Can batteries power an airplane?
Batteries power everything from your cell phone to equipment on the International Space Station!
The X-57 uses rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.
Lithium-ion Batteries
When batteries are charged, electrical energy is converted to stored chemical energy. When a circuit is completed, the electrical energy is released for use, and the battery loses charge.
X-57 Setup
X-57 Batteries are:
- Commercial lithium-ion, in two 400 pound packs
- Placed inside custom-designed battery packs
- Located in the cabin
- Supplies 23 kilowatt hours of energy
- Extensively tested for safety, energy usage and weight
Testing
Successful Battery Test
The battery can power the aircraft for the entire flight without overheating to unsafe levels.
Contained Thermal Runaway
Unsuccessful Battery Test
Thermal runaway can happen if a battery overheats, and spreads to other cells, sometimes leading to battery fires.
Thermal Runaway