy transfer.
Maximum continuous discharge of 35.0 A ensures high performance under load.
Gravimetric energy density of 187.5 Wh/kg supports lightweight drone designs.
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, placing it around the median of the database. The gravimetric energy density is 187.5 Wh/kg, which is below the median of 210 Wh/kg. However, it excels in power density, with a volumetric power density of 7111 W/l, which is in the top-quartile compared to the median of 2029 W/l. The maximum continuous discharge current of 35.0 A is significantly higher than the median of 30 A, making it suitable for high-demand applications. The cell's design prioritises thermal management, allowing for a maximum continuous charge rate of 6.0 A, which is also above the median of 8 A, ensuring efficient charging without overheating.
Application Challenges
In the context of drones, the challenge of fast charging is critical. Rapid charging must be balanced with the need to prevent overheating and lithium plating, which can degrade battery performance and safety. The Molicel P26A cell's high maximum continuous discharge of 35.0 A allows for quick energy delivery, essential for UAV applications where time is of the essence. The ability to charge at a maximum continuous charge rate of 6.0 A further supports the need for efficient energy replenishment during operations. As drones are increasingly used in demanding environments, ensuring that battery packs remain lightweight while providing high energy density is crucial for extending flight times and improving mission endurance.
Why this Cell
The Molicel P26A cell is particularly suited for drone applications due to its impressive specifications. With a volumetric power density of 7111 W/l, it is among the highest in the database, allowing for rapid energy transfer during critical operations. The maximum continuous discharge of 35.0 A ensures that the cell can handle high power demands without compromising safety. Additionally, its nominal capacity of 9.0 Wh provides a reliable energy source for various UAV missions. The cell's design also incorporates features that mitigate overheating risks, making it a safe choice for fast charging applications. This combination of high performance and safety makes the P26A an excellent option for drone battery packs.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a vital role in optimising the performance of the Molicel P26A cell in drone applications. By modelling load profiles and thermal behaviour, engineers can predict how the cell will perform under various conditions, including rapid charging scenarios. This predictive capability allows for the identification of potential overheating issues before they occur, ensuring that the cell operates within safe limits. Furthermore, simulations can help in determining the optimal charging rates and discharge profiles, enhancing the overall efficiency of the UAV powertrain. By utilising cell-specific data, designers can make informed decisions about battery pack configurations, leading to improved mission reliability and performance.
