Murata VTC5 Maximise flight time - optimise the cell selection, duty cycle and flight speed to maximise flight time.
Discover the Murata VTC5 cell for UAVs, optimising flight time and performance with high energy density and lightweight design for drone applications.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 18650 form factor for compact integration.
Nominal capacity of 9.36 Wh and 2.6 Ah for reliable energy supply.
Top-quartile volumetric energy density of 543 Wh/l for extended flight times.
Maximum continuous discharge of 30 A, ensuring high performance under load.
Gravimetric power density of 2,438 W/kg, ideal for dynamic UAV applications.
About the Cell
The Murata VTC5 is a cylindrical 18650 lithium-ion cell designed for UAV applications, featuring a nominal capacity of 9.36 Wh and 2.6 Ah. With a volumetric energy density of 543 Wh/l, it ranks among the highest in the database, enabling long endurance missions. The cell also boasts a maximum continuous discharge rate of 30 A, which is top-quartile compared to the median of 30 A in the database. Its gravimetric energy density of 211 Wh/kg is around the median, making it a reliable choice for drone battery design. The VTC5's compact size and lightweight design, with a mass of 44.3 g, allow for efficient integration into UAV systems, ensuring optimal performance without compromising payload capacity. This cell is particularly suited for applications requiring high energy density and lightweight characteristics, such as VTOL and heavy-lift drones. The standard charge current of 2.5 A and maximum continuous charge of 4.0 A further enhance its usability in various operational scenarios, making it a versatile option for UAV battery pack design.
Application Challenges
In the context of EVTOL applications, maximising flight time is critical. The Murata VTC5 cell addresses this challenge by providing a high energy density solution that optimises the cell selection, duty cycle, and flight speed. The ability to maintain high performance under varying loads is essential for UAVs, particularly in demanding environments. The VTC5's specifications allow for effective battery thermal management, preventing overheating and ensuring safe operation during extended missions. This is crucial for improving UAV mission endurance, especially in scenarios where every minute of airtime counts. The lightweight design of the VTC5 also contributes to enhancing drone efficiency, allowing for longer flight durations without the need for excessive battery weight. By utilising this cell, operators can achieve reliable performance in extreme environments, addressing the pain points of drone battery overheating and accurate state of charge (SOC) prediction.
Why this Cell
The Murata VTC5 cell is an excellent choice for UAV applications due to its impressive specifications. With a volumetric energy density of 543 Wh/l, it ranks among the highest in the database, enabling longer flight times compared to competitors. The maximum continuous discharge rate of 30 A ensures that the cell can handle high power demands, making it suitable for dynamic flight profiles. Additionally, the gravimetric power density of 2,438 W/kg is top-quartile, allowing for efficient energy use during operations. This cell's design facilitates optimal battery thermal management, crucial for preventing overheating during high discharge scenarios. By selecting the VTC5, UAV manufacturers can enhance their drone battery pack design, ensuring that they meet the rigorous demands of modern aerial applications while maximising flight time and operational efficiency.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a vital role in optimising the performance of the Murata VTC5 cell for UAV applications. By modelling load profiles and thermal behaviour, engineers can predict how the cell will perform under various conditions, including high discharge rates and temperature fluctuations. This predictive capability allows for informed decision-making when selecting the best cells for drone endurance. For instance, simulations can identify the optimal duty cycle and flight speed that maximise energy use while minimising thermal risks. Additionally, voltage sag and usable energy can be accurately forecasted, ensuring that operators have a clear understanding of the cell's capabilities throughout the flight envelope. This level of analysis not only enhances battery performance testing but also builds confidence in the reliability of the UAV's powertrain efficiency, ultimately leading to safer and more effective drone operations.
