Samsung 50S EVTOL Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Explore the Samsung 50S cell for EVTOL applications, addressing weight vs power trade-offs in UAV battery design for optimal performance.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor for efficient space utilisation.
Nominal capacity of 18.0 Wh and 5.0 Ah for reliable energy supply.
Top-quartile volumetric power density of 6467 W/l for high current demands.
Gravimetric energy density of 250 Wh/kg, ensuring lightweight battery solutions.
Maximum continuous discharge of 45 A, suitable for demanding UAV applications.
About the Cell
The Samsung 50S cell features a cylindrical 21700 form factor, optimising space in UAV battery packs. With a nominal capacity of 18.0 Wh and 5.0 Ah, it provides a reliable energy source for various applications. The cell boasts a volumetric energy density of 718 Wh/l, which is significantly above the database median of 541.67 Wh/l, making it an excellent choice for high energy density drone batteries. Additionally, its gravimetric energy density of 250 Wh/kg is also above the median, ensuring that it meets the needs of lightweight drone battery packs. The cell's volumetric power density of 6467 W/l places it in the top-quartile, allowing for brisk current draws, which is crucial for UAV battery optimisation. Furthermore, with a maximum continuous discharge of 45 A, this cell is well-suited for high discharge rate UAV batteries, ensuring reliable performance under demanding conditions.
Application Challenges
In the context of EVTOL applications, the weight versus power trade-off is critical for effective pack design. UAVs require batteries that not only provide sufficient energy for extended flight times but also maintain a lightweight profile to enhance overall efficiency. The Samsung 50S cell addresses these challenges by offering a high energy density, which allows for longer endurance without significantly increasing weight. This is particularly important in scenarios where drones must operate in extreme environments or carry heavy payloads. The ability to select the right battery cell is paramount in achieving optimal UAV performance, especially when considering factors such as battery thermal management and powertrain efficiency.
Why this Cell
The Samsung 50S cell is an ideal choice for UAV applications due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge rate of 45 A, it is well within the top-quartile compared to the database median of 30 A, ensuring that it can handle high current demands during flight. Its volumetric energy density of 718 Wh/l is significantly above the median, providing a lightweight solution that does not compromise on energy supply. This makes it particularly suitable for long endurance drone batteries, where every gram counts. Additionally, the cell's gravimetric power density of 2250 W/kg allows for efficient energy delivery, making it a strong candidate for custom UAV battery packs.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in optimising battery selection for UAV applications. By modelling load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can accurately predict how the Samsung 50S cell will perform under various conditions. This approach allows for the identification of the best battery configuration that balances weight and power, ensuring that the UAV can achieve its mission objectives without risking battery overheating or failure. For instance, simulations can help determine the optimal charge and discharge rates, enabling real-time decision-making during flight. This predictive capability is essential for ensuring reliability in mission-critical scenarios, particularly in defence or emergency applications.
