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Samsung 40T Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.

Explore the Samsung 40T cell for UAV applications, optimising weight and power for enhanced drone performance and endurance.

Value Propositions

  • Cylindrical 21700 form factor for efficient integration.

  • Nominal capacity of 14.4 Wh and 4.0 Ah for reliable performance.

  • Top-quartile volumetric power density of 6516 W/l for high energy demands.

  • Gravimetric energy density of 206 Wh/kg, supporting lightweight designs.

  • Maximum continuous discharge of 45 A, ideal for demanding UAV applications.

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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 ranks among the highest in the database, offering a significant advantage for UAV battery pack design. Its gravimetric energy density of 206 Wh/kg is also competitive, ensuring lightweight solutions for drone applications. The cell's volumetric power density of 6516 W/l is in the top-quartile, enabling it to meet high energy demands efficiently. Additionally, the maximum continuous discharge rate of 45 A positions it well for applications requiring robust performance under load. This combination of features makes the Samsung 40T an excellent choice for UAV battery optimisation, particularly in scenarios where weight versus power trade-offs are critical. The standard charge current of 2.0 A and maximum continuous charge current of 6.0 A further enhance its usability in various applications, ensuring quick turnaround times for battery packs. Overall, the Samsung 40T cell is designed to meet the rigorous demands of modern drone technology, making it a preferred option for engineers and designers alike.

Application Challenges

In the realm of EVTOL and UAV applications, the weight versus power trade-off is a crucial consideration. The challenge lies in selecting the right battery cell that maximises flight time while minimising weight. For instance, high energy density is essential for long endurance drone batteries, allowing for extended missions without the need for frequent recharges. The Samsung 40T cell's impressive volumetric energy density of 579 Wh/l supports this requirement, enabling the design of lightweight drone battery packs that do not compromise on performance. Furthermore, the ability to manage thermal performance is vital, as overheating can lead to safety issues and reduced battery life. The Samsung 40T's specifications ensure that it can handle demanding discharge rates, making it suitable for heavy lift drone batteries that require both power and efficiency. Engineers must also consider the implications of battery weight on flight time, as every gram counts in UAV design. By leveraging the capabilities of the Samsung 40T, designers can achieve a balanced approach to battery selection, ensuring that their UAVs can perform optimally in various environments, including extreme conditions.

Why this Cell

The Samsung 40T cell stands out in the UAV battery market due to its exceptional specifications that align perfectly with the challenges of weight versus power trade-offs. With a maximum continuous discharge rate of 45 A, it is positioned in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 30 A, allowing for robust performance during demanding flight scenarios. Additionally, its volumetric power density of 6516 W/l is among the highest, ensuring that UAVs can draw the necessary power without excessive weight. The gravimetric energy density of 206 Wh/kg also supports lightweight designs, making it an ideal choice for custom UAV battery packs. This cell's ability to deliver high energy output while maintaining a manageable weight is crucial for extending drone flight time, thereby improving mission endurance. Furthermore, the Samsung 40T's standard charge rate of 2.0 A allows for efficient recharging, which is vital for operational readiness in commercial UAV applications. Overall, the Samsung 40T cell is a strategic choice for engineers focused on optimising UAV performance while addressing the critical balance of weight and power.

How Model-Based Design Helps

Simulation and model-based design play a pivotal role in optimising the selection of battery cells like the Samsung 40T for UAV applications. By simulating load profiles, engineers can accurately predict how the cell will perform under various conditions, including different discharge rates and thermal environments. This capability is essential for understanding the internal temperature rise during operation, which directly impacts battery safety and performance. For instance, modelling the thermal behaviour of the Samsung 40T under maximum continuous discharge scenarios allows designers to identify potential overheating issues before they occur, ensuring that the battery operates within safe limits. Additionally, simulation can help in predicting voltage sag and usable energy across the entire flight envelope, enabling engineers to make informed decisions about mission feasibility based on battery state of charge (SoC) and environmental conditions. This predictive capability is crucial for UAV operators, as it allows for real-time go/no-go decision-making, enhancing mission reliability. Ultimately, the integration of simulation into the design process not only streamlines the selection of the right cell but also mitigates risks associated with battery performance, leading to safer and more efficient UAV operations.

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