BATTERY ENERGY STORAGE

Lithium-Ion Batteries: Maximize Performance and Minimize Safety Hazards

Justin Pratt
By Justin Pratt
Alamon Electrical Supervisor

Lithium-ion batteries offer numerous advantages for energy storage, including high energy density, efficiency, lifespan and affordability. Fully tapping into their potential requires proper handling to maximize performance and minimize safety hazards.  In this article, we’ll cover the risks:

  • Temperature
  • Mechanical
  • Electrical
  • Chemical

We’ll also outline the importance of mitigation strategies:

  • High-Quality Materials and Design
  • Battery Management Systems (BMS)
  • Thermal Management Systems
  • Safety Venting
Alamon Energy Services: Lithium-ion Batteries

Strictly adhering to safety guidelines and employing effective risk mitigation strategies are essential when using Lithium-ion batteries for Battery Energy Storage Systems.

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LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES

Understand the Risks

Temperature Risks

Effective HVAC systems and temperature management are essential for Lithium-ion batteries. Charging temperature limits for Li-ion are stricter than operating limits, and charging should be performed between 5 to 45 °C (41 to 113 °F). Charging at temperatures above this range degrades battery performance.

Thermal runaway is a critical safety concern for Lithium-ion batteries. It occurs when the heat generated inside the battery exceeds the heat that is dissipated, leading to an uncontrollable increase in temperature. This can result in battery failure and potential hazards. Causes of thermal runaway include internal short circuits, overcharging, physical damage and high current discharge.

The elevated temperatures resulting from thermal discharge can trigger the decomposition of battery components, release of flammable gases, and potentially fire and explosion.

Extremely low temperatures carry risks also. It is important not to charge Lithium-ion batteries at temperatures below 0 °C (32 °F) because electrochemical reactions are slower. Increased internal resistance can cause higher heat generation during charging and discharging. Low-temperature charging also increases the risk of lithium plating on the anode during charging, which can lead to short circuits and thermal runaway.

Mechanical Risks

Lithium-ion batteries contain flammable electrolytes. If the battery is damaged or experiences a fault, it can ignite or explode. Some common triggers include mechanical damage like punctures or crushing, and manufacturing defects.
Lithium-ion Battery Risks

Electrical Risks

Overcharging of Lithium-ion batteries can lead to the breakdown of electrolyte components, increase in internal pressure and eventual thermal runaway. Over-discharging can cause the copper current collector to dissolve, leading to internal short circuits.

Chemical Risks

The electrolyte in Lithium-ion batteries is typically a lithium salt in an organic solvent, which can be toxic and corrosive. In case of leakage, it can pose health and environmental hazards.

LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES

Effective Mitigation Strategies

High Quality Materials and Design

Reducing Lithium-ion battery risks starts with first choosing high-quality materials and employing robust design practices that minimize hazards related to mechanical damage and manufacturing defects.

Battery Management Systems (BMS)

A BMS monitors and controls the operation of Lithium-ion batteries, ensuring they operate within safe limits. Its key functions are to:

  • Monitor temperature, voltage and current
  • Balance cell voltages to prevent overcharging and over-discharging
  • Provide safety cutoffs in case of anomalies

Thermal Management Systems

Given the importance of controlling operation and charging temperature for Li-ion batteries, thermal management plays a big role in the safe operation of Battery Energy Storage Systems. Thermal management methods include:

  • Active cooling systems (liquid or air cooling)
  • Passive cooling strategies (thermal conduction materials)
  • Insulation to prevent heat transfer between battery cells

Safety Venting

Lithium-ion batteries are often equipped with venting mechanisms to release internal pressure safely in case of failure, reducing the risk of explosion.

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LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES

Summary

Battery Energy Storage Systems

Industry Standards and Regulations

It may seem obvious, but you can never overstate that performing regular inspections and strictly adhering to industry standards and regulations are essential to the safe and reliable operation of all Battery Energy Storage Systems.

A thorough understanding of the risks associated with Lithium-ion batteries, combined with effective mitigation strategies will help you get the most out of them while minimizing the potential safety hazards.

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