Samsung 40T3 EVTOL Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Explore the Samsung 40T3 cell for EVTOL applications, addressing weight vs power trade-offs for optimal drone performance.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor for compact design.
Nominal capacity of 14.4 Wh and 4.0 Ah for reliable energy delivery.
Volumetric energy density of 579 Wh/l, top-quartile vs median.
Gravimetric power density of 2571 W/kg, +57% vs database median.
Maximum continuous discharge of 50 A, among the highest in database.
About the Cell
The Samsung 40T3 cell features a cylindrical 21700 form factor, optimised for EVTOL applications. With a nominal capacity of 14.4 Wh and 4.0 Ah, it delivers reliable energy for demanding drone operations. The cell boasts a volumetric energy density of 579 Wh/l, placing it in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 541.67 Wh/l. Additionally, its gravimetric energy density of 205.714 Wh/kg is around the median, ensuring a balanced weight-to-energy ratio. The impressive volumetric power density of 7240.55 W/l is among the highest in the database, providing robust performance during high-demand scenarios. Furthermore, the maximum continuous discharge rate of 50 A positions it as a strong contender for applications requiring high current draws.
Application Challenges
In the context of EVTOL and the weight vs power trade-off in pack design, selecting the right battery cell is crucial. Drones require a careful balance between weight and power to maximise flight time and efficiency. The Samsung 40T3 cell addresses these challenges by offering high energy density and power capabilities, essential for long endurance missions. The ability to deliver substantial energy while maintaining a lightweight profile is vital for UAVs, especially in applications such as heavy-lift operations or fixed-wing UAV designs. The challenge lies in ensuring that the battery can sustain high discharge rates without overheating, which is critical for mission success.
Why this Cell
The Samsung 40T3 cell is an excellent choice for EVTOL applications due to its high volumetric energy density of 579 Wh/l, which is top-quartile compared to the database median. This characteristic allows for more energy storage in a compact form, essential for weight-sensitive UAV designs. Additionally, the maximum continuous discharge rate of 50 A ensures that the cell can handle demanding power requirements without compromising safety or performance. With a gravimetric power density of 2571 W/kg, which is +57% vs the median, this cell supports efficient powertrain designs, making it ideal for applications that require both endurance and responsiveness.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a pivotal role in optimising battery selection for UAV applications. By modelling load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can predict how the Samsung 40T3 cell will perform under various conditions. This approach allows for accurate assessments of energy delivery and thermal management, ensuring that the cell can operate safely within its limits. For instance, simulating the thermal rise during high discharge scenarios helps in selecting cells that minimise overheating risks. Furthermore, understanding voltage sag and usable energy through simulations enables engineers to make informed decisions, ultimately leading to enhanced UAV performance and reliability.
