TerraE 32P Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Discover the TerraE 32P cell for UAV applications, optimising weight and power for enhanced drone performance and endurance.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 18650 form factor for versatile integration.
Nominal capacity of 11.1 Wh and 3.0 Ah for reliable energy supply.
Top-quartile power density (+58% vs median 2,029 W/l) for brisk current draws.
Maximum continuous discharge of 30.0 A, ensuring high performance under load.
Gravimetric energy density of 231.25 Wh/kg, supporting lightweight designs.
About the Cell
The TerraE 32P cell is designed in a cylindrical 18650 form factor, providing a nominal capacity of 11.1 Wh and 3.0 Ah. With a volumetric energy density of 630 Wh/l, it stands out in the market, being in the top-quartile compared to the median of 542 Wh/l. The cell also boasts a gravimetric energy density of 231.25 Wh/kg, which is around the median, making it suitable for applications where weight is critical. Its volumetric power density of 6,296 W/l is among the highest in the database, allowing for efficient energy delivery during high-demand operations. The maximum continuous discharge rate of 30.0 A ensures that the cell can handle significant loads, making it ideal for UAV applications that require both power and endurance.
Application Challenges
In the EVTOL sector, the weight versus power trade-off is crucial for effective pack design. Selecting the right battery cell is essential to ensure that drones can achieve optimal flight times while maintaining safety and performance. The challenge lies in balancing the energy capacity needed for long missions against the weight that can limit flight efficiency. High energy density is vital for extending drone flight times, particularly in demanding environments. The TerraE 32P cell addresses these challenges with its impressive specifications, allowing for the design of lightweight drone battery packs that do not compromise on performance. This balance is critical for applications such as heavy-lift drones and long endurance missions, where every gram counts.
Why this Cell
The TerraE 32P cell is an excellent choice for UAV applications due to its high energy and power densities. With a maximum continuous discharge rate of 30.0 A, it is positioned in the top-quartile compared to the median of 30 A, ensuring that it can deliver the necessary power for demanding flight profiles. Additionally, its volumetric energy density of 630 Wh/l is among the highest available, enabling the design of lightweight battery packs that enhance drone endurance. This cell's performance characteristics make it ideal for applications where weight is a critical factor, allowing for extended flight times and improved mission success rates.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a pivotal role in optimising battery selection for UAV applications. By simulating load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can accurately predict how the TerraE 32P 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. For instance, modelling can reveal how the cell behaves under high discharge rates, helping to prevent overheating and ensuring safe operation. Furthermore, simulations can assist in predicting the state of charge (SoC) accurately, which is crucial for mission planning and reliability. Overall, this method reduces the risk of costly trial-and-error testing and enhances the confidence of operators in the performance of their UAVs.
