Molicel P26A 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 EVTOL applications, designed for mission feasibility assessments with high energy density and performance.
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 7,111 W/l for demanding UAV applications.
Gravimetric energy density of 188 Wh/kg supports lightweight designs.
Maximum continuous discharge of 35 A enables high-performance UAV operations.
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 similar cells, and a gravimetric energy density of 188 Wh/kg, which is 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, this cell is well-suited for high-demand applications, particularly in UAVs where performance is critical. The standard charge current is 2.6 A, and the maximum continuous charge current is 6.0 A, allowing for efficient energy replenishment. Overall, the P26A is designed for applications requiring high energy and power densities, making it ideal for UAV and drone battery designs.
Application Challenges
In the context of EVTOL and mission feasibility assessment, the Molicel P26A cell addresses several critical challenges. The ability to assess what missions or use cases are possible using a go/no-go decision based on simulation is paramount. The high energy density of 508 Wh/l allows for longer flight times, which is essential for missions requiring endurance. Additionally, the maximum continuous discharge of 35 A ensures that the cell can deliver the necessary power for demanding applications, such as heavy-lift drones or those operating in extreme environments. Accurate predictions of battery performance under various conditions, including temperature and state of charge (SoC), are vital for mission success. The P26A's specifications enable reliable operation in diverse scenarios, reducing the risk of mid-air failures and enhancing mission planning efficiency.
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 in the top-quartile compared to the median of 2,029 W/l. This characteristic is crucial for UAVs that require rapid power delivery during takeoff and manoeuvring. Furthermore, its nominal capacity of 9.0 Wh allows for extended flight times, addressing the pain point of improving UAV mission endurance. The cell's maximum continuous discharge rate of 35 A ensures that it can handle high current draws without overheating, which is essential for maintaining safety and performance in demanding flight conditions. These attributes make the P26A an excellent choice for drone battery design, particularly in applications where reliability and efficiency are paramount.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a critical role in optimising the use of the Molicel P26A cell for UAV applications. By modelling load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can accurately predict how the cell will perform under various conditions. This includes assessing the impact of temperature on battery performance and ensuring that the cell can deliver the required thrust throughout the flight envelope. For instance, simulations can help identify the optimal charge and discharge rates, ensuring that the cell operates within safe limits while maximising energy output. Additionally, these models allow for real-time decision-making regarding mission feasibility, enabling operators to confidently launch drones knowing they have selected the right battery for the task. Overall, simulation enhances the reliability and efficiency of UAV operations, making it an indispensable tool in the design and deployment of drone battery systems.
