Murata VTC5D Drones Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Explore the Murata VTC5D cell for drones, optimising weight and power for enhanced performance in UAV battery pack design.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 18650 form factor for versatile applications.
Nominal capacity of 10.08 Wh and 2.8 Ah for reliable energy supply.
Top-quartile volumetric power density of 7184 W/l for high performance.
Gravimetric energy density of 215 Wh/kg ensures lightweight solutions.
Maximum continuous discharge of 35 A supports demanding applications.
About the Cell
The Murata VTC5D is a cylindrical 18650 lithium-ion cell designed for high-performance applications, particularly in drone technology. With a nominal capacity of 10.08 Wh (2.8 Ah), it provides a reliable energy source for various UAV applications. The cell boasts an impressive volumetric energy density of 575 Wh/l, which is around 10% above the database median of 541.67 Wh/l, making it suitable for lightweight drone battery packs. Additionally, its gravimetric energy density of 215 Wh/kg is around the median, ensuring a balance between weight and energy output. The cell's volumetric power density of 7184 W/l places it in the top-quartile, exceeding the median of 2029 W/l by +254%, which is crucial for applications requiring high power draws. Furthermore, the maximum continuous discharge rate of 35 A, which is significantly above the median of 30 A, allows for robust performance under demanding conditions. This combination of features makes the VTC5D an excellent choice for UAV battery optimisation, ensuring that drone manufacturers can achieve the desired weight-to-power ratio without compromising performance.
Application Challenges
In the realm of drone technology, the challenge of balancing weight and power in battery pack design is paramount. The Murata VTC5D cell addresses this challenge effectively. Drones require lightweight battery solutions that do not sacrifice energy capacity or discharge rates. The VTC5D's nominal capacity of 10.08 Wh and high energy density allow for extended flight times, which is critical for applications such as industrial inspections and emergency response. Additionally, the cell's high discharge capability ensures that drones can perform demanding tasks without overheating or experiencing voltage sag. As UAVs are often deployed in extreme environments, the ability to maintain performance under varying conditions is essential. The VTC5D's robust thermal management characteristics help prevent overheating, making it a reliable choice for drone battery design.
Why this Cell
The Murata VTC5D cell stands out in the competitive landscape of drone batteries due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge rate of 35 A, it is well-suited for high-demand applications, ensuring that drones can operate efficiently without overheating. This performance is complemented by its top-quartile volumetric power density of 7184 W/l, which is crucial for applications requiring rapid bursts of power. Furthermore, the cell's gravimetric energy density of 215 Wh/kg ensures that drone manufacturers can achieve a lightweight design without compromising on energy capacity. This balance is vital for UAV battery pack design, where every gram counts. By selecting the VTC5D, engineers can optimise their designs for both performance and endurance, making it an ideal choice for custom UAV battery packs.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a critical role in optimising the selection of battery cells for drone applications. By simulating load profiles and thermal behaviour, engineers can accurately predict how the Murata VTC5D will perform under various conditions. This includes assessing voltage sag during high discharge scenarios and understanding the thermal rise associated with prolonged use. Such modelling allows for the identification of the most suitable cell for specific mission profiles, ensuring that the selected battery can deliver the required thrust and energy throughout the flight. Additionally, simulation helps in evaluating the impact of different environmental conditions on battery performance, enabling engineers to make informed decisions that enhance UAV mission endurance and reliability. By leveraging these advanced design techniques, manufacturers can avoid costly trial-and-error testing and ensure that their drones are equipped with the best possible battery solutions.
