Murata VTC6 Drones Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Explore the Murata VTC6 cell for drones, optimising weight and power for enhanced performance in UAV applications. Discover key benefits and challenges.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 18650 form factor for versatile drone applications.
Nominal capacity of 11.232 Wh and 3.12 Ah for reliable energy supply.
Top-quartile volumetric energy density of 653 Wh/l for compact designs.
Maximum continuous discharge of 30 A, ensuring high power output.
Gravimetric power density of 2,318 W/kg, ideal for lightweight UAVs.
About the Cell
The Murata VTC6 is a cylindrical 18650 lithium-ion cell designed for drone applications, featuring a nominal capacity of 11.232 Wh (3.12 Ah). With a volumetric energy density of 653 Wh/l, it ranks in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 542 Wh/l, making it suitable for compact UAV designs. The cell's gravimetric energy density of 241 Wh/kg is also noteworthy, being around the median of 210 Wh/kg, ensuring a lightweight solution for drone battery packs. Additionally, the VTC6 offers a maximum continuous discharge of 30 A, which is among the highest in the database, allowing for robust performance during demanding flight conditions. Its volumetric power density of 6,283 W/l is significantly higher than the median of 2,029 W/l, making it an excellent choice for high-energy applications.
Application Challenges
In the realm of drone technology, the challenge of balancing weight and power in battery pack design is paramount. Drones require lightweight components to maximise flight time while ensuring sufficient power for various applications. The Murata VTC6 cell addresses these challenges effectively. With its high energy density, it allows for longer endurance in UAVs, which is critical for missions that demand extended flight times. Furthermore, the ability to manage thermal performance is essential to prevent overheating, especially during high discharge scenarios. The VTC6's specifications enable it to meet the rigorous demands of drone operations, ensuring reliability and efficiency in diverse environments.
Why this Cell
The Murata VTC6 cell stands out in the competitive landscape of drone batteries due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge of 30 A, it is among the highest in the database, providing the necessary power for demanding UAV applications. Its volumetric energy density of 653 Wh/l places it in the top-quartile, allowing for compact battery designs without sacrificing performance. This is particularly important in drone applications where weight is a critical factor. The cell's gravimetric power density of 2,318 W/kg ensures that it remains lightweight while delivering high power, making it an ideal choice for custom UAV battery packs.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in optimising battery selection for drone applications. By simulating load profiles and thermal behaviour, engineers can predict how the Murata VTC6 cell will perform under various conditions. This includes assessing voltage sag, heat generation, and usable energy throughout the flight envelope. For instance, by modelling the thermal rise during high discharge scenarios, designers can ensure that the VTC6 operates within safe limits, preventing overheating and extending battery life. This approach allows for informed decision-making in cell selection, ensuring that the chosen battery meets the specific needs of the drone's mission profile.
