Which lithium-ion battery types are your operations using and how should you be storing them to minimise the risk of a thermal runaway?
The operational risks associated with lithium-ion batteries are such that when it comes to their storage, safety should always be a top priority.
As you might expect when discussing potential storage and containment solutions, one size does not fit all. Each type of battery has its own unique set of requirements and safety observations to keep in mind depending on its size and the power it contains.
What you might not expect are the risks, should you be storing your lithium-ion batteries incorrectly. From the health and safety of your people to your site’s ability to continue operating, it’s absolutely vital that you’re managing this technology responsibly.
Read on to match your battery types with the appropriate energy storage requirements and learn how the Emtez Lithium-Ion Battery Storage container can keep your people safe.
Click to download your copy of our four-step risk assessment checklist for lithium-ion batteries.
Lithium-ion battery storage according to performance class
Low-power Li-ion battery
Typically found in: desktop computers, multimedia, mobile phones, electrical devices
Energy storage requirements: ≤100 Wh per energy storage device
Safety observations: where larger volumes are stored together (volume over 7m3) the notes for medium-power batteries apply (see below).
Medium-power Li-ion battery
Typically found in: electric bikes, electric scooters, lawnmowers, grass trimmers
Energy storage requirements: >100 Wh per energy storage device and ≤12 kg gross per energy storage device
Safety observations: storage in fire-rated separated areas or with a safety distance (spatial separation of 5m). Do not mix in storage with other fire-accelerant products. The storage area should be monitored by a fire alarm system with connection to a permanently manned location, and fire extinguishing equipment must be available to hand at all times, including written documentation on suitable extinguishing media in the technical product data sheets.
High-power Li-ion battery
Typically found in: electric vehicles such as cars or forklift trucks, any other large-scale mains-independent equipment
Energy storage requirements: >100 Wh per energy storage device and/or >12 kg gross per energy storage device
Safety observations: With batteries of this size, regulations and associated protective measures are typically agreed on a case-by-case basis with insurers. Example measures include storage in fire-rated separated areas or with a safety distance (spatial separation of 5m), separation and limitation of quantities, and presence of suppression systems.
Related read: 5 Ways Your Lithium-Ion Batteries Can Be Damaged (and What to Look For)
General safety regulations when storing Li-ion batteries
- As standard prices, protect battery terminals from short-circuiting and the risk of mechanical damage. This might impact where you locate battery terminals when reviewing your site.
- Don’t expose the batteries to high temperatures or direct heat sources (including handling, storing, or charging them in direct sunlight) as this significantly heightens the risk of thermal runaway.
- Wherever possible, maintain the presence of automatic extinguishing equipment. When this isn’t possible, ensure separation (min. 2.5m) from other combustible materials.
- If a battery is identified as being damaged or faulty, remove it immediately from storage and production areas. Until it is disposed of, store it at a safe distance or in a separate, fire-rated area.
For the safest results, always follow the manufacturer's instructions (these usually take the form of user manuals or technical product data sheets).
Introducing the Emtez Lithium-Ion Battery Storage
Leading the charge in lithium-ion battery storage solutions, we’re excited to present our patented Lithium-Ion Battery Storage container for all your Li-ion battery storage needs.
Each unit is expertly engineered using fully seam-welded steel construction for maximum safety — inside out and outside in. Hazardous gas extraction acts quickly to clear the air.
They use suppression systems with integrated tanks to help manage and control a fire in the event of a thermal runaway. Separate battery trays are used for discrete suppression.
Every unit is fire-rated to at least 90 minutes of protection, amongst the highest fire-rating commercially available today, so you can be confident that the explosion and the resulting fire is contained while its thermal detection systems alert you to the incident.
Get in touch today to find out more about this innovative unit and how you can benefit or browse the rest of our lithium-ion cabinets, available now.
Securing more than just your batteries
Proper storage of lithium-ion batteries is crucial to ensuring safety in your operations.
To minimise the risk of thermal runaway, it’s important to match each battery type with the appropriate energy storage requirements and safety observations. The bigger the battery, the bigger the risk, so take the time to understand your batteries and their storage needs.
Don't let the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries put you off from embracing this competitive technology. If you recognise the value of investing in a specialist solution, our Emtez Lithium-Ion Battery Storage provides maximum safety and protection in the event of an incident. To that end, you’re securing more than just your people and your premises. With our well-engineered containers on site, your peace of mind is safe and sound.
