Molicel P26A Drones Mission feasibility assessment - asses what missions or use cases are possible or not using a go/no-go decision using simulation.
Explore the Molicel P26A cell for drones, designed for mission feasibility assessments, optimising performance and reliability in critical applications.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 18650 form factor with a nominal capacity of 9.0 Wh.
Volumetric energy density of 508 Wh/l, around median for high-performance cells.
Gravimetric power density of 2,625 W/kg, top-quartile vs median.
Maximum continuous discharge of 35.0 A, among the highest in the database.
Standard charge current of 2.6 A, efficient for rapid charging.
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 features a volumetric energy density of 508 Wh/l, which is around the median for high-performance cells, making it suitable for various drone applications. The cell also boasts a gravimetric energy density of 188 Wh/kg and a volumetric power density of 7,111 W/l, positioning it among the highest in the database. With a maximum continuous discharge of 35.0 A, it is well-suited for demanding applications requiring high current draws. The standard charge current of 2.6 A allows for efficient charging, while the maximum continuous charge current of 6.0 A ensures rapid turnaround times for drone operations.
Application Challenges
In the context of drones, mission feasibility assessment involves determining the viability of various missions based on battery performance. The Molicel P26A cell's specifications are critical in this regard, as they directly influence the drone's operational capabilities. For instance, the high energy density allows for longer flight times, which is essential for missions that require extended endurance. Additionally, the cell's ability to handle high discharge rates is crucial for applications that demand rapid bursts of power, such as takeoff or sudden manoeuvres. The simulation-based approach to assessing mission feasibility enables operators to make informed go/no-go decisions, reducing the risk of mission failure due to inadequate power supply or battery overheating.
Why this Cell
The Molicel P26A cell is an excellent choice for drone applications due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge of 35.0 A, it is among the highest in the database, ensuring that drones can perform demanding tasks without risking battery failure. The cell's volumetric energy density of 508 Wh/l is particularly beneficial for long endurance missions, allowing drones to carry out extended operations without frequent recharges. Furthermore, its gravimetric power density of 2,625 W/kg places it in the top-quartile compared to other cells, making it ideal for applications requiring quick power delivery. This combination of high energy and power densities, along with efficient charging capabilities, makes the Molicel P26A a top choice for UAV battery pack design.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in optimising the performance of the Molicel P26A cell in drone applications. By modelling load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can predict how the cell will perform under various conditions. This allows for accurate assessments of usable energy and helps identify potential issues such as overheating or insufficient power delivery during critical phases of flight. For example, simulations can reveal how the cell behaves at different states of charge (SoC) and temperatures, enabling operators to make informed decisions about mission feasibility. This predictive capability is essential for ensuring reliability in mission-critical applications, where every detail counts in achieving successful outcomes.
