Molicel P28A 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 P28A cell for drones, designed for fast charging without overheating, ensuring safety and efficiency in UAV applications.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 18650 form factor for compact design.
Nominal capacity of 10.08 Wh, ideal for drone applications.
Top-quartile volumetric power density at 7364 W/l for rapid energy delivery.
Gravimetric energy density of 210 Wh/kg supports lightweight UAV designs.
Maximum continuous discharge of 35 A ensures high performance under load.
About the Cell
The Molicel P28A is a cylindrical 18650 lithium-ion cell with a nominal capacity of 10.08 Wh (2.8 Ah). It features a volumetric energy density of 589 Wh/l, which is around 8% higher than the database median of 541 Wh/l, making it suitable for applications requiring compact energy storage. The gravimetric energy density stands at 210 Wh/kg, aligning closely with the median value, ensuring a balance between weight and energy capacity. The cell's volumetric power density of 7364 W/l is among the highest in the database, providing excellent performance for rapid energy delivery, while the gravimetric power density of 2625 W/kg supports high discharge rates. With a standard charge current of 2.8 A and a maximum continuous charge of 8.4 A, the P28A is designed for efficient charging, making it ideal for drone applications where quick turnaround times are essential. The cell's design prioritises safety and performance, ensuring reliable operation in demanding environments.
Application Challenges
In the realm of drones, fast charging presents unique challenges. The need to charge batteries quickly without overheating is critical to prevent lithium plating, which can degrade battery performance and pose safety risks. The Molicel P28A addresses these challenges with its high maximum continuous charge rate of 8.4 A, allowing for rapid charging while maintaining thermal stability. Effective battery thermal management is essential to ensure that the cells do not exceed safe operating temperatures during fast charging. Additionally, the lightweight design of the P28A, with a mass of only 48 g, contributes to overall drone efficiency, enabling longer flight times and improved mission endurance. The ability to select the right cell for UAV battery pack design is crucial, as it directly impacts the drone's performance and reliability in various operational scenarios.
Why this Cell
The Molicel P28A is an excellent choice for drone applications due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge of 35 A, it falls into the top-quartile category compared to the database median of 30 A, ensuring that it can handle high power demands during flight. The cell's volumetric energy density of 589 Wh/l is significantly higher than the median, allowing for compact battery designs that do not compromise on energy storage. This is particularly beneficial for UAV battery optimisation, where space and weight are critical factors. Furthermore, the P28A's gravimetric energy density of 210 Wh/kg aligns well with industry standards, making it a reliable option for lightweight drone battery packs. The combination of these features makes the Molicel P28A a standout choice for those looking to enhance drone performance while ensuring safety and efficiency during fast charging.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a vital role in optimising the performance of the Molicel P28A in drone applications. By simulating load profiles, engineers can predict how the cell will behave under various conditions, including rapid charging scenarios. This allows for accurate modelling of thermal rise and voltage sag, ensuring that the cell operates within safe limits during fast charging. Additionally, simulations can help in understanding the usable energy across different flight profiles, enabling designers to select the most suitable cells for specific missions. By leveraging cell-specific data, engineers can make informed decisions that enhance UAV battery performance testing and improve overall powertrain efficiency. This approach not only reduces the risk of overheating but also ensures that the selected battery packs meet the demanding requirements of modern drone operations.
