Lithium-ion (li ion) batteries are the most commonly used power source for all things with a rechargeable battery. Having been with us since the s, li ion battery technology has steadily evolved from cell phones and laptops to electric vehicles (EVs) and utility-grade energy storage.
Lithium Storage Product Page
As with any technology, invariably there are associated risks. Li ion batteries are no exception. And as they permeate virtually every device requiring a rechargeable electric power source, these risks are becoming increasingly evident. The news and social media routinely report a dramatic fire or explosion resulting from a li-ion battery failure or thermal runaway event. While these events can be spectacular, in truth, li ion battery technology is largely safe and the dramatic incidents represent only a tiny fraction of the literally billions of li ion batteries currently in use.
While everyone should respect the risk posed by li ion batteries and treat them in a safe and responsible manner, it is businesses and companies that use multiple tools and equipment powered by li ion batteries that are often most at risk.
As this article will describe, the risk can be managed by paying careful attention to how the li ion batteries are stored.
When storing li ion batteries, the amount of risk is based on whether the batteries are actively being charged during short-term storage or non-charging batteries are simply being stored for a longer period. Regardless, there are several measures that can be taken to reduce the risks associated with li ion battery storage.
Manufacturer instructions: Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions on the best/safest way to store batteries and adhere to their guidance.
Storage Temperature Range: Batteries should be stored in a cool, dry place, ideally at room temperature. Extreme temperatures—i.e., low temperatures below -13° F (-25° C) or high temperatures above 149°F (65° C) –can degrade battery performance, potentially damage the battery, and increases the risk of battery failure leading to fire or explosion.
Sunlight exposure: It is best to keep stored batteries in a location where they are not exposed to direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can accelerate battery degradation and may cause internal overheating leading to failure, particularly if the battery is charging.
Secure the batteries: Store batteries such that they are not at risk of being dropped, falling, crushed, or punctured. Physical damage can lead to internal short circuits causing battery failure.
The company is the world’s best Lithium Storage supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.
Store batteries upright: Storing batteries upright helps:
Protect batteries from loose metal objects: Keep batteries away from loose metal objects, such as screws, nails, tools, etc. to prevent short circuits.
Maintain separation from other batteries/objects: Batteries and battery packs should never be stacked on top of each other or have items placed on top of them. Rather, batteries should be stored in a single layer or in properly designed racks that prevent them from touching or applying pressure to each other. Doing so helps avoid risks such as:
When storing li ion batteries for periods of one month or longer, there are a few additional precautions to take that improve the batteries’ service life and performance as well as safety.
During long-term storage, batteries should never be continuously charging, nor should they be fully charged or fully discharged. The rationale for each is as follows:
Most battery manufacturers recommend storing batteries with a 30% to 50% state of charge (SOC) for optimal performance and service life. Interestingly, the amendments to International Fire Code (IFC) regarding li ion battery storage grant waivers to their storage requirements when li ion batteries are stored with an SOC that does not exceed 30%. Batteries with 30% or less charge are considered less hazardous for storage purposes and have less chance of catastrophic failure.
Along with storing li ion batteries at the proper SOC, they should also be regularly monitored and inspected while in storage. The charge level of the batteries should be checked every few months. If the battery experiences self-discharge below 30%, the battery should be recharged back to not more than 30% SOC to maintain battery health.
The batteries should also be visually inspected for any signs of damage or swelling. Damaged or swollen batteries are a safety risk and should be removed and properly disposed of or recycled.
Short-term storage is considered to be a few days up to one month. While conditions such as the level of charge are not as critical, it is still recommended to store them at an SOC not greater than 30%. As with long-term storage, batteries should never be continuously charging while in the short-term.
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit pdu in electric vehicle.