Molicel P30B Drones Safety and risk management - particularly around overheating and thermal runaway during flight.
Discover the Molicel P30B cell for drones, designed for safety and efficiency, tackling overheating and thermal runaway challenges.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 18650 form factor for versatile applications.
Nominal capacity of 10.8 Wh and 3.0 Ah for reliable performance.
Top-quartile volumetric power density of 6095 W/l for high energy demands.
Gravimetric energy density of 230 Wh/kg, ensuring lightweight solutions.
Maximum continuous discharge of 30 A, suitable for demanding UAV applications.

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 a volumetric energy density of 609 Wh/l, which is significantly higher than the database median of 542 Wh/l, making it an excellent choice for applications requiring high energy density. Its gravimetric energy density of 230 Wh/kg is also competitive, being around the median of 210 Wh/kg. The cell's maximum continuous discharge rate of 30 A places it in the top-quartile compared to the median of 30 A, ensuring it can handle high current demands during operation. Additionally, its volumetric power density of 6095 W/l is among the highest in the database, providing the necessary power for demanding drone applications.
Application Challenges
In the realm of drones, safety and risk management are paramount, especially concerning overheating and thermal runaway during flight. The Molicel P30B cell addresses these challenges by providing a robust design that can withstand high discharge rates while maintaining thermal stability. The ability to deliver a maximum continuous discharge of 30 A ensures that the cell can support the high power requirements of UAVs, particularly in critical situations where performance is essential. Furthermore, the high energy density of the P30B allows for longer flight times, which is crucial for missions that require extended operational periods without the need for frequent recharging.
Why this Cell
The Molicel P30B cell is specifically designed to meet the rigorous demands of drone applications. With a maximum continuous discharge rate of 30 A, it is well-suited for high-drain scenarios, ensuring that UAVs can perform optimally without the risk of overheating. The cell's volumetric energy density of 609 Wh/l is significantly above the median, allowing for lightweight battery packs that do not compromise on performance. This is critical for applications such as long endurance flights and heavy-lift operations, where every gram counts. Additionally, the cell's thermal management capabilities help prevent overheating, making it a safe choice for various drone missions.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in optimising the performance of the Molicel P30B cell in drone applications. By simulating load profiles and thermal behaviour, engineers can predict how the cell will perform under different conditions, such as varying temperatures and discharge rates. This predictive capability allows for the selection of the most suitable cell for specific missions, ensuring that the drone can operate safely and efficiently. For instance, modelling the thermal rise during high discharge scenarios helps identify potential overheating issues before they occur, allowing for proactive design adjustments. Furthermore, simulations can assist in determining the optimal charge and discharge cycles, maximising the cell's lifespan and reliability in the field.


