Molicel P60B Drones Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Explore the Molicel P60B for drone applications, balancing weight and power for optimal performance in UAV battery pack design.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor for compact design.
Nominal capacity of 21.6 Wh and 6.0 Ah for reliable energy supply.
Top-quartile volumetric power density of 14,337 W/l for high performance.
Gravimetric energy density of 288 Wh/kg, ideal for lightweight drone battery packs.
Maximum continuous discharge of 100 A, ensuring robust power delivery.
About the Cell
The Molicel P60B is a cylindrical 21700 lithium-ion cell, featuring a nominal capacity of 21.6 Wh and 6.0 Ah. This cell boasts impressive volumetric energy density at 860 Wh/l, which is significantly above the database median of 542 Wh/l, making it suitable for applications requiring high energy storage in compact formats. Additionally, its gravimetric energy density of 288 Wh/kg is also above the median of 210 Wh/kg, ensuring that it provides a lightweight solution for drone applications. The cell's maximum continuous discharge current of 100 A places it in the top-quartile compared to the median of 30 A, allowing for high power demands during operation. Furthermore, the volumetric power density of 14,337 W/l is among the highest in the database, enabling rapid energy delivery when needed. With a standard charge current of 6.0 A and a maximum continuous charge current of 30.0 A, the P60B supports efficient charging cycles, making it a versatile choice for UAV battery pack design.
Application Challenges
In the realm of drones, the challenge of balancing weight and power in battery pack design is paramount. The Molicel P60B addresses this challenge by providing a high energy density solution that does not compromise on weight. For UAVs, the ability to extend flight time while maintaining a lightweight profile is crucial. The P60B's specifications allow for a significant trade-off between energy storage and weight, enabling longer missions without the need for heavier battery packs. This is particularly important in applications such as long endurance drone batteries and heavy lift drone batteries, where every gram counts. The challenge lies in ensuring that the selected battery can deliver the required power without overheating or compromising safety, especially in extreme environments. The Molicel P60B's high discharge rates and robust thermal management capabilities make it an ideal candidate for these demanding applications.
Why this Cell
The Molicel P60B is specifically designed to meet the rigorous demands of drone applications, particularly in balancing weight and power. With a maximum continuous discharge of 100 A, it stands out in the market, being in the top-quartile compared to the median of 30 A. This capability ensures that UAVs can draw the necessary power for takeoff and sustained flight without risking battery failure. Additionally, the cell's gravimetric energy density of 288 Wh/kg is significantly higher than the median of 210 Wh/kg, making it an excellent choice for lightweight drone battery packs. The P60B's volumetric power density of 14,337 W/l is among the highest available, facilitating quick energy delivery during critical flight phases. These attributes make the P60B an optimal choice for custom UAV battery packs, where performance and reliability are essential.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in optimising battery selection for drone applications. By simulating load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage responses, engineers can accurately predict how the Molicel P60B will perform under various conditions. For instance, modelling the thermal rise during high discharge scenarios allows for the identification of potential overheating issues, ensuring that the cell operates within safe limits. This predictive capability is vital for applications requiring reliable performance in extreme environments, where temperature fluctuations can impact battery efficiency. Furthermore, simulations help in assessing usable energy across different flight profiles, enabling designers to select the most suitable cells for specific missions. By leveraging these advanced modelling techniques, UAV manufacturers can confidently choose the Molicel P60B, knowing it meets the demands of their operational requirements.
