Battery energy storage box automatic fire extinguishing

Are lithium-ion batteries safe in outdoor enclosures?

As demand for electrical energy storage systems (ESS) has expanded, safety has become a critical concern. This article examines lithium-ion battery ESS housed in outdoor enclosures, which represent the most common configuration for these systems.

What is an energy storage system (ESS) enclosure?

An energy storage system (ESS) enclosure typically comprises multiple racks, each containing several modules (Figure 1). These modules consist of numerous lithium-ion (Li-ion) cells, which function as rechargeable batteries designed to store and discharge electrical energy.

How long should a LFP battery be separated from a combustible object?

For LFP batteries with sprinkler protection, the minimum separation is 0.9 m (3 ft.) from non-combustible objects and 1.5 m (5 ft.) from combustible objects. The discharge duration must be at least 90 minutes.

Can a Li-ion battery cause a fire?

Thermal runaway, a process involving a series of exothermic reactions within a Li-ion battery, can trigger a fire. Thermal runaway can occur when a Li-ion battery overheats due to various factors such as internal short circuits, mechanical damage, external heating, overvoltage during charging, or failure of the battery management system.