Molicel P60B Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Explore the Molicel P60B for UAV battery optimisation, addressing weight vs power trade-offs for enhanced drone performance and endurance.
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 applications.
Maximum continuous discharge of 100 A, supporting demanding UAV operations.
About the Cell
The Molicel P60B features a cylindrical 21700 form factor, providing a nominal capacity of 21.6 Wh and 6.0 Ah. With a volumetric energy density of 860 Wh/l, it is among the highest in the database, facilitating efficient space utilisation in UAV designs. The gravimetric energy density of 288 Wh/kg positions it well for lightweight drone applications, ensuring that the battery contributes minimally to overall weight while maximising energy output. The cell also boasts a volumetric power density of 14,337 W/l, which is top-quartile compared to the database median, allowing for brisk current draws essential in UAV operations. Additionally, the maximum continuous discharge rate of 100 A ensures that the cell can handle high power demands without compromising performance, making it an excellent choice for high-energy density drone batteries.
Application Challenges
In the context of EVTOL and the weight vs 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 optimise performance. The challenge lies in balancing these two factors; a heavier battery may reduce flight efficiency, while an underpowered battery can limit operational range and capabilities. The Molicel P60B addresses these challenges with its high energy density and robust discharge capabilities, making it suitable for long endurance drone batteries and heavy lift drone applications. By leveraging advanced battery thermal management techniques, operators can prevent overheating and ensure safe battery operation, which is critical in extreme environments.
Why this Cell
The Molicel P60B is specifically designed to meet the demands of UAV applications, particularly in the context of weight vs power trade-offs. With a maximum continuous discharge rate of 100 A, it is positioned in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 30 A, allowing for high discharge rate UAV batteries that can support intensive flight profiles. Its gravimetric energy density of 288 Wh/kg ensures that it remains lightweight, which is essential for improving UAV mission endurance. This cell's ability to deliver high energy output while maintaining a compact form factor makes it an ideal choice for custom UAV battery packs, ensuring that operators can achieve optimal performance without compromising on safety or efficiency.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a pivotal role in optimising battery selection for UAV applications. By modelling load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can predict how different cells will perform under various conditions. For instance, simulating the thermal rise and voltage sag of the Molicel P60B during high discharge scenarios allows for accurate predictions of usable energy and helps in selecting the best cell for specific mission profiles. This approach not only aids in preventing overheating but also enhances the reliability of drone operations, ensuring that the selected battery can meet the required thrust and energy demands throughout the flight envelope. By utilising cell-specific data, operators can make informed decisions that enhance drone powertrain efficiency and extend flight times, ultimately leading to more successful UAV missions.
