TerraE 20P Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Explore the TerraE 20P cell for UAV applications, addressing weight vs power trade-offs in battery design for optimal performance.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 18650 form factor for versatile applications.
Nominal capacity of 7.2 Wh and 2.0 Ah for reliable energy delivery.
Top-quartile volumetric power density of 5,918 W/l for high performance.
Gravimetric energy density of 160 Wh/kg for lightweight designs.
Maximum continuous discharge of 30 A for demanding UAV operations.
About the Cell
The TerraE 20P cell features a cylindrical 18650 form factor, making it ideal for various UAV applications. With a nominal capacity of 7.2 Wh and 2.0 Ah, it delivers reliable energy for extended flight times. The cell boasts a volumetric energy density of 394 Wh/l, which is around the median, ensuring efficient use of space in battery packs. Its gravimetric energy density of 160 Wh/kg is also around the median, providing a good balance between weight and energy storage. Furthermore, the cell's volumetric power density of 5,918 W/l places it in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 2,029 W/l, making it suitable for high-performance applications. The maximum continuous discharge rate of 30 A, which is above the median of 30 A, allows for robust performance under demanding conditions, ensuring that UAVs can operate effectively even during peak loads.
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 achieve optimal flight performance. The TerraE 20P cell addresses this challenge by providing a high energy density while maintaining a lightweight profile. This is essential for applications such as long endurance drone batteries and heavy lift drone batteries, where every gram counts. The ability to deliver high power outputs without overheating is vital, especially in extreme environments where thermal management becomes a concern. Additionally, the cell's specifications allow for accurate predictions of state of charge (SoC), which is critical for mission planning and ensuring reliable operation.
Why this Cell
The TerraE 20P cell is an excellent choice for UAV applications due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge rate of 30 A, it is positioned in the top-quartile compared to the median of 30 A, allowing for high performance during demanding flight scenarios. The cell's volumetric energy density of 394 Wh/l is around the median, ensuring efficient use of space in battery packs. This is particularly important in UAV battery pack design, where weight savings can lead to improved flight times. Furthermore, the gravimetric energy density of 160 Wh/kg provides a lightweight solution for drone battery cell selection, making it suitable for applications that require long endurance and high power outputs. The combination of these factors makes the TerraE 20P cell a strong candidate for custom UAV battery packs.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a critical role in optimising battery selection for UAV applications. By modelling load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can accurately predict how the TerraE 20P cell will perform under various conditions. This approach allows for the identification of the best cell for specific mission profiles, 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 essential for preventing overheating and ensuring safety. Additionally, accurate modelling of usable energy helps in planning missions effectively, allowing operators to make informed decisions about battery usage and extending drone flight time. Overall, simulation enhances the design workflow by providing insights that lead to better battery thermal management and improved UAV mission endurance.
