Molicel P26A Maximise flight time - optimise the cell selection, duty cycle and flight speed to maximise flight time.
Discover the Molicel P26A cell, designed for UAV applications to maximise flight time and optimise performance in demanding environments.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 18650 form factor for versatile applications.
Nominal capacity of 9.0 Wh and 2.5 Ah for efficient energy storage.
Top-quartile volumetric power density of 7,111 W/l for high performance.
Gravimetric energy density of 188 Wh/kg supports lightweight designs.
Maximum continuous discharge of 35 A enables robust power delivery.
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 offers a volumetric energy density of approximately 508 Wh/l, which is around the median for similar cells, and a gravimetric energy density of 188 Wh/kg, slightly below the median of 210 Wh/kg. The cell's volumetric power density is impressive at 7,111 W/l, placing it in the top-quartile compared to the median of 2,029 W/l. With a maximum continuous discharge rate of 35 A, it is well-suited for demanding UAV applications. The standard charge current is 2.6 A, with a maximum continuous charge of 6.0 A, allowing for efficient energy replenishment. Overall, the P26A is designed for high performance and reliability in various UAV applications.
Application Challenges
In the EVTOL sector, maximising flight time is critical. The Molicel P26A cell addresses this challenge by providing a high energy density that allows for longer missions without increasing weight. The ability to optimise cell selection, duty cycle, and flight speed is essential for extending flight duration. With the P26A's high discharge capabilities, it can support the energy demands of various UAV operations, ensuring that drones can perform effectively in diverse environments. The challenge lies in balancing energy consumption with operational efficiency, making the choice of battery cell crucial for mission success.
Why this Cell
The Molicel P26A cell is particularly advantageous for EVTOL applications due to its high volumetric power density of 7,111 W/l, which is +350% vs the database median of 2,029 W/l. This allows for quick bursts of power when needed, crucial for takeoff and manoeuvring. Additionally, its maximum continuous discharge of 35 A ensures that it can handle the high current demands of UAVs, making it a reliable choice for applications that require both endurance and performance. The cell's gravimetric energy density of 188 Wh/kg, while slightly below the median, still provides a good balance between weight and energy storage, essential for lightweight drone designs.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a vital role in optimising the performance of the Molicel P26A cell in UAV applications. By modelling load profiles, engineers can predict how the cell will behave under various conditions, including thermal rise and voltage sag. This allows for informed decisions regarding cell selection based on realistic performance metrics. For instance, simulating different duty cycles can help identify the optimal charge and discharge rates, ensuring that the cell operates within safe limits while delivering the required power. This predictive capability reduces the risk of mid-air failures and enhances mission reliability, making it an invaluable tool in UAV battery design.
