Fire protection of air-cooled energy storage box

Can a battery energy storage system control electrical fires?

However, these systems may be used in the computer or control rooms of an ESS to control any electrical fires. Thermal runaway in lithium batteries results in an uncontrollable rise in temperature and propagation of extreme fire hazards within a battery energy storage system (BESS).

What is a battery energy storage system?

A battery energy storage system (BESS) is well defined by its name. It is a means for storing electricity in a system of batteries for later use. As a system, BESSs are typically a collection of battery modules and load management equipment.

Are energy storage systems flammable?

These systems combine high energy materials with highly flammable electrolytes. Consequently, one of the main threats for this type of energy storage facility is fire, which can have a significant impact on the viability of the installation.

What is battery energy storage fire prevention & mitigation?

In 2019, EPRI began the Battery Energy Storage Fire Prevention and Mitigation – Phase I research project, convened a group of experts, and conducted a series of energy storage site surveys and industry workshops to identify critical research and development (R&D) needs regarding battery safety.

Are battery energy storage systems safe?

Owners of energy storage need to be sure that they can deploy systems safely. Over a recent 18-month period ending in early 2020, over two dozen large-scale battery energy storage sites around the world had experienced failures that resulted in destructive fires. In total, more than 180 MWh were involved in the fires.

How does a fire protection system work?

In addition to controlling the automated extinguishing system, the fire protection system triggers all other necessary battery management system control functions. As its name implies – "aspirated" smoke and off-gas detection systems use an "aspirator" mounted in a detector unit.