Electric aircraft engine developer magniX has launched the Samson battery range for aviation applications.
Samson batteries are suitable for use in battery-electric and hybrid-electric aircraft and are designed for ease of integration. They are also suitable for powering helicopters and eVTOLs, as well as for use in applications beyond aerospace, such as powering marine craft.
Samson batteries will be certifiable under aviation regulations, while combining with magniX’s motors to provide an optimized and integrated electric powertrain for aerospace.
Key features of the first battery in the range, Samson300 includes an energy density of 300 Watt hours per kilogram (Wh/kg), a battery cycle life of over 1,000 full-depth discharge cycles, cell level protections from thermal runaway and the capability to store batteries for long periods at zero charge.
The batteries also enable fast aircraft turnaround time, thanks to on-ground cooling during charging, and the option for passive cooling in flight, which also helps to minimize weight and complexity in the aircraft.
In addition, integrated power electronics enable better power management supply to the propulsion system and a modular architecture facilitates power for larger aircraft.
Ben Loxton, vice president of energy storage systems and the NASA Electric Powertrain Flight Demonstration (EPFD) Program at magniX said, “The Samson batteries represent a breakthrough for magniX and electric aviation.
“With unrivalled energy density, cycle life, and safety features, magniX’s Samson batteries will help to unlock the tremendous potential of electric flight – enabling many eVTOLs and electric programs on the edge of viability to become viable.”
Reed Macdonald, CEO of magniX said, “We are thrilled to introduce this revolutionary battery technology to the world of electric aviation and beyond.
“magniX can now offer customers a fully integrated electric powertrain, and the roadmap to an energy density of 400Wh/kg or more is looking very promising.”
