Intelligent Energy
Modular fuel-cell technology enables longer drone flights
The lightweight 650W fuel-cell power module (FCPM; photo) has been specifically designed for the commercial drone market and offers considerably longer flight time when compared to traditional batteries. Flight time is one of the key pain points for commercial drone operations. Key benefits of the 650W FCPM include increased productivity, less downtime owing to quick refueling and increased payload capability. The FCPM can be used as a standalone product, or combined with another module to provide up to 1.3 kW of power. The FCC-compliant product is commercially available and is suitable for a variety of unmanned aerial vehicles, including multi-rotor and fixed-wing. The module runs on hydrogen and ambient air to produce clean power in a simple, cost effective, robust and lightweight package. It can be integrated into UAV platforms without compromising payload, according to the manufacturer. — Intelligent Energy Ltd., Leicestershire, U.K.