Performance Tests of a Developmental Lithium-ion Main Aircraft Battery

The Air Force Research Laboratory, Energy Storage and Thermal Sciences Branch conducted performance tests of a developmental 53 Ah prismatic lithium-ion main aircraft battery for military applications. Tests covered the temperature range from -60 °C to +75 °C and discharge currents from C/3 to 4/3 C appropriate to the application. A limited life cycle test using a mixed discharge profile at room temperature was also conducted and the effects of low and high temperature exposure on battery capacity were evaluated. Test results will be presented and implications for further development of large lithium-ion batteries for air vehicle applications are discussed.