Murata VTC5 Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Explore the Murata VTC5 cell for UAV battery design, focusing on weight vs power trade-offs to enhance drone performance and endurance.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 18650 form factor for versatile applications.
Nominal capacity of 9.36 Wh and 2.6 Ah for reliable energy supply.
Top-quartile volumetric energy density of 543 Wh/l for compact designs.
Maximum continuous discharge of 30 A, ideal for high-demand UAVs.
Gravimetric power density of 2,438 W/kg, supporting rapid energy delivery.
About the Cell
The Murata VTC5 cell features a cylindrical 18650 form factor, providing a nominal capacity of 9.36 Wh and 2.6 Ah. With a volumetric energy density of 543 Wh/l, it ranks in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 542 Wh/l. The cell also boasts a gravimetric energy density of 211 Wh/kg, which is around the median of 210 Wh/kg. Its volumetric power density of 6,265 W/l is among the highest in the database, significantly enhancing its suitability for drone applications. The maximum continuous discharge rate of 30 A and a maximum continuous charge rate of 4 A ensure that the VTC5 can handle demanding operational profiles, making it a strong candidate for UAV battery pack design.
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 a delicate balance between weight and power to optimise flight time and payload capacity. The Murata VTC5 cell addresses these challenges effectively, providing high energy density while maintaining a lightweight profile. This is particularly important for applications like long endurance drone batteries and heavy lift drone batteries, where every gram counts. The ability to deliver high discharge rates without overheating is essential for maintaining operational efficiency and safety in extreme environments.
Why this Cell
The Murata VTC5 cell is an excellent choice for UAV applications due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge of 30 A, it is positioned in the top-quartile compared to the median of 30 A in the database. Its volumetric energy density of 543 Wh/l is also noteworthy, being around the median, which allows for compact battery designs that do not compromise on performance. The cell's gravimetric power density of 2,438 W/kg supports rapid energy delivery, making it ideal for applications requiring quick bursts of power. This combination of high energy and power density makes the VTC5 particularly suitable for drone battery design, ensuring that UAVs can achieve extended flight times and improved mission endurance.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a critical role in optimising UAV battery performance. By modelling load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can accurately predict how the Murata VTC5 cell will perform under various conditions. This approach allows for the selection of the most suitable cell for specific mission profiles, ensuring that the battery can deliver the required thrust and energy throughout the flight. For instance, simulating the thermal rise and internal temperature of the VTC5 during high discharge scenarios helps prevent overheating, thereby enhancing safety and reliability. Additionally, accurate modelling of usable energy enables engineers to make informed decisions about battery capacity and configuration, ultimately leading to more efficient UAV designs.
