Molicel P42A EVTOL Maximise flight time - optimise the cell selection, duty cycle and flight speed to maximise flight time.
Discover the Molicel P42A cell for EVTOL applications, designed to maximise flight time and optimise performance under demanding conditions.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor for efficient design.
Nominal capacity of 15.12 Wh and 4.2 Ah.
Volumetric energy density of 600 Wh/l, top-quartile vs median.
Gravimetric power density of 2314 W/kg, +58% vs median.
Maximum continuous discharge of 45 A, top-quartile vs median.
About the Cell
The Molicel P42A is a cylindrical 21700 lithium-ion cell, featuring a nominal capacity of 15.12 Wh (4.2 Ah) and an impressive volumetric energy density of 600 Wh/l, which places it among the highest in the database. Its gravimetric energy density is 216 Wh/kg, which is around the median. The cell also boasts a volumetric power density of 6433 W/l, significantly higher than the median of 2029 W/l, making it ideal for applications requiring high energy output. The maximum continuous discharge rate of 45 A (10.7 C) is in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 30 A, ensuring robust performance under demanding conditions. Additionally, the maximum continuous charge rate of 8.4 A (2.0 C) supports rapid recharging, enhancing operational efficiency.
Application Challenges
In the EVTOL sector, maximising flight time is critical. The Molicel P42A cell addresses this challenge by optimising cell selection, duty cycle, and flight speed. High energy density is essential for extending drone flight duration, particularly in applications such as industrial inspections or emergency response. The ability to deliver consistent power while maintaining thermal stability is paramount, as overheating can lead to battery failure. The P42A's design mitigates these risks, ensuring reliable performance in extreme environments, which is crucial for UAV operators who depend on their drones for mission-critical tasks.
Why this Cell
The Molicel P42A cell is specifically designed for EVTOL applications, where maximising flight time is essential. With a volumetric energy density of 600 Wh/l, it is positioned in the top-quartile compared to the median of 541 Wh/l, allowing for longer missions without increasing weight. The maximum continuous discharge rate of 45 A ensures that the cell can handle high power demands, which is vital for UAV battery optimisation. This capability, combined with its lightweight design, makes it an ideal choice for drone battery cell selection, particularly for high energy density drone batteries.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in optimising battery performance for EVTOL applications. By modelling load profiles and thermal behaviour, engineers can predict how the Molicel P42A cell will perform under various conditions. This includes assessing voltage sag, heat generation, and usable energy throughout the flight envelope. Such simulations enable the selection of the most suitable cell for specific mission profiles, ensuring that the drone can achieve its operational goals without compromising safety or efficiency. This approach reduces the risk of costly trial-and-error testing and enhances overall UAV battery performance.
