Molicel P42B EVTOL Maximise flight time - optimise the cell selection, duty cycle and flight speed to maximise flight time.
Discover the Molicel P42B cell for EVTOL applications, optimising flight time and overcoming challenges in drone battery design.
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 591 Wh/l for extended flight.
Maximum continuous discharge of 45 A, ensuring high performance.
Gravimetric power density of 2314 W/kg, ideal for UAV applications.
About the Cell
The Molicel P42B is a cylindrical 21700 lithium-ion cell designed for high-performance applications, particularly in EVTOL and drone technologies. With a nominal capacity of 15.12 Wh (4.2 Ah), it provides a robust energy solution for demanding UAV operations. The cell boasts a volumetric energy density of 591 Wh/l, placing it in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 542 Wh/l, which is crucial for maximising flight time. Additionally, its gravimetric energy density of 216 Wh/kg is around the median, ensuring a lightweight design that does not compromise on energy storage. The cell's volumetric power density of 6331 W/l is among the highest in the database, allowing for rapid energy delivery during peak demands. Furthermore, the maximum continuous discharge rate of 45 A positions it well for high-drain applications, making it suitable for various UAV missions.
Application Challenges
In the context of EVTOL applications, maximising flight time is paramount. The Molicel P42B cell is engineered to meet the challenges of drone battery design, particularly in optimising cell selection, duty cycles, and flight speeds. The ability to deliver high energy density is essential for extending drone flight time, especially in demanding environments. The challenge lies in ensuring that the battery can sustain high discharge rates without overheating, which is critical for maintaining operational safety and efficiency. The P42B's specifications allow it to excel in these areas, providing a reliable power source for long endurance missions. By optimising the cell selection and understanding the duty cycle, operators can significantly improve UAV mission endurance, ensuring that drones can complete their tasks without the risk of mid-air failure.
Why this Cell
The Molicel P42B cell is an excellent choice for EVTOL applications due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge rate of 45 A, it is positioned in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 30 A, ensuring that it can handle the high demands of UAV operations. Its volumetric energy density of 591 Wh/l is significantly above the median, allowing for longer flight times without increasing weight. This is particularly important in drone battery optimisation, where every gram counts. The cell's gravimetric power density of 2314 W/kg is also noteworthy, providing the necessary power for rapid acceleration and sustained flight. These features make the Molicel P42B an ideal candidate for custom UAV battery packs, ensuring that operators can achieve their mission objectives efficiently.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in selecting the right battery for UAV applications. By simulating load profiles and thermal behaviour, engineers can predict how the Molicel P42B cell will perform under various conditions. This includes modelling heat generation and voltage sag, which are critical for understanding the usable energy throughout the flight. For instance, by analysing the thermal rise during high discharge scenarios, designers can ensure that the cell operates within safe limits, preventing overheating and potential failure. Additionally, simulation allows for the optimisation of duty cycles, helping to identify the most efficient flight speeds and energy usage patterns. This data-driven approach not only enhances the reliability of the UAV but also reduces the need for costly trial-and-error testing, ultimately leading to more successful missions.
