Molicel P28B Drones Maximise flight time - optimise the cell selection, duty cycle and flight speed to maximise flight time.
Discover the Molicel P28B cell for drones, designed to maximise flight time and optimise performance in demanding applications.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 18650 form factor for compact design.
Nominal capacity of 10.08 Wh and 2.8 Ah for reliable performance.
Top-quartile gravimetric power density of 3,000 W/kg for high discharge rates.
Volumetric energy density of 569 Wh/l, ideal for lightweight drone battery packs.
Maximum continuous discharge of 40 A for demanding applications.
About the Cell
The Molicel P28B is a cylindrical 18650 lithium-ion cell with a nominal capacity of 10.08 Wh (2.8 Ah). It boasts a volumetric energy density of 569 Wh/l, which is significantly above the database median of 542 Wh/l, making it suitable for applications requiring high energy density. The cell also features a gravimetric energy density of 210 Wh/kg, around the median for its category. With a maximum continuous discharge of 40 A, it is positioned in the top-quartile compared to the median of 30 A, ensuring it meets the demands of high-performance drone applications. Additionally, its volumetric power density of 8,126 W/l is among the highest in the database, providing excellent power delivery for rapid acceleration and sustained flight. This combination of features makes the P28B an ideal choice for drone battery design, particularly in scenarios where weight and space are critical factors.
Application Challenges
In the context of drones, maximising flight time is essential for operational efficiency and mission success. The Molicel P28B cell addresses this challenge by offering high energy density and power output, which are crucial for extending drone flight times. In applications such as industrial inspections or emergency response, every minute of airtime is vital. The ability to optimise cell selection, duty cycle, and flight speed directly impacts the drone's endurance and reliability. Furthermore, the lightweight design of the P28B allows for more payload capacity, enhancing the drone's versatility in various missions. The challenge lies in balancing energy consumption with the required thrust and ensuring that the battery can perform under varying environmental conditions, such as temperature fluctuations and payload changes.
Why this Cell
The Molicel P28B cell is specifically designed to meet the rigorous demands of drone applications, particularly in maximising flight time. Its nominal capacity of 10.08 Wh and maximum continuous discharge of 40 A ensure that it can deliver the necessary power for extended missions. With a gravimetric power density of 3,000 W/kg, it is positioned in the top-quartile compared to the median of 750 W/kg, making it suitable for high discharge rate UAV batteries. The cell's volumetric energy density of 569 Wh/l is significantly above the median, allowing for lightweight drone battery packs that do not compromise on performance. This combination of high energy and power densities makes the P28B an excellent choice for UAV battery optimisation, ensuring that drones can operate efficiently and effectively in demanding environments.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in optimising the performance of the Molicel P28B cell in drone applications. By modelling load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can accurately predict how the cell will perform under various conditions. This approach allows for the identification of the optimal duty cycle and flight speed, ensuring that the drone can achieve maximum flight time without risking battery overheating or failure. For instance, simulations can help determine the best operational parameters for different payloads and environmental conditions, enabling real-time adjustments to enhance efficiency. Additionally, by using cell-specific data, engineers can conduct performance testing that informs the design of UAV battery packs, ensuring that they meet the specific needs of each mission profile. This predictive capability is essential for improving UAV mission endurance and reliability, ultimately leading to safer and more effective drone operations.
