EV Fire Suppression for lithium battery fires
EV fire suppression refers to the methods and technologies used to prevent, detect, and ‘extinguish’ (although containment is often the highest achievable stage) fires in electric vehicles (EVs). These vehicles, powered by lithium-ion batteries, pose unique fire risks due to the potential for thermal runaway — a condition where one cell’s failure can lead to a rapid, uncontrolled increase in temperature and pressure, potentially causing a fire or explosion that can be difficult to extinguish with traditional firefighting methods.
The risks of lithium battery fires in Electric vehicles
Lithium-ion batteries, which power most electric vehicles (EVs), bring significant advantages in terms of energy density, rechargeability, and longevity. However, they also pose specific risks in terms of fire safety.
The most significant risk associated with lithium-ion batteries is Thermal Runaway. This occurs when one or more cells in a battery undergo an uncontrolled temperature and pressure increase. Thermal runaway can eventually lead to a fire or even an explosion.
Other risks of lithium-ion batteries are:
- Overheating and overcharging, which also leads to Thermal Runaway.
- Electrical short circuits that lead to sudden heat generation.
- Chemical leaks when the battery case is breached in case of damage to the car.
EV Fire Suppression: Prevent, detect, and extinguish fires
Preventing an electric vehicle fire
Unfortunately, a fire in an electric vehicle (EV) or a hybrid (HEV) cannot always be prevented, despite the advanced safety measures and technologies in place. Several inherent factors and unpredictable conditions contribute to this challenge.
Detecting an electric vehicle fire
Detecting an EV fire early can be crucial for minimizing collateral damage. That is why several companies have solutions for detecting a thermal runaway in an early stage. Such detection systems are designed specifically to address the unique challenges posed by electric vehicle (EV) and hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) fires. These systems use sensors installed within the battery compartment and other critical areas of the vehicle and can detect a heat increase such as Thermal Runaway in an early stage.
However, even though this is a great solution for individual vehicles, it’s important to recognize that it is not a solution for all scenarios where EV fires might pose a risk, especially in contexts like parking garages or ships transporting multiple EVs, where multiple electric vehicles are present.
Control and Isolate an electric vehicle fire
Even with early detection of potential heat generation or thermal runaway, there is still no guarantee that an EV fire can be prevented. This is why we at Fire Isolator believe it’s crucial to always be prepared for a possible fire. Our focus isn’t at all on ‘saving’ the vehicle in question, but rather on controlling and isolating the fire to minimize collateral damage to the surrounding area.
Due to the self-sustaining nature of thermal runaway, we at Fire Isolator have moved away from using the word ‘extinguish’ in relation to lithium-ion battery fires. Instead, we prefer to discuss how we control & isolate them.
Fire Isolator (ISO9001 certified), a concept developed by T-ISS Safety Suppliers has been a global leader in safety products and signage across all sectors for over 40 years. The Fire Isolator concept integrates multiple tested and proven components that, when combined, offer optimal results in EV Fire Suppression in car parks, garages, or on ferries.
The Fire Isolator Concept consists of:
- The use of a high-temperature resistant car Fire Blanket in order to isolate and control the fire and prevent collateral damage.
- The use of aerosol units, which interrupts the chemical chain reactions occurring in the flames and suppresses the fire resulting in further temperature reduction.
- The use of a water mist lance to spray a water mist over the blanket in order to reduce toxic fumes and smoke and to keep the car cooled.
- Thermal imaging camera.
- A dipping container in which the EV car needs to be submerged after.
- Training in this concept.
Real-life examples of the Fire Isolator Concept in action
Curious to see the Fire Isolator Concept in action through a diverse range of tests and live demonstrations? Visit our video page and explore our video collection. These videos showcase the exceptional effectiveness and reliability of our EV fire suppression solutions in a variety of scenarios, illustrating why Fire Isolator stands out in the industry.
Our video library doesn’t just feature tests conducted by our team; it also includes live tests carried out by our valued dealers worldwide. We’re proud to share that these independent tests consistently yield outstanding results, mirroring the success achieved by our in-house team!
EV Fire Suppression – Frequently Asked Questions
Why is there no single solution to extinguish EV car fires? How do you handle EV Fires with the Fire Isolator concept? And what role does our Fire Blanket play in this concept?
Read all this and more on our FAQ page.
Become a Fire Isolator Dealer!
Are you passionate about EV Fire Suppression and interested in joining a trusted brand at the forefront of innovation? Look no further. As a Fire Isolator dealer, you’ll have the opportunity to represent our Fire Isolator concept, a rigorously tested, proven effective solution in controlling and isolating EV fires.
Join us in our mission to make the world a safer place. Become a Fire Isolator dealer today and partner with a leader in EV fire safety. Contact us now to learn more about this exciting opportunity!