Molicel P50B Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Explore Molicel P50B for UAV battery pack design, addressing weight vs power trade-offs to enhance drone performance and mission endurance.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor for optimal space utilisation.
Nominal capacity of 18.0 Wh and 5.0 Ah for reliable energy supply.
Volumetric energy density of 703 Wh/l, top-quartile vs median.
Gravimetric power density of 3085 W/kg, among the highest in database.
Maximum continuous discharge of 60 A, ensuring high performance under load.
About the Cell
The Molicel P50B is a cylindrical 21700 lithium-ion cell designed for UAV applications, featuring a nominal capacity of 18.0 Wh and 5.0 Ah. With a volumetric energy density of 703 Wh/l, it ranks in the top-quartile compared to the median of 541.67 Wh/l in the database. The gravimetric energy density stands at 257.14 Wh/kg, which is around the median of 210 Wh/kg. Additionally, it boasts a volumetric power density of 8440.8 W/l, which is among the highest in the database, and a gravimetric power density of 3085.71 W/kg, also among the highest. The cell supports a standard charge current of 5.0 A and a maximum continuous charge of 25.0 A, making it suitable for demanding UAV applications.
Application Challenges
In the context of EVTOL and the weight versus power trade-off in pack design, selecting the right battery cell is crucial. UAVs require batteries that not only provide sufficient energy for extended flight times but also maintain a lightweight profile to enhance overall efficiency. The challenge lies in balancing these two factors to optimise performance. For instance, high energy density is essential for long endurance drone batteries, while lightweight designs are critical for heavy lift drone batteries. The Molicel P50B addresses these challenges effectively, providing a robust solution for UAV battery pack design.
Why this Cell
The Molicel P50B is an ideal choice for UAV applications due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge of 60 A, it ensures high performance during demanding operations, which is crucial for applications requiring rapid power delivery. The cell's volumetric energy density of 703 Wh/l places it in the top-quartile compared to the median of 541.67 Wh/l, allowing for more energy storage in a compact form. This is particularly beneficial for drone battery design, where space is often limited. Furthermore, the gravimetric power density of 3085 W/kg enhances drone powertrain efficiency, making it a preferred option for custom UAV battery packs.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a vital role in optimising UAV battery performance. By modelling load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can predict how the Molicel P50B will perform under various conditions. This approach allows for accurate assessments of usable energy and thermal management, ensuring that the selected cell meets the specific demands of the mission profile. For example, simulations can help identify the optimal charge and discharge rates, preventing overheating and extending the battery's lifespan. This predictive capability is essential for ensuring reliability in critical UAV operations, particularly in extreme environments.
