Molicel P30B 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 P30B 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 10.8 Wh and 3.0 Ah for reliable performance.
Top-quartile power density (+58% vs median W/kg) for brisk current draws.
Maximum continuous discharge of 30 A for demanding applications.
Volumetric energy density of 609 Wh/l for efficient space utilisation.
About the Cell
The Molicel P30B is a cylindrical 18650 lithium-ion cell with a nominal capacity of 10.8 Wh and 3.0 Ah. It boasts impressive energy densities, with a volumetric energy density of 609 Wh/l and a gravimetric energy density of 230 Wh/kg. The cell supports a standard charge current of 3.0 A and can handle a maximum continuous charge of 9.0 A, making it suitable for fast charging applications. Its maximum continuous discharge current of 30 A ensures that it can deliver high power when needed. Compared to the database median, the P30B's volumetric power density of 6094 W/l is among the highest, providing excellent performance for drone applications. The cell's lightweight design, at just 47 g, contributes to the overall efficiency of UAV systems, allowing for longer flight times and improved payload capacity.
Application Challenges
In the realm of drones, fast charging is critical to maintaining operational efficiency. The challenge lies in charging the battery quickly without overheating the cells or causing lithium plating, which can degrade the battery's performance and safety. The Molicel P30B addresses these challenges with its robust thermal management capabilities and high discharge rates. Ensuring that the battery can withstand rapid charging while maintaining a safe operating temperature is essential for UAV battery pack design. The ability to charge quickly without compromising safety is vital for applications such as long endurance missions and heavy lift operations, where every minute of flight time counts.
Why this Cell
The Molicel P30B is an ideal choice for drone applications requiring fast charging capabilities. With a maximum continuous charge rate of 3.0 C, it allows for rapid recharging without overheating, addressing the core challenge of fast charging in UAVs. Its gravimetric energy density of 230 Wh/kg is around the median, ensuring a lightweight solution for drone battery packs. The cell's high volumetric energy density of 609 Wh/l enables efficient use of space, making it suitable for compact UAV designs. Additionally, the maximum continuous discharge of 30 A positions the P30B in the top-quartile of performance, ensuring that it can handle demanding power requirements during flight.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in optimising the performance of the Molicel P30B in drone applications. By modelling load profiles and thermal behaviour, engineers can predict how the cell will perform under various charging conditions. This includes assessing heat generation during rapid charging and ensuring that the cell operates within safe temperature limits. By simulating voltage sag and usable energy across different flight scenarios, designers can make informed decisions about battery selection and configuration. This approach not only enhances the reliability of the UAV but also reduces the risk of overheating and potential failures during critical missions.
