Samsung 40T Safety and risk management - particularly around overheating and thermal runaway during flight.
Explore the Samsung 40T cell for EVTOL applications, designed for safety and risk management against overheating and thermal runaway during flight.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor with a nominal capacity of 14.4 Wh.
Top-quartile volumetric energy density of 579 Wh/l, +11% vs database median.
Gravimetric power density of 2,314 W/kg, +64% vs database median.
Maximum continuous discharge of 45 A, top-quartile vs median 30 A.
Standard charge current of 2 A, around median vs 2.75 A.

About the Cell
The Samsung 40T cell is a cylindrical 21700 battery with a nominal capacity of 14.4 Wh and a nominal charge capacity of 4.0 Ah. With a volumetric energy density of 579 Wh/l, it ranks in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 541.67 Wh/l. The gravimetric energy density stands at 205.714 Wh/kg, which is around the median of 210 Wh/kg. This cell also boasts a volumetric power density of 6,516 W/l, which is among the highest in the database, and a gravimetric power density of 2,314 W/kg, which is +64% vs the median of 750 W/kg. The maximum continuous discharge current is 45 A, which is top-quartile compared to the median of 30 A, making it suitable for high-demand applications.
Application Challenges
In the EVTOL sector, safety and risk management are paramount, particularly concerning overheating and thermal runaway during flight. The Samsung 40T cell's high energy density and robust discharge capabilities are critical in ensuring that drones can operate safely under demanding conditions. With a maximum continuous discharge of 45 A, the cell can handle the high power requirements of UAVs, reducing the risk of overheating. The ability to maintain performance in extreme environments is essential for mission success, as any failure could lead to catastrophic results.
Why this Cell
The Samsung 40T cell is an excellent choice for EVTOL applications due to its impressive specifications. With a volumetric energy density of 579 Wh/l, it allows for longer flight times, which is crucial for missions requiring extended endurance. The maximum continuous discharge rate of 45 A ensures that the cell can deliver the necessary power without overheating, addressing the core challenge of thermal management. Compared to the median values, this cell's performance metrics position it as a reliable option for UAV battery pack design, ensuring safety and efficiency during flight.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a vital role in optimising the performance of the Samsung 40T cell for EVTOL applications. By modelling load profiles and thermal behaviour, engineers can predict how the cell will perform under various conditions, including high discharge rates and temperature fluctuations. This predictive capability allows for the selection of the most suitable cells for specific missions, ensuring that the drones can operate safely without the risk of thermal runaway. The ability to simulate energy usage and thermal rise helps in making informed decisions about battery pack design, ultimately leading to improved UAV performance and mission reliability.


