Does a lithium-ion energy storage unit need explosion control?

To address the safety issues associated with lithium-ion energy storage, NFPA 855 and several other fire codes require any BESS the size of a small ISO container or larger to be provided with some form of explosion control. This includes walk-in units, cabinet style BESS and buildings.

What are the different types of explosion protection systems?

Although Passive Protection (explosion venting) is the most common protection method, Active Explosion Protection Systems are available which incorporate detection, control and monitoring, and suppression to instantaneously quench the incipient explosion before it reaches a dangerous state.

How to design a Bess explosion prevention system?

The critical challenge in designing an explosion prevention system for a BESS is to quantify the source term that can describe the release of battery gas during a thermal runaway event. Hence, full-scale fire test data such as from UL 9540A testing are important inputs for the gas release model.

How do you protect a battery energy storage system?

Three protection strategies include deploying explosion protection, suppression systems, and detection systems. 2. Explosion vent panels are installed on the top of battery energy storage system shipping containers to safely direct an explosion upward, away from people and property. Courtesy: Fike Corp. Explosion Protection.

What is a battery energy storage system?

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) represent a significant component supporting the shift towards a more sustainable and green energy future for the planet. BESS units can be employed in a variety of situations, ranging from temporary, standby and off-grid applications to larger, fixed installations.

What causes fire & explosion inside a Bess enclosure?

The leading cause of fire and explosion inside a BESS enclosures is the release and ignition of combustible vapors from an overheating battery.