The recent battery explosion in the Madrid Metro has highlighted the need for a clear focus on lithium battery safety. NCPower shares its safety measures.
In a society increasingly aware of the need for sustainable mobility, lithium-ion batteries play an essential role. However, their use raises safety concerns, as evidenced recently by the incident on Line 2 of the Madrid Metro, in which the battery of an electric scooter exploded, causing a great shock to passengers and disruption to traffic for several hours. Fortunately, no one was injured, although the last carriage was destroyed.
While these events are rare, they are important reminders that battery safety must be a priority. NCPower, a leading Spanish manufacturer of lithium batteries for electric vehicles, is at the forefront of battery safety and clarifies the key aspects of this issue.
The trigger for a thermal runaway
Lithium-ion batteries are an essential power source in a variety of applications, from mobile phones to electric vehicles. Although safe in normal operation, certain conditions can trigger a potentially dangerous thermal runaway. These factors include environmental factors, mechanical factors, electrical overcharge, electrical over-discharge, internal and external short circuits, battery design and manufacture, and battery ageing.
The role of the electrolyte
Electrolyte, a fundamental part of the battery, is a catalyst for conducting electricity. However, it can also be flammable and react violently at high temperatures or a short circuit. Therefore, avoiding overheating is critical.
Charging the batteries
The battery charging process carries specific risks that must be considered. Unlike lead-acid batteries, lithium batteries do not require periodic charging. This means that they can remain inside the equipment during charging, making the process safer and more efficient.
But what is thermal runaway? It is a chain reaction of temperature rise in an overheated battery, which can be dangerous. If not properly controlled, this can result in combustion and possible explosion. To prevent situations that can trigger a thermal runaway, a reliable Battery Management System (BMS) is essential.
The role of BMS in battery safety
A Battery Management System, or BMS, is essential to monitor and prevent situations that can lead to thermal runaway. The BMS acts as the "brain" of the battery, monitoring the status of each cell, balancing charge and discharge and preventing dangerous situations, such as overcharging or deep discharge. In addition, it can disconnect the battery in case of overheating or detect abnormal conditions.
The manufacturer NCPower is an example of how battery safety is addressed. Its batteries are based on LifePo4 chemistry, which is known for its safety and stability. They are also equipped with heating and cooling systems for safe operation in extreme temperatures.
The NCPower control system
NCPower not only manufactures chemically safe batteries, but also implements advanced battery safety technology. Its NCPower System offers real-time remote monitoring to detect any malfunctions and take preventive measures in time. Safety is a priority, and this system ensures optimal performance.
Safety certifications - the additional guarantee
To ensure the safety of its batteries, NCPower seeks safety certifications, such as the R100.2 Certification. This type of certification requires rigorous safety testing to ensure that the batteries meet European standards necessary for safe operation on the road.
In short, lithium battery safety is an issue that involves rigorous control systems, chemical design, monitoring and certifications. Companies like NCPower are leading the way in the quest for safety in the world of electric mobility. Incidents are rare, but safety is essential, and these manufacturers are committed to ensuring the energy that powers the future is safe and reliable.
See original content here: What is the real risk of a lithium battery exploding?
