Molicel P42A 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 P42A, designed for fast charging in EVTOL applications, ensuring safety and efficiency without overheating or lithium plating.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor for compact design.
Nominal capacity of 15.12 Wh and 4.2 Ah for reliable performance.
Top-quartile volumetric energy density of 600 Wh/l for efficient space usage.
Maximum continuous discharge of 45 A, ideal for high-demand applications.
Gravimetric power density of 2314 W/kg, supporting rapid energy delivery.
About the Cell
The Molicel P42A is a cylindrical 21700 cell with a nominal capacity of 15.12 Wh (4.2 Ah). It boasts a volumetric energy density of 600 Wh/l, placing it in the top-quartile of the market, and a gravimetric energy density of 216 Wh/kg, which is around the median for similar cells. The cell's maximum continuous discharge rate of 45 A (10.7 C) is significantly above the median of 30 A, making it suitable for demanding applications. Additionally, the volumetric power density of 6433 W/l is among the highest in the database, ensuring it can handle high current draws efficiently. This combination of features makes the P42A an excellent choice for fast-charging applications, particularly in EVTOL scenarios where weight and space are critical.
Application Challenges
In EVTOL applications, fast charging of batteries is crucial to ensure operational efficiency. The challenge lies in charging the Molicel P42A quickly without overheating the cells or causing lithium plating, which can degrade battery performance and safety. The high energy density of the P42A allows for rapid energy transfer, but managing the thermal dynamics during this process is essential. Effective thermal management strategies must be implemented to prevent overheating, which can lead to battery failure or safety hazards. The ability to charge at a maximum continuous rate of 8.4 A (2.0 C) while maintaining safety standards is vital for the success of UAV operations, especially in time-sensitive missions.
Why this Cell
The Molicel P42A is specifically designed for fast charging in EVTOL applications, with a maximum continuous charge rate of 8.4 A (2.0 C), which is significantly higher than the median of 8 A in the market. This allows for quick turnaround times between flights, enhancing operational efficiency. Its top-quartile volumetric energy density of 600 Wh/l ensures that even with rapid charging, the cell maintains a compact form factor, essential for UAV designs. Furthermore, the high gravimetric power density of 2314 W/kg supports the rapid discharge needed for demanding flight profiles, making it an ideal choice for applications that require both speed and reliability.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a critical role in optimising the performance of the Molicel P42A in EVTOL 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 fast charging and ensuring that the internal temperature remains within safe limits. Additionally, simulations can help in understanding voltage sag and usable energy across different discharge rates, allowing for informed decisions on cell selection. This approach reduces the risk of overheating and lithium plating, ensuring that the P42A can deliver reliable performance in real-world scenarios.
