Molicel P28A 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, designed for fast charging in EVTOL applications, ensuring safety and efficiency without overheating or degradation.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 18650 form factor for versatile applications.
Nominal capacity of 10.08 Wh and 2.8 Ah for reliable energy storage.
Top-quartile volumetric power density of 7364 W/l for rapid energy delivery.
Gravimetric energy density of 210 Wh/kg, optimising weight for UAVs.
Maximum continuous discharge of 35 A, supporting high-performance applications.
About the Cell
The Molicel P28A is a cylindrical 18650 cell with a nominal capacity of 10.08 Wh (2.8 Ah), making it suitable for various UAV applications. It boasts a volumetric energy density of 589 Wh/l, which is around 8% above the median of 541.67 Wh/l in the database, ensuring that it can store a significant amount of energy in a compact form. The gravimetric energy density stands at 210 Wh/kg, aligning closely with the median of 210 Wh/kg, providing a balanced performance for weight-sensitive applications. Additionally, the cell features a volumetric power density of 7364 W/l, which is in the top-quartile compared to the median of 2029 W/l, allowing for quick energy delivery when needed. The maximum continuous discharge rate of 35 A (12.5 C) positions it well above the median of 30 A, making it ideal for high-drain applications.
Application Challenges
In the EVTOL sector, fast charging of batteries is critical to ensure operational efficiency. The challenge lies in charging the Molicel P28A quickly without overheating the cells or causing lithium plating, which can degrade battery performance or lead to safety hazards. The high energy density of the P28A allows for rapid charging, but careful thermal management is essential to prevent overheating. The standard charge current of 2.8 A and maximum continuous charge of 8.4 A must be optimised to maintain battery health while achieving quick turnaround times. This is particularly important in applications where drones are deployed for time-sensitive missions, such as inspections or deliveries, where every minute counts.
Why this Cell
The Molicel P28A is specifically designed to meet the demands of fast charging in EVTOL applications. With a maximum continuous charge rate of 8.4 A, it allows for efficient charging without compromising safety, as it is significantly above the median of 8 A in the database. The cell's high volumetric power density of 7364 W/l ensures that it can deliver power quickly, which is essential for UAVs that require rapid energy bursts during flight. Furthermore, the gravimetric energy density of 210 Wh/kg supports lightweight designs, making it an excellent choice for drone applications where weight is a critical factor. This combination of high energy and power densities, along with robust thermal management strategies, makes the P28A a top choice for UAV battery optimisation.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in optimising the performance of the Molicel P28A in UAV applications. By simulating load profiles and thermal behaviour, engineers can predict how the cell will respond under various charging conditions. This includes modelling heat generation during fast charging, which is vital to prevent overheating and ensure safe operation. Additionally, simulations can help in understanding voltage sag and usable energy across different discharge rates, enabling designers to select the most suitable cells for specific missions. This approach reduces the reliance on trial-and-error testing, allowing for more efficient design cycles and improved battery performance in real-world applications. Ultimately, simulation helps ensure that the Molicel P28A meets the rigorous demands of EVTOL operations.
