Challenge: lithium-ion batteries in high-bay warehouses
The storage of lithium-ion batteries in high-bay racks is a major safety challenge. Conventional sprinkler systems quickly reach their limits in the face of extreme temperatures. At the same time, the enormous amount of extinguishing water used can cause considerable consequential damage, which is sometimes greater than the fire damage itself.
Against this background, FOGTEC has developed a highly effective high-pressure water mist solution that is specifically designed for the fire risks in battery storage facilities.
As part of the SUVEREN2use research project, large-scale fire tests were carried out on a scale that is unique worldwide.
The test conditions were deliberately designed as a worst-case scenario:
- Real battery modules
- Fully loaded pallets
- Full-size shelf warehouse
- NCA and NMC cells
- 100% state of charge
The aim was to investigate the behaviour in the event of thermal runaway and a resulting fire in a realistic manner and to validate the effectiveness of the protection concept under maximum load.
Containment instead of fire spread
FOGTEC’s high-pressure water mist system successfully limited the thermal runaway to a single rack compartment. The fire was prevented from spreading to neighbouring storage areas.
This proved under real conditions that targeted water mist application can be used effectively even with fully charged lithium-ion batteries.
What makes the solution stand out
The special features of the system at a glance:
- Tested and validated in full-scale fire tests – under the supervision of TÜV Süd and carried out by the accredited IFAB test laboratory
- Up to 95% lower water consumption compared to conventional rack sprinklers – with a corresponding reduction in the impact on surrounding goods and technical equipment
- No restrictions on charge status – batteries can be stored with up to 100% SOC
Outlook
Further details on the test results and the underlying protection concept will be published shortly. We will keep you informed about the next steps and the complete evaluation of the test series.
