Reliance RS40 Drones Fast charge of the batteries - how to charge the battery quickly without overheating the cells or causing lithium plating which could degrade the battery or cause it to catch fire.
Discover the Reliance RS40 cell for drones, designed for fast charging without overheating, ensuring safety and efficiency in UAV applications.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor for compact design.
Nominal capacity of 14.4 Wh and 4.0 Ah for reliable performance.
Top-quartile volumetric power density of 10,008 W/l for rapid energy delivery.
Gravimetric energy density of 215 Wh/kg, ideal for lightweight UAV applications.
Maximum continuous discharge of 70 A, supporting high power demands.
About the Cell
The Reliance RS40 cell features a cylindrical 21700 form factor, optimised for drone applications. With a nominal capacity of 14.4 Wh and 4.0 Ah, it provides reliable energy storage for various UAV missions. The cell boasts a volumetric energy density of 572 Wh/l, which is around the median of 542 Wh/l in the database, ensuring efficient space utilisation. Additionally, its gravimetric energy density of 215 Wh/kg is slightly above the median of 210 Wh/kg, making it suitable for lightweight drone battery packs. The volumetric power density of 10,008 W/l is among the highest in the database, significantly enhancing the cell's ability to deliver power quickly. Furthermore, the maximum continuous discharge rate of 70 A positions it in the top-quartile compared to the median of 30 A, allowing for high discharge rates essential for demanding drone operations. This combination of features makes the RS40 an excellent choice for UAV battery optimisation.
Application Challenges
In the context of drones, fast charging of batteries presents significant challenges. The primary concern is to charge the battery quickly without overheating the cells or causing lithium plating, which can degrade the battery's performance and safety. High discharge rates are often required for drone operations, especially in applications such as heavy lift or VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) missions. The RS40 cell's maximum continuous discharge of 70 A allows it to meet these demands effectively. However, managing thermal performance during rapid charging is crucial to prevent overheating. The RS40's design incorporates advanced thermal management features, ensuring that the cell remains within safe operating temperatures even under high load conditions. This is vital for maintaining the longevity and reliability of the battery pack in various environmental conditions, including extreme temperatures often encountered in drone operations.
Why this Cell
The Reliance RS40 cell is specifically designed to address the challenges of fast charging in drone applications. With a maximum continuous charge rate of 14 A, which is significantly above the median of 8 A in the database, it allows for rapid energy replenishment without compromising safety. The cell's volumetric power density of 10,008 W/l is among the highest in the database, facilitating quick energy delivery during critical flight phases. Additionally, its gravimetric energy density of 215 Wh/kg ensures that the battery pack remains lightweight, which is essential for extending drone flight time. The combination of these metrics makes the RS40 an ideal choice for UAV battery design, particularly in applications requiring high energy density and lightweight solutions. By selecting this cell, engineers can optimise UAV battery performance, ensuring that drones can operate efficiently and effectively in demanding environments.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in optimising the performance of the Reliance RS40 cell for drone applications. By simulating load profiles, engineers can predict how the cell will behave under various operational conditions, including rapid charging scenarios. This modelling allows for accurate predictions of thermal rise and voltage sag, which are critical factors in ensuring safe and efficient battery operation. For instance, by understanding the thermal behaviour of the RS40 during fast charging, engineers can implement effective thermal management strategies to prevent overheating. Additionally, simulation helps in determining the usable energy across the entire flight envelope, enabling engineers to make informed decisions about battery selection and configuration. This approach not only enhances the reliability of drone missions but also reduces the risk of mid-air failures, ensuring that UAVs can complete their tasks safely and efficiently.
