Murata VTC6A Drones Maximise flight time - optimise the cell selection, duty cycle and flight speed to maximise flight time.
Explore the Murata VTC6A cell for drones, designed to maximise flight time while optimising cell selection and performance under demanding conditions.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor for compact design.
Nominal capacity of 14.44 Wh (4.1 Ah) for extended use.
Top-quartile volumetric energy density of 578 Wh/l.
Maximum continuous discharge of 40 A for high performance.
Gravimetric power density of 1981 W/kg for efficient energy use.
About the Cell
The Murata VTC6A is a cylindrical 21700 lithium-ion cell with a nominal capacity of 14.44 Wh (4.1 Ah). It features a volumetric energy density of 578 Wh/l, which is in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 542 Wh/l, providing excellent energy storage in a compact form. The cell also boasts a maximum continuous discharge rate of 40 A, which is significantly above the median of 30 A, making it suitable for high-demand applications like drones. Additionally, the gravimetric energy density is 199 Wh/kg, which is around the median, ensuring a balance between weight and energy capacity. This cell is designed to meet the rigorous demands of drone applications, where performance and reliability are critical.
Application Challenges
In the context of drones, maximising flight time is essential for operational efficiency. The Murata VTC6A cell addresses this challenge by providing high energy density and robust discharge capabilities. Drones often operate under varying loads and environmental conditions, making it crucial to optimise cell selection and performance. The ability to maintain a high discharge rate while ensuring thermal stability is vital to prevent overheating and extend mission endurance. By selecting the right battery cells, operators can enhance the overall performance of UAVs, ensuring they can complete their missions effectively, even in extreme environments.
Why this Cell
The Murata VTC6A cell is an ideal choice for drone applications aiming to maximise flight time. With a maximum continuous discharge of 40 A, it is in the top-quartile compared to the median of 30 A, allowing for high power output when needed. Its volumetric energy density of 578 Wh/l, which is +7% vs the median, ensures that drones can carry more energy without increasing weight significantly. This is crucial for applications requiring long endurance, such as surveillance or delivery missions. The cell's design also supports efficient thermal management, reducing the risk of overheating during high discharge scenarios, which is a common challenge in UAV battery optimisation.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a critical role in optimising the performance of the Murata VTC6A cell in drone applications. By modelling load profiles and thermal behaviour, engineers can predict how the cell will perform under various conditions, including different flight speeds and payloads. This allows for the identification of the optimal duty cycle that maximises flight time while ensuring safety and reliability. For instance, simulations can help determine the best charge and discharge rates to prevent overheating and ensure that the battery operates within safe limits. Additionally, accurate modelling of voltage sag and usable energy helps in making informed decisions about cell selection, ultimately leading to better mission planning and execution.
