Lithium-ion batteries play a crucial role in electric vehicles and must undergo rigorous testing to meet international safety standards set by organizations like IEC, ISO, and SAE. These tests ensure the batteries can endure extreme conditions such as overcharging, short circuits, mechanical stress, and extreme temperatures without failure. As energy storage systems grow in size and power, laboratory safety becomes critical to prevent accidents during testing. T3’s customized testing chambers provide precise simulations of various environmental and operational stresses, ensuring compliance with safety standards and supporting the safe development of advanced energy storage technologies.
The European Council for Automotive R&D (EUCAR) hazard levels provide a framework for categorizing the severity of outcomes during battery abuse testing. Below are the levels and their relevance to battery testing chambers:
Level 0 – No Effect:
No visible or measurable damage to the battery.
Relevance: Used for routine safety evaluations during normal and slightly elevated operational conditions.
Level 1 – Passive Protection Activated:
Activation of built-in safety mechanisms (e.g., venting, fuse activation) without damage or leakage.
Relevance: Chambers test for controlled response mechanisms without escalating risks.
Level 2 – Leakage:
Leakage of electrolyte (up to 50% by volume).
Relevance: Chambers simulate and detect scenarios of electrolyte leakage to ensure safety under mild abuse.
Level 3 – Venting:
Release of gases without fire or explosion.
Relevance: Chambers are equipped with gas detection systems to monitor and manage venting.
Level 4 – Fire:
Localized flames without explosion.
Relevance: Chambers include fire suppression systems and reinforced enclosures to contain potential fires.
Level 5 – Explosion:
Violent bursting of the cell or module.
Relevance: Chambers must feature robust construction, blast panels, and safety systems to mitigate the risks of explosions.
Level 6 – Projectile:
Battery fragments ejected from the module or pack.
Relevance: Chambers are designed to contain projectiles and prevent external damage during catastrophic failures.
Level 7 – Energy Release:
Complete destruction of the test sample with significant energy release.
Relevance: Used for ultimate safety evaluations; chambers must be equipped with advanced safety systems, such as burst disks and reinforced walls.
