Molicel P42B - Maximise flight time - optimise the cell selection, duty cycle and flight speed to maximise flight time.
Discover Molicel P42B cells designed to maximise flight time for drones, optimising performance and efficiency in aerospace applications.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor for compact design.
Nominal capacity of 15.12 Wh and 4.2 Ah for reliable energy supply.
Top-quartile volumetric energy density of 591 Wh/l for extended flight durations.
Maximum continuous discharge of 45 A, supporting high power demands.
Gravimetric power density of 2314 W/kg, ideal for lightweight drone applications.

About the Cell
The Molicel P42B is a cylindrical 21700 cell with a nominal capacity of 15.12 Wh and 4.2 Ah, making it a robust choice for drone applications. It boasts a volumetric energy density of 591 Wh/l, placing it in the top-quartile compared to the median of 542 Wh/l in the database. With a gravimetric energy density of 216 Wh/kg, it provides a lightweight solution for UAVs. The cell's maximum continuous discharge rate of 45 A ensures it can handle high power demands, while its volumetric power density of 6331 W/l is among the highest in the database, supporting efficient energy delivery during flight. This combination of features makes the P42B an excellent choice for optimising drone performance in aerospace applications.
Application Challenges
In aerospace applications, maximising flight time is critical. The Molicel P42B cell addresses this challenge by providing high energy density and efficient power delivery. Drones require reliable energy sources to operate effectively, especially in demanding environments. The ability to optimise cell selection, duty cycle, and flight speed is essential for extending flight duration. The high energy density of the P42B allows for longer missions without the need for frequent recharging, which is vital for applications such as industrial inspections and emergency response. Additionally, the lightweight nature of the cell contributes to improved UAV mission endurance, making it suitable for various drone types, including VTOL and fixed-wing designs.
Why this Cell
The Molicel P42B is specifically designed to meet the demands of aerospace applications where maximising flight time is paramount. With a maximum continuous discharge rate of 45 A, it is well-suited for high discharge rate UAV batteries, ensuring that drones can perform under heavy loads without overheating. Its volumetric energy density of 591 Wh/l is significantly above the median of 542 Wh/l, allowing for longer flight times and improved mission efficiency. The lightweight design, with a gravimetric energy density of 216 Wh/kg, supports the development of lightweight drone battery packs, essential for enhancing UAV performance. This cell is an ideal choice for engineers looking to optimise drone battery packs for endurance and reliability.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in selecting the right battery cells for drone applications. By simulating load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can accurately predict how the Molicel P42B will perform under various conditions. This approach allows for the identification of optimal duty cycles and flight speeds that maximise flight time. For instance, modelling the thermal rise and energy output of the P42B helps prevent overheating and ensures safe operation during demanding missions. Additionally, simulations can provide insights into usable energy across the entire flight envelope, enabling real-time decision-making for mission feasibility. This predictive capability is essential for ensuring that drones can reliably complete their missions, particularly in challenging environments.


