THE PROBLEM – HOW DO LITHIUM ION BATTERIES CATCH FIRE AND EXPLODE?

• A malfunctioning lithium ion battery may go into “thermal runaway,” as its internal temperature quickly exceeds its normal operating range and begins to burn
• Explosive gases, such as hydrogen, are then released as a byproduct of thermal runaway
• Nearby batteries will likely also enter thermal runaway, causing a dangerous chain reaction
• The greater number of malfunctioning batteries, the greater the risk of a catastrophic fire or explosion

FIKE’S SOLUTIONS

BESSs may be protected in various ways, which ultimately depend on:

• BESS’ proximity to urban areas, workers or other critical assets
• Concern of preserving the enclosed batteries
• Available budget
• Owner’s preferences (example: gaseous agents instead of water mist fire suppression)

Therefore, several “layers of protection” are available which range from the mitigation of a catastrophic fire to the prevention of a catastrophic fire.