Molicel P42A Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Explore the Molicel P42A cell for UAV applications, optimising weight and power for enhanced drone performance and endurance.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor for compact design.
Nominal capacity of 15.12 Wh and 4.2 Ah for efficient energy storage.
Top-quartile volumetric energy density of 600 Wh/l for lightweight packs.
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 lithium-ion cell designed for UAV applications, featuring a nominal capacity of 15.12 Wh and 4.2 Ah. With a volumetric energy density of 600 Wh/l, it stands out in the market, being in the top-quartile compared to the median of 541.67 Wh/l. The cell's gravimetric energy density is 216 Wh/kg, which is around the median of 210 Wh/kg, ensuring a good balance between weight and energy storage. The maximum continuous discharge current of 45 A positions it among the highest in the database, allowing for robust performance in demanding scenarios. Additionally, the cell's volumetric power density of 6433.68 W/l is significantly above the median of 2029.31 W/l, making it suitable for applications requiring high power output.
Application Challenges
In the context of EVTOL and the weight versus power trade-off in pack design, selecting the right battery is crucial. UAVs often face stringent weight limitations while needing to deliver high power for take-off and sustained flight. The Molicel P42A's specifications allow for a careful balance, ensuring that the battery can support the required thrust without adding excessive weight. The challenge lies in optimising the battery pack to extend flight times while maintaining safety and performance, especially in extreme environments where temperature fluctuations can affect battery efficiency.
Why this Cell
The Molicel P42A is an excellent choice for UAV applications due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge of 45 A, it is positioned among the highest in the database, ensuring that it can handle the demands of high-energy applications. Its volumetric energy density of 600 Wh/l is in the top-quartile, allowing for lightweight battery packs that do not compromise on performance. This balance is essential for UAVs, where every gram counts towards overall efficiency and flight time. The cell's gravimetric power density of 2314 W/kg supports rapid energy delivery, making it ideal for dynamic flight profiles.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a critical role in optimising UAV battery performance. By modelling load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can predict how the Molicel P42A will perform under various conditions. This approach allows for the identification of the best cell for specific mission profiles, ensuring that the selected battery can deliver the required energy without overheating or suffering from voltage sag. For instance, simulating different flight scenarios can help determine the optimal discharge rates and energy consumption patterns, leading to more efficient battery pack designs that enhance overall UAV performance.
