Murata VTC5A Drones Maximise flight time - optimise the cell selection, duty cycle and flight speed to maximise flight time.
Discover the Murata VTC5A cell for drones, optimising flight time with high energy density and performance for UAV applications.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 18650 form factor for compact designs.
Nominal capacity of 9.36 Wh and 2.6 Ah for efficient energy storage.
Top-quartile volumetric energy density of 543 Wh/l for lightweight applications.
Maximum continuous discharge of 35 A, ideal for high-demand UAV operations.
Gravimetric power density of 2,681 W/kg, ensuring robust performance under load.

About the Cell
The Murata VTC5A is a cylindrical 18650 lithium-ion cell designed for drone applications, boasting a nominal capacity of 9.36 Wh (2.6 Ah) and a volumetric energy density of 543 Wh/l. This cell excels in high energy density, making it suitable for lightweight drone battery packs. With a maximum continuous discharge of 35 A, it supports demanding UAV operations, ensuring reliable performance during critical missions. Additionally, its gravimetric energy density of 199 Wh/kg positions it among the top-quartile in the market, providing excellent energy storage relative to weight. The VTC5A's volumetric power density of 7,309 W/l further enhances its appeal for applications requiring quick bursts of power, such as take-offs and rapid manoeuvres. Overall, the VTC5A is engineered to meet the rigorous demands of drone battery design, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.
Application Challenges
In the realm of drones, maximising flight time is crucial for operational efficiency. The Murata VTC5A cell addresses this challenge by optimising cell selection, duty cycle, and flight speed. Drones require batteries that can deliver consistent power while maintaining a lightweight profile. The VTC5A's high energy density allows for extended flight durations, which is essential for applications such as industrial inspections, surveying, and emergency response. Furthermore, the ability to manage thermal performance is vital to prevent overheating during prolonged use, ensuring safety and reliability. By leveraging advanced battery thermal management techniques, the VTC5A can sustain high discharge rates without compromising performance, making it a suitable choice for UAV battery optimisation.
Why this Cell
The Murata VTC5A cell is an ideal choice for drone applications focused on maximising flight time. With a nominal capacity of 9.36 Wh and a maximum continuous discharge of 35 A, it stands out in the market, achieving a top-quartile performance compared to the database median of 30 A. Its volumetric energy density of 543 Wh/l is also impressive, exceeding the median of 542 Wh/l, which is crucial for lightweight drone battery packs. The VTC5A's gravimetric power density of 2,681 W/kg ensures that it can handle high power demands, making it suitable for various UAV missions. By selecting the VTC5A, designers can optimise drone battery packs for endurance and efficiency, ensuring that every flight is maximised for performance and safety.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a pivotal role in optimising the selection of the Murata VTC5A cell for drone applications. By simulating load profiles, engineers can assess the thermal behaviour of the cell under various operational conditions, predicting heat generation and voltage response. This allows for accurate modelling of usable energy throughout the flight envelope, ensuring that the selected cell meets the demands of the mission. Additionally, simulations can identify the optimal duty cycle and flight speed, enabling designers to maximise flight time while maintaining safety margins. By leveraging these advanced modelling techniques, UAV manufacturers can confidently select the VTC5A cell, reducing the risk of mid-air failures and enhancing overall mission reliability.


