The role of explosion-proof fans in energy storage systems

Learn how CFD-based methodology can assist with the design of BESS explosion prevention systems to meet NFPA 855/69 requirements for explosion control.

By proactively addressing safety concerns, we can build trust in BESS technology and facilitate its ongoing growth and adoption. This article explores the essential elements of BESS safety, with a focus on fire and explosion risks, relevant regulations and standards, and strategies for prevention and mitigation.

Typically, the most cost-effective option in terms of installation and maintenance, IEP Technologies’ Passive Protection devices include explosion relief vent panels that open in the event of an explosion, relieving the pressure within the BESS unit and directing the pressure and flame to a safe area.

Scientists at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory developed this patent-pending deflagration prevention system for cabinet-style battery enclosures. Intellivent is designed to intelligently open cabinet doors to vent the cabinet interior at the first sign of explosion risk.

This work developed and analyzed a design methodology for Powin Stack™ 360 enclosures to satisfy the requirements for explosion prevention per NFPA 855. Powin Stack™ 360 enclosures are lithium-ion-based stationary energy storage systems (ESS).

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6 FAQs about [The role of explosion-proof fans in energy storage systems]

Can a standard exhaust ventilation method be used to design an explosion prevention system?

This arrangement makes it difficult to use a standard exhaust ventilation methodology to design an explosion prevention system. An innovative approach is used to purge the battery gas from individual Powin Stacks™ and from the main enclosure during a thermal runaway event.

Does the explosion prevention system work with other fire protection features?

The explosion prevention system functionality presented in this work is limited to removing flammable battery gas generated due to the non-flaring decomposition of batteries and does not consider its interactions with other fire protection features. 1. Introduction

How do I design an explosion prevention system for an ESS?

The critical challenge in designing an explosion prevention system for a ESS is to quantify the source term that can describe the release of battery gas during a thermal runaway event.

Can CFD be used to design an explosion prevention system?

CFD methodology can be extended to design an explosion prevention system for any ESS enclosure. Results can also provide the controlled release rate of flammable and toxic materials which is useful information for first responders and to assess environmental impacts.

Are battery storage systems causing fires & explosions?

Unfortunately, a small but significant fraction of these systems has experienced field failures resulting in both fires and explosions. A comprehensive review of these issues has been published in the EPRI Battery Storage Fire Safety Roadmap (report 3002022540 ), highlighting the need for specific efforts around explosion hazard mitigation.

Can commercial energy storage systems cause explosions?

It is notable that all examples plotted in Figure 5 lie well above the partial volume deflagration band, indicating that energy densities in commercial energy storage systems are sufficiently high to gener- ate explosions in the event of thermal runaway failure.

The role of explosion-proof fans in energy storage systems