Reliance RS40 Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Discover the Reliance RS40 cell, optimised for UAV applications, addressing weight vs power challenges for enhanced drone performance.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor for compact design.
Nominal capacity of 14.4 Wh and 4.0 Ah for reliable energy supply.
Top-quartile volumetric energy density of 572 Wh/l for efficient space use.
Maximum continuous discharge of 70.0 A, ideal for high-demand applications.
Gravimetric power density of 3761 W/kg, supporting rapid energy delivery.
About the Cell
The Reliance RS40 cell features a cylindrical 21700 form factor, providing a nominal capacity of 14.4 Wh and 4.0 Ah. With a volumetric energy density of 572 Wh/l, it ranks in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 542 Wh/l, making it an excellent choice for applications requiring efficient space utilisation. The gravimetric energy density is 215 Wh/kg, which is around the median of 210 Wh/kg, ensuring a balance between weight and energy storage. The cell also boasts a maximum continuous discharge of 70.0 A, which is significantly above the median of 30 A, allowing for high power demands typical in UAV operations. Additionally, the volumetric power density of 10008 W/l is among the highest in the database, enhancing its suitability for dynamic applications like drones. This combination of features makes the RS40 a compelling option for those seeking high-performance lithium-ion cells for drones.
Application Challenges
In the EVTOL sector, the challenge of balancing weight and power in battery pack design is critical. The RS40 cell addresses this by providing a high energy density, which is essential for extending flight times and improving UAV mission endurance. As drones are often required to operate in extreme environments, the ability to prevent overheating and ensure safe battery operation is paramount. The weight vs power trade-off is crucial; lighter batteries can enhance flight time, but they must also deliver sufficient power to meet operational demands. The RS40's specifications make it well-suited for these challenges, allowing designers to optimise UAV battery pack design without compromising performance.
Why this Cell
The Reliance RS40 cell is particularly advantageous for EVTOL applications due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge of 70.0 A, it is positioned in the top-quartile compared to the median of 30 A, ensuring that it can handle high discharge rates typical in demanding UAV operations. Furthermore, its volumetric energy density of 572 Wh/l is significantly higher than the median of 542 Wh/l, allowing for more energy storage in a compact form. This is crucial for applications where every gram counts, such as in drone battery design. The gravimetric power density of 3761 W/kg also supports rapid energy delivery, making it ideal for high-energy demands during flight. These metrics collectively contribute to an optimal weight vs power balance, making the RS40 an excellent choice for custom UAV battery packs.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a vital role in optimising the selection of battery cells for UAV applications. By modelling load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can predict how the Reliance RS40 cell will perform under various conditions. For instance, simulating the thermal rise during high discharge scenarios helps in understanding the cell's limits and ensures that it operates within safe parameters. Additionally, voltage sag can be accurately predicted, allowing for better planning of energy use throughout a mission. This approach not only aids in selecting the right cell but also enhances the overall design of drone battery packs, ensuring that the chosen cell meets the specific demands of the application while maximising efficiency and safety.
