Murata VTC5 Drones Maximise flight time - optimise the cell selection, duty cycle and flight speed to maximise flight time.
Discover the Murata VTC5 cell for drones, optimising flight time with high energy density and performance for UAV applications.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 18650 form factor for compact design.
Nominal capacity of 9.36 Wh (2.6 Ah) for extended usage.
Top-quartile volumetric energy density of 543 Wh/l.
Maximum continuous discharge of 30 A for high performance.
Gravimetric power density of 2,438 W/kg for efficient energy use.
About the Cell
The Murata VTC5 is a cylindrical 18650 lithium-ion cell designed specifically for drone applications. With a nominal capacity of 9.36 Wh and 2.6 Ah, it provides a robust energy solution for UAVs. The cell boasts a volumetric energy density of 543 Wh/l, placing it in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 542 Wh/l. Its gravimetric energy density of 211 Wh/kg is also competitive, being around the median of 210 Wh/kg. The VTC5 supports a standard charge current of 2.5 A and a maximum continuous charge of 4.0 A, ensuring efficient energy replenishment. Furthermore, it can handle a maximum continuous discharge of 30 A, which is among the highest in the database, allowing for high power demands during flight. This combination of features makes the VTC5 an excellent choice for drone battery design, particularly for applications requiring lightweight and high energy density solutions.
Application Challenges
In the realm of drones, maximising flight time is crucial. The challenge lies in optimising the cell selection, duty cycle, and flight speed to achieve this goal. Drones operate under varying conditions, and the ability to extend flight time directly impacts mission success. The Murata VTC5 cell addresses these challenges with its high energy density and robust discharge capabilities. For instance, the ability to sustain a maximum continuous discharge of 30 A allows drones to perform demanding tasks without compromising on flight duration. Additionally, the lightweight design of the VTC5 contributes to overall drone efficiency, making it suitable for long endurance missions. The need for reliable battery performance in extreme environments further emphasises the importance of selecting the right cell for UAV applications.
Why this Cell
The Murata VTC5 cell is particularly well-suited for drone applications due to its impressive specifications. With a volumetric energy density of 543 Wh/l, it is positioned in the top-quartile compared to the median of 542 Wh/l in the database, ensuring that drones can carry more energy without increasing weight. The maximum continuous discharge of 30 A allows for high power demands, which is essential for tasks requiring rapid acceleration or heavy lifting. Furthermore, the cell's gravimetric power density of 2,438 W/kg is advantageous for maintaining drone efficiency during flight. This combination of high energy and power densities makes the VTC5 an ideal choice for UAV battery optimisation, enabling longer missions and improved performance under varying operational conditions.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a critical role in optimising battery selection for drone applications. By simulating load profiles and thermal behaviour, engineers can predict how the Murata VTC5 cell will perform under different conditions. For example, modelling the thermal rise during high discharge scenarios helps in selecting cells that can maintain performance without overheating. Additionally, simulations can assess voltage sag and usable energy, providing insights into how the VTC5 will behave during actual flights. This data-driven approach allows for confident decision-making in cell selection, ensuring that the chosen battery meets the specific demands of the mission profile. Ultimately, simulation reduces the risk of trial-and-error testing, leading to more efficient and reliable drone operations.
