Fire protection level classification of energy storage batteries

Why is it important to protect battery energy storage systems from fire?

Therefore, it is first of all necessary to protect the storage systems from an external fire event in order to prevent cell breakdown processes initiated due to external combustion heat. First and foremost, every litium-ion battery energy storage poses an electrical fire risk.

How to protect a battery system from a fire?

Battery systems, modules and cells must be protected against external (electrical) fires. Possible measures: Fire alarm system with automatic extinguishing system for electrical risks. The extinguishing agent should ensure zero residue to the protection of the installation.

How can a marine battery management system reduce fire risk?

Provision of suitable compartmentation around the battery packs to limit the spread of any fire, this is probably much simpler in marine applications. Suitable Battery Management Systems linked to fire and gas detection systems to enable fast detection to allow for activation of fire protection systems and evacuation of passengers where applicable.

Which fire protection solutions do you need for your energy storage system?

The relevant fire protection solutions for this application are the ones that are stand-alone, installed inside the Energy Storage System, are complete with detection and extinguishing, are resilient and have minimum maintenance requirements.

Is battery energy storage a fire risk?

First and foremost, every litium-ion battery energy storage poses an electrical fire risk. Statistics (GDV) show that in around 25% of all cases, electrical fires are the cause of major losses and the main cause of fires in industrial companies.

What is a lithium-ion battery energy storage system?

Currently ESS’s are available on the market with battery capacities in a range between 5 – 500 kWh and in very large applications with a capacity of several thousand kWh (see table 5). Because of the high energy stored, Lithium-Ion battery energy storage systems are an application with a clear need for comprehensive fire protection.