Tenpower 15SG Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Explore the Tenpower 15SG cell for UAV applications, addressing weight vs power trade-offs for optimal drone performance and endurance.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 18650 form factor for compact design.
Nominal capacity of 5.55 Wh and 1.5 Ah for efficient energy storage.
Top-quartile volumetric power density of 6257 W/l for high performance.
Gravimetric energy density of 132 Wh/kg, supporting lightweight designs.
Maximum continuous discharge of 30 A for demanding applications.

About the Cell
The Tenpower 15SG cell features a cylindrical 18650 form factor, making it ideal for UAV applications. With a nominal capacity of 5.55 Wh and 1.5 Ah, it provides efficient energy storage for various drone operations. The cell boasts a volumetric energy density of 313 Wh/l, which is around the median for similar cells, ensuring a compact design that does not compromise on performance. Additionally, its gravimetric energy density of 132 Wh/kg positions it well within the market, providing a good balance between weight and energy storage. The power densities are impressive, with a volumetric power density of 6257 W/l, placing it in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 2029 W/l, making it suitable for high-demand applications. Furthermore, the maximum continuous discharge rate of 30 A allows for robust performance in critical scenarios, ensuring that the cell can handle the high current draws typical in UAV operations.
Application Challenges
In the context of EVTOL and the weight vs power trade-off in pack design, selecting the right battery cell is crucial. UAVs require a careful balance between weight and power to maximise flight time and efficiency. The Tenpower 15SG cell addresses these challenges effectively. With its nominal capacity and high power density, it allows for longer endurance flights, which is essential for applications such as surveillance, delivery, and emergency response. The challenge lies in ensuring that the battery can deliver the necessary power without adding excessive weight, which could hinder flight performance. The ability to optimise battery design through simulation and modelling is vital in achieving the desired balance, ensuring that UAVs can operate efficiently in various environments.
Why this Cell
The Tenpower 15SG cell is an excellent choice for UAV applications due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge rate of 30 A, it is well-suited for high-demand scenarios, ensuring that drones can perform effectively during critical missions. The cell's volumetric energy density of 313 Wh/l is around the median for similar cells, allowing for compact battery designs that do not compromise on energy storage. Moreover, its gravimetric energy density of 132 Wh/kg supports lightweight drone designs, which is essential for enhancing flight time. This combination of high energy and power density makes the 15SG a top contender for UAV battery optimisation, addressing the weight vs power trade-off effectively.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in optimising battery selection for UAVs. By simulating load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can predict how the Tenpower 15SG cell will perform under various conditions. This approach allows for accurate modelling of heat generation and energy usage, enabling the selection of the most suitable cell for specific missions. For instance, understanding the thermal rise during high discharge scenarios helps prevent overheating, ensuring safe operation. Additionally, simulations can assist in predicting the usable energy across different flight profiles, which is vital for mission planning. By leveraging these advanced modelling techniques, UAV manufacturers can make informed decisions, ultimately leading to enhanced performance and reliability in the field.


