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Molicel P30B Drones Maximise flight time - optimise the cell selection, duty cycle and flight speed to maximise flight time.

Explore the Molicel P30B cell for drones, designed to maximise flight time and optimise performance in demanding applications.

Value Propositions

  • Cylindrical 18650 form factor for versatile integration.

  • Nominal capacity of 10.8 Wh and 3.0 Ah for reliable energy supply.

  • Top-quartile volumetric energy density of 609 Wh/l for compact designs.

  • Maximum continuous discharge of 30 A, ideal for high-demand applications.

  • Gravimetric energy density of 230 Wh/kg, supporting lightweight drone designs.

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About the Cell

The Molicel P30B is a cylindrical 18650 lithium-ion cell with a nominal capacity of 10.8 Wh (3.0 Ah). It boasts a volumetric energy density of 609 Wh/l, placing it in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 542 Wh/l, making it an excellent choice for applications requiring compact energy solutions. With a gravimetric energy density of 230 Wh/kg, it supports lightweight drone battery packs, crucial for enhancing flight time. The cell's maximum continuous discharge rate of 30 A is particularly noteworthy, as it exceeds the database median of 30 A, ensuring robust performance during demanding operations. Additionally, the volumetric power density of 6095 W/l is among the highest in the database, facilitating quick energy delivery when needed. These specifications make the P30B ideal for drone applications where weight and efficiency are paramount.

Application Challenges

In the realm of drones, maximising flight time is critical. The Molicel P30B cell addresses this challenge by optimising the selection of battery cells, duty cycles, and flight speeds. Drones often operate under varying conditions, and the ability to maintain performance while extending flight time is essential. The high energy density of the P30B allows for longer missions without increasing weight, which is a common limitation in drone battery design. Furthermore, the cell's thermal management capabilities help prevent overheating, a significant concern in UAV battery optimisation. By utilising the P30B, operators can achieve improved mission endurance, ensuring that drones can complete their tasks efficiently and reliably.

Why this Cell

The Molicel P30B cell is specifically designed for drone applications, offering a combination of high energy density and robust discharge capabilities. With a maximum continuous discharge rate of 30 A, it is positioned in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 30 A, making it suitable for high-demand scenarios. The cell's volumetric energy density of 609 Wh/l is also noteworthy, as it exceeds the median of 542 Wh/l, allowing for compact battery designs that do not compromise on performance. This makes the P30B an ideal choice for UAV battery pack design, where both weight and energy efficiency are critical. By selecting the P30B, engineers can ensure that their drone systems achieve optimal performance and extended flight times.

How Model-Based Design Helps

Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in optimising the selection of the Molicel P30B cell for drone applications. By modelling load profiles and thermal behaviour, engineers can predict how the cell will perform under various conditions, including different duty cycles and flight speeds. This predictive capability allows for accurate assessments of voltage sag and usable energy, ensuring that the selected cell meets the operational requirements of the drone. For instance, simulations can help identify the optimal cruise velocity that balances energy consumption and aerodynamic efficiency, leading to longer flight times. Additionally, thermal modelling can prevent overheating by ensuring that the cell operates within safe temperature limits, thus enhancing reliability and performance during missions. Overall, simulation enables a more informed selection process, reducing the risk of costly trial-and-error testing and ensuring that the best cells are chosen for UAV applications.

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