Samsung 40T Drones Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Explore the Samsung 40T cell for drones, optimising weight and power for superior UAV performance and endurance in demanding applications.
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 power density of 6,516 W/l for high performance.
Gravimetric energy density of 206 Wh/kg, ensuring lightweight solutions.
Maximum continuous discharge of 45 A, ideal for demanding UAV applications.
About the Cell
The Samsung 40T 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 579 Wh/l, it stands out in the market, being around the median compared to other cells. The gravimetric energy density of 206 Wh/kg is also competitive, ensuring that this cell is suitable for applications where weight is critical. The volumetric power density of 6,516 W/l places it in the top-quartile of the database, making it an excellent choice for high-performance UAVs. Additionally, the maximum continuous discharge rate of 45 A allows for robust performance under demanding conditions, ensuring that the cell can handle the high power requirements typical in drone applications. This combination of features makes the Samsung 40T a strong candidate for drone battery design, particularly in scenarios where weight and power trade-offs are paramount.
Application Challenges
In the context of drones, the challenge of balancing weight and power in battery pack design is crucial. Drones require lightweight components to maximise flight time and efficiency, yet they also need sufficient power to perform tasks effectively. The Samsung 40T cell addresses these challenges by providing a high energy density, which translates to longer flight times without adding excessive weight. The ability to discharge at a maximum of 45 A ensures that drones can operate efficiently even under heavy loads or during demanding missions. This balance is essential for applications such as long endurance flights, heavy lift operations, and UAVs operating in extreme environments. The design of UAV battery packs must consider these factors to optimise performance and reliability, making the Samsung 40T an ideal choice for engineers focused on drone battery optimisation.
Why this Cell
The Samsung 40T cell is particularly well-suited for drone applications due to its impressive specifications. With a volumetric energy density of 579 Wh/l, it is around the median compared to other cells, ensuring that it provides a significant amount of energy without adding unnecessary weight. The gravimetric energy density of 206 Wh/kg is also competitive, making it a lightweight option for UAVs. Furthermore, the maximum continuous discharge rate of 45 A positions it in the top-quartile of performance, allowing for high power outputs when needed. This capability is crucial for applications requiring rapid acceleration or sustained high power, such as in heavy lift drone operations. The combination of these metrics makes the Samsung 40T an excellent choice for engineers who are choosing cells for UAVs, ensuring that they can meet the demands of modern drone technology while optimising for weight and power.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a critical role in optimising the selection of battery cells for drones. By simulating load profiles, engineers can predict how the Samsung 40T cell will perform under various conditions, including different discharge rates and temperatures. This allows for accurate modelling of thermal behaviour, voltage sag, and usable energy, ensuring that the selected cell meets the specific needs of the UAV. For instance, understanding the thermal rise during high discharge scenarios can help prevent overheating, which is a common challenge in drone battery design. Additionally, simulations can help in predicting the state of charge (SoC) accurately, which is vital for mission planning and ensuring reliability during operations. By leveraging these modelling techniques, engineers can make informed decisions that enhance drone performance and extend mission endurance, ultimately leading to more efficient and reliable UAV operations.
