Murata VTC6A Safety and risk management - particularly around overheating and thermal runaway during flight.
Explore the Murata VTC6A cell for EVTOL applications, addressing safety and thermal challenges with high energy density and performance.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor for compact UAV designs.
Nominal capacity of 14.44 Wh and 4.1 Ah for extended flight times.
Top-quartile volumetric power density of 5762 W/l for high performance.
Maximum continuous discharge of 40 A, ideal for demanding applications.
Gravimetric energy density of 199 Wh/kg supports lightweight designs.
About the Cell
The Murata VTC6A cell features a cylindrical 21700 form factor, providing a nominal capacity of 14.44 Wh and 4.1 Ah. With a volumetric energy density of 578 Wh/l, it ranks among the highest in the database, exceeding the median of 542 Wh/l by +6%. The gravimetric energy density stands at 199 Wh/kg, which is around the median of 210 Wh/kg. The cell's volumetric power density is 5762 W/l, placing it in the top-quartile compared to the median of 2029 W/l, with a significant +184% increase. Additionally, the maximum continuous discharge current of 40 A is well above the median of 30 A, making it suitable for high-demand applications. The standard charge current of 4.5 A and maximum continuous charge current of 9 A further enhance its usability in various UAV designs.
Application Challenges
In EVTOL applications, safety and risk management are paramount, particularly concerning overheating and thermal runaway during flight. The Murata VTC6A cell's high energy density is crucial for extending flight times, allowing drones to operate efficiently in challenging environments. The risk of thermal runaway is a significant concern, especially in high-discharge scenarios. Therefore, selecting a cell with robust thermal management capabilities is essential. The VTC6A's design mitigates these risks, ensuring reliable performance under various operational conditions. The ability to maintain stable temperatures during prolonged use is critical for mission success, particularly in applications requiring long endurance and high reliability.
Why this Cell
The Murata VTC6A cell is an excellent choice for EVTOL applications due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge of 40 A, it is well-suited for high-demand scenarios, ensuring that UAVs can perform effectively without overheating. Its volumetric energy density of 578 Wh/l is among the highest in the database, providing the necessary power for extended missions. The cell's lightweight design, with a gravimetric energy density of 199 Wh/kg, supports the development of lightweight drone battery packs, crucial for improving UAV mission endurance. Additionally, the standard charge rate of 4.5 A allows for quick recharging, making it ideal for time-sensitive operations.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a vital role in optimising the selection of the Murata VTC6A cell for EVTOL applications. By modelling load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can predict how the cell will perform under various conditions. This approach allows for accurate assessments of heat generation and energy availability, ensuring that the selected cell meets the specific demands of the mission. For instance, simulating different flight scenarios can reveal how the cell behaves during high discharge rates, helping to prevent overheating and ensuring safe operation. Furthermore, these simulations enable engineers to refine battery thermal management strategies, enhancing overall UAV performance and reliability.
