Molicel P28A Maximise flight time - optimise the cell selection, duty cycle and flight speed to maximise flight time.
Discover the Molicel P28A cell, designed for UAV applications to maximise flight time and optimise performance in demanding environments.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 18650 form factor, ideal for compact UAV designs.
Nominal capacity of 10.08 Wh and 2.8 Ah, suitable for extended flight durations.
Top-quartile volumetric power density of 7364 W/l, +64% vs database median of 2029 W/l.
Gravimetric energy density of 210 Wh/kg, around median performance in its class.
Maximum continuous discharge of 35 A, ensuring robust performance under load.
About the Cell
The Molicel P28A is a cylindrical 18650 lithium-ion cell, featuring a nominal capacity of 10.08 Wh (2.8 Ah). With a volumetric energy density of 589 Wh/l, it is designed for applications requiring high energy storage in compact formats. The cell exhibits a gravimetric energy density of 210 Wh/kg, placing it around the median for similar cells, making it a competitive choice for UAV applications. Its volumetric power density of 7364 W/l is among the highest in the database, providing excellent performance for rapid current draws. The maximum continuous discharge rate of 35 A ensures that the cell can handle demanding operational conditions without overheating, while the maximum continuous charge rate of 8.4 A allows for efficient recharging, making it suitable for quick turnaround times in UAV operations.
Application Challenges
In the context of EVTOL applications, maximising flight time is critical. The Molicel P28A cell's specifications are tailored to meet the challenges of UAV battery design, where optimising cell selection, duty cycle, and flight speed is essential. The high energy density of the P28A allows for longer missions without the need for frequent recharges, addressing the pain point of extending drone flight time. Additionally, the lightweight design of the cell contributes to overall UAV efficiency, which is vital for improving mission endurance. The challenge lies in ensuring that the cell can perform reliably under varying conditions, including temperature fluctuations and different payloads, which can impact battery performance and safety. The P28A's robust thermal management capabilities help mitigate risks associated with overheating, ensuring safe operation in extreme environments.
Why this Cell
The Molicel P28A is an excellent choice for EVTOL applications, particularly when the goal is to maximise flight time. With a maximum continuous discharge rate of 35 A, it is positioned in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 30 A, allowing for high discharge rates that are crucial for UAV performance. The cell's volumetric energy density of 589 Wh/l is also impressive, providing a significant advantage in terms of space efficiency. This means that UAV designers can achieve longer flight times without increasing the weight of the battery pack. Furthermore, the P28A's gravimetric energy density of 210 Wh/kg ensures that it remains competitive in the market, making it a reliable option for custom UAV battery packs. The combination of high energy density and robust discharge capabilities makes the Molicel P28A a preferred choice for engineers focused on drone battery optimisation.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in selecting the right battery cell for UAV applications like the Molicel P28A. By modelling load profiles, engineers can predict how the cell will perform under various conditions, including different flight speeds and payloads. This allows for accurate assessments of thermal rise and voltage sag, which are critical factors in ensuring reliable operation. For instance, simulations can help identify the optimal duty cycle for the P28A, ensuring that it operates within safe temperature limits while delivering the required thrust. Additionally, modelling usable energy helps in understanding the real-world performance of the battery, enabling engineers to make informed decisions about cell selection. This approach reduces the risk of costly trial-and-error testing, ensuring that the chosen cell meets the specific demands of the mission profile.
