Guide to Battery Cabinets for Lithium-Ion Batteries
You should ensure all storage cabinets for lithium-ion batteries are rated for fires starting from inside the cabinet. Without this, the protection is inadequate. The cabinet must withstand an internal fire for at least 90 minutes; it must be tested and approved to SS-EN-1363-1 for internal fire.
Do you use lithium-ion batteries in your business? If so, it is crucial to store them safely. Proper storage provides better protection against thermal runaway, fire, and toxic gas emissions.
Your storage should maintain a constant temperature, guard against moisture, enable safe charging, and shield against mechanical damage. While regulations may not fully address the safety needs for lithium battery storage, insurance companies are increasingly recognizing its importance.
We're here to help you navigate the requirements for safe lithium-ion battery storage. Below are six essential considerations when purchasing storage solutions for lithium or lithium-ion batteries.
1. MAKE SURE YOUR STORAGE HAS PROTECTION AGAINST INTERNAL FIRE
Ordinary fire-rated cabinets are designed to withstand fires that start externally, but they won't withstand fires that originate from within lithium-ion batteries. This is a critical distinction to ensure your storage is safe. You should ensure all storage cabinets for lithium-ion batteries are rated for fires starting from inside the cabinet. Without this, the protection is inadequate. The cabinet must withstand an internal fire for at least 90 minutes; it must be tested and approved to SS-EN-1363-1 for internal fire.
2. ENSURE THAT YOUR CABINET HAS INTEGRAL VENTILATION
To prevent thermal runaway and subsequent fire risks, lithium-ion batteries must be stored and charged under the right conditions. Hot air should be continuously vented to avoid overheating. Integrated ventilation is essential for removing any heated air generated. Additionally, the gases produced from thermal runaway and lithium-ion fires are highly toxic.
3. CHARGE LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES SAFELY
If your battery energy storage cabinet will be used as a charging station, it should be explicitly built for this purpose, including all necessary safety measures from the outset. Adding charging facilities later can be more expensive and dangerous. A purpose-built lithium-ion cabinet includes high-specification features, such as metal-encased and grounded electrical outlets, with the socket strip ready for use and mounted on the rear wall of the cabinet.
For a Safe Battery Cabinet for Lithium / Lithium-Ion Batteries the 3 Points Below Should Also Be Met:
4. HAVE A PROPER ALARM
Lithium-ion battery-powered devices, such as bikes and tools, are often used during the day and charged at night, which is when most fires occur. Ensure your cabinet has a proper alarm system wired with electronic controls, including a potential-free alarm contact for building control. Different alarm modules can provide indications via an overall alarm system or SMS. A unique fire suppression system inhibits fire development, giving those nearby time to react and take action.
5. ENSURE THAT IT IS POSSIBLE TO EVACUATE THE CABINET
Place the cabinet near an exit so it can be easily moved outside in case of a fire. Purpose-built lithium-ion battery storage cabinets are heavy, around 500 kg, so ensure your cabinet has an integrated base to allow evacuation with a forklift. This is crucial both in case of a fire and if the cabinet needs to be relocated for other reasons. Without an integrated base, moving the cabinet would be extremely difficult.
6. CHECK THE FIRE PROTECTION IS TESTED
With the increasing availability of battery cabinets, some suppliers might be moving too fast, potentially compromising safety. Carefully check the certificates and how long the cabinet can withstand a fire. Ask suppliers for verification to ensure full protection. Request documentation and certificates of tests and approvals carried out to be confident in your purchase.
