Concern of 280Ah cell safety issue
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are increasingly being used in commercial environments due to their ability to balance power sources and keep energy flowing seamlessly to customers. However, the use of 280Ah cells in these systems can raise several safety concerns. Here are some key points to consider:
1. Thermal Runaway:
Lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly used in BESS, can experience a phenomenon known as "thermal runaway" This can be caused by physical damage to a battery cell, degradation due to extreme temperatures, ageing, or poor battery maintenance. Thermal runaway can lead to the release of very hot flammable, toxic gases. In large storage systems, failure of one lithium cell can cascade to include hundreds of individual cells.
2. Explosions and Fires: The gases released during thermal runaway can result in an explosion or a very difficult to extinguish fire. These fires are not similar to other industrial fires and require specific planning.
3. Lack of Standards: Although standards like the National Fire Protection Association 855 (NFPA 855) have been published and continue to be refined, there are fewer standards and forms of guidance regarding Energy Storage Systems compared to other industries. This makes it important to work with risk engineering organizations to develop safe processes and risk assessments for your facility.
4. Large Battery Capacity: The increase in battery capacity can lead to the deterioration of the heat dissipation
performance of the battery itself. This can increase the risk of thermal runaway and other safety issues.
In conclusion, while BESS offer numerous advantages, it's essential to understand and mitigate the potential safety risks associated with their use. Ongoing research and development in this field aim to improve the safety and reliability of these systems..