Murata VTC6A Drones Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Discover the Murata VTC6A cell for drones, optimising weight and power for enhanced performance in UAV applications. Learn more about its capabilities.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor for efficient space utilisation.
Nominal capacity of 14.44 Wh and 4.1 Ah for reliable energy supply.
Top-quartile volumetric energy density of 578 Wh/l, +10% vs median.
Maximum continuous discharge of 40 A, ensuring high performance under load.
Gravimetric power density of 1981 W/kg, supporting dynamic UAV operations.
About the Cell
The Murata VTC6A is a cylindrical 21700 lithium-ion cell designed for drone applications, featuring a nominal capacity of 14.44 Wh (4.1 Ah) and a volumetric energy density of 578 Wh/l. This cell excels in both energy and power density, with a volumetric power density of 5762 W/l and a gravimetric power density of 1981 W/kg, making it suitable for high-performance UAVs. Compared to the database median, the VTC6A's volumetric energy density is in the top-quartile, being +10% higher than the median of 541.67 Wh/l. Its maximum continuous discharge current of 40 A positions it well above the median of 30 A, ensuring it can handle demanding flight profiles effectively. The cell's design prioritises lightweight construction, weighing only 72.7 g, which is crucial for drone applications where weight is a critical factor.
Application Challenges
In the context of drones, the challenge of balancing weight and power is paramount. The Murata VTC6A cell addresses the need for lightweight drone battery packs that do not compromise on performance. With a nominal capacity of 14.44 Wh, it provides sufficient energy for extended flight times while maintaining a low mass. The weight vs power trade-off is essential for UAVs, as it directly impacts flight endurance and payload capacity. High energy density is crucial for long endurance drone batteries, allowing operators to maximise mission efficiency without frequent recharges. Additionally, the ability to manage thermal performance is vital to prevent overheating during high discharge scenarios, ensuring safe operation in various environments.
Why this Cell
The Murata VTC6A cell is an excellent choice for drone applications due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge of 40 A, it is positioned in the top-quartile compared to the median of 30 A, allowing for high discharge rates essential for dynamic UAV operations. Its volumetric energy density of 578 Wh/l is also noteworthy, being +10% higher than the median, which translates to longer flight times and improved mission endurance. The lightweight design, combined with a gravimetric power density of 1981 W/kg, supports the need for high performance in drone battery design, making it a reliable option for custom UAV battery packs. This cell's characteristics align perfectly with the demands of UAV battery optimisation, ensuring that operators can achieve the best balance between weight and power.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in optimising the selection of battery cells for drone applications. By simulating load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can accurately predict how the Murata VTC6A will perform under various conditions. This approach allows for the assessment of heat generation and energy output, ensuring that the selected cell meets the specific requirements of the mission profile. For instance, simulations can identify the optimal discharge rates and thermal management strategies, preventing overheating and ensuring safe operation. Additionally, modelling can help in predicting the usable energy across different flight scenarios, enabling operators to make informed decisions about battery selection and pack design. This data-driven approach reduces the risk of trial-and-error testing, leading to more efficient UAV battery pack design and improved overall performance.
