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Samsung 40T3 Drones Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.

Explore the Samsung 40T3 cell for drones, optimising weight and power for enhanced performance and efficiency in UAV battery pack design.

Value Propositions

  • Cylindrical 21700 form factor for efficient space utilisation.

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

  • Top-quartile volumetric energy density of 579 Wh/l for compact designs.

  • Maximum continuous discharge of 50 A, ensuring robust performance.

  • Gravimetric power density of 2,571 W/kg, ideal for high-demand applications.

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About the Cell

The Samsung 40T3 cell features a cylindrical 21700 form factor, optimising space and weight for drone applications. With a nominal capacity of 14.4 Wh and 4.0 Ah, it provides a reliable energy supply for various UAV missions. Its volumetric energy density of 579 Wh/l places it in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 541.67 Wh/l, allowing for compact battery designs without sacrificing performance. The cell also boasts a maximum continuous discharge of 50 A, which is significantly above the median of 30 A, making it suitable for high-demand applications. Additionally, the gravimetric power density of 2,571 W/kg is advantageous for applications requiring brisk current draws, being well above the median of 750 W/kg.

Application Challenges

In the realm of drones, the challenge of balancing weight and power in battery pack design is critical. The Samsung 40T3 cell addresses this challenge effectively. Drones require lightweight battery solutions to maximise flight time while ensuring sufficient power for various operations. The need for high energy density is paramount, especially in applications like long endurance missions or heavy-lift operations. The Samsung 40T3's impressive volumetric energy density allows for a compact design, which is essential for UAVs that need to optimise payload capacity without compromising performance. Furthermore, the ability to deliver high discharge rates is crucial for maintaining operational efficiency in dynamic flight conditions, making the selection of the right cell vital for mission success.

Why this Cell

The Samsung 40T3 cell is an excellent choice for drone applications due to its high energy density and robust performance metrics. With a volumetric energy density of 579 Wh/l, it stands out in the market, being in the top-quartile compared to the median of 541.67 Wh/l. This characteristic allows for lightweight drone battery packs that do not compromise on power. The maximum continuous discharge of 50 A ensures that the cell can handle demanding applications, which is crucial for UAVs that require reliable performance under various conditions. Additionally, the gravimetric power density of 2,571 W/kg supports high discharge rates, making it ideal for applications that demand quick bursts of power, such as take-offs and rapid manoeuvres.

How Model-Based Design Helps

Simulation and model-based design play a pivotal role in optimising battery selection for drone applications. By modelling load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can accurately predict how the Samsung 40T3 cell will perform under different operational scenarios. This approach allows for the identification of the best cell for specific missions, ensuring that the selected battery can deliver the required thrust and energy throughout the flight envelope. For instance, simulations can help in understanding the thermal rise during high discharge scenarios, which is critical for preventing overheating and ensuring safety. By leveraging cell-specific data, designers can make informed decisions that enhance UAV performance and reliability, ultimately leading to improved mission outcomes.

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