Molicel P42B Drone Application: Weight v Power Trade Off in Pack Design - How to Pick the Right Balance
Explore the Molicel P42B cell for drones, optimising weight and power trade-offs for enhanced performance in UAV 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 power density (+58% vs median 750 W/kg) for brisk current draws.
Volumetric energy density of 590 Wh/l, enhancing space efficiency.
Maximum continuous discharge of 45 A, supporting high-performance applications.
About the Cell
The Molicel P42B is a cylindrical 21700 lithium-ion cell designed for drone applications, boasting a nominal capacity of 15.12 Wh and 4.2 Ah. With a volumetric energy density of 590 Wh/l and a gravimetric energy density of 216 Wh/kg, it provides an efficient energy solution for UAVs. The cell's volumetric power density of 6330.6 W/l and gravimetric power density of 2314.29 W/kg place it among the highest in the database, ensuring it meets the demanding requirements of drone battery design. The P42B's maximum continuous discharge rate of 45 A allows for high-performance applications, making it suitable for various UAV missions. This cell is ideal for those looking to optimise their drone battery packs while maintaining a balance between weight and power.
Application Challenges
In the context of drones, the challenge of weight versus power trade-off in pack design is critical. Drones require lightweight battery solutions that do not compromise on power delivery, especially for applications like long endurance flights and heavy-lift missions. The Molicel P42B addresses these challenges with its high energy density and power capabilities, allowing for extended flight times while keeping the overall weight of the UAV manageable. This balance is essential for ensuring that drones can operate efficiently in various environments, from industrial inspections to emergency response scenarios.
Why this Cell
The Molicel P42B cell is an excellent choice for drone applications due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge of 45 A, it supports high-performance UAV operations, making it suitable for demanding missions. Its volumetric energy density of 590 Wh/l is significantly above the median of 541.667 Wh/l, providing a compact solution for energy storage. Additionally, the cell's gravimetric power density of 2314.29 W/kg is in the top-quartile compared to the database median, ensuring that it can deliver power efficiently when needed. This combination of high energy and power densities makes the P42B a prime candidate for optimising UAV battery packs while addressing the weight versus power challenge.
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 and thermal behaviour, engineers can predict how the Molicel P42B will perform under various conditions. This includes assessing voltage sag, heat generation, and usable energy throughout the flight. For instance, by modelling the thermal rise during high discharge scenarios, designers can ensure that the P42B operates within safe limits, preventing overheating and extending the cell's lifespan. This approach allows for informed decision-making, reducing the risk of trial-and-error testing and ensuring that the selected cell meets the specific needs of the mission profile.
