Frequently Asked Questions about the FIRE⚡️ISOLATOR Concept
On this FAQ page, you’ll find all the answers to our most Frequently Asked Questions! To make it easier for you, we have divided the questions into several categories:
- General FAQ
- Fire Blanket FAQ
- Handheld aerosol units FAQ
- WaterMist Lance FAQ
- Penetrating and flushing a battery compartment FAQ
- Electric Vehicle Fires on Ships FAQ
- Electric Vehicle Fires in parking garages FAQ
General Fire Isolator FAQ
- What is the FIRE⚡️ISOLATOR concept?
The Fire Isolator concept is a comprehensive approach to isolating and fighting EV car fires, developed based on best practices and live testing. It combines a high temperature-resistant fire blanket, handheld aerosol units, and a water mist to effectively manage and minimize damages caused by such fires.
- Why is there no single solution to extinguish EV car fires?
EV car fires involve complex lithium-ion batteries that require specialized methods to control and extinguish. Due to the unique challenges they pose, a combination of firefighting techniques is needed for effective containment. A thermal runaway in a lithium-ion battery cannot simply be stopped by taking the oxygen. As a result, a single fire blanket will not stop the thermal runaway but will prevent collateral damages.
- What is the main goal of the FIRE⚡️ISOLATOR concept?
The primary objective of the Fire Isolator concept is to isolate and control EV car fires while minimizing collateral damage. It focuses on preventing the fire from spreading and reducing risks associated with toxic fumes and smoke.
- How do you handle EV fires with the FIRE⚡️ISOLATOR concept?
Firstly, it must be emphasized that – generally speaking – EV fires are rare and significantly lower in frequency than gasoline or hybrid vehicles. The real risk, however infrequent, lies in the potential devastation of these hard-to-handle fires. Fires from Li-ion batteries used in EVs and hybrid cars can burn hotter and longer than gasoline fires and can take tens of thousands of liters of water to extinguish. Such fires can be triggered by damaged batteries, collisions, and during the charging of a defective battery.
When an EV fire occurs, however, using the traditional method to extinguish it, water, does not provide the same outcome as water does with combustion-engined cars. The burning lithium-ion battery cannot be extinguished by throwing water on it. It is of because of the risk of the fire continuing to burn and as a result spreading to other cars, a ship, or a building construction, that the Fire Isolator concept provides a better and more effective way to control such an EV car fire. When the focus shifts from ‘extinguishing’ to ‘ controlling’ , firefighters or crews need to change their mindset to minimize the collateral damages. This is where the true strength of the Fire Isolator concept lies.
The FIRE⚡️ISOLATOR concept comprises several proven elements:
- High-temperature resistant car Fire Blanket to isolate and control the fire.
- Handheld Aerosol units to suppress the flames and interrupt chemical reactions.
- Water mist to reduce toxic fumes, smoke, and keep the car cooled.
- Use of the EV fire gun, to pentrate and flush the battery compartment with an insulated drill and water nozzle head that is powered by any average powertool
- Thermal imaging camera for enhanced situational awareness.
- Training in the concept to ensure proper implementation.
- What role does the Fire Blanket play in the concept?
The Fire Blanket is used to isolate and control the fire, preventing collateral damage. It can withstand high temperatures (up to 1600 degrees C°/ 2900 degrees ℉) and offers control over the situation, although it does not extinguish the battery fire by itself. Furthermore, by pulling the blanket over the car, it provides the ‘ confined space’ that the aerosol units need to be effective in kicking down the flames.
- How do aerosol units contribute to the firefighting of electric vehicles in this concept?
Aerosol units interrupt chemical chain reactions in flames, suppressing the fire and reducing temperatures. This approach is vital in containing the fire and preventing its escalation. In several live tests, we have even witnessed that two aerosol units were able to stop the thermal runway in a lithium ion battery.
- What is the purpose of the water mist lance in the FIRE⚡️ISOLATOR concept?
The water mist lance has several purposes within our concept.
The water mist lance can be deployed to spray a fine mist over the Fire Blanket, which helps lower toxic fumes, smoke, and temperature levels. This contributes to keeping the situation under control and reducing hazards. By spraying a water mist over the blanket (car), the blanket becomes more gastight, increasing the effectiveness of the aerosol units.
The water mist lance can also be used to penetrate the battery pack and flood it with water from within. This takes for the fire fighting crew to first locate the battery pack and then penetrate that with the water mist lance.
- Why is a thermal imaging camera used in this concept?
A thermal imaging camera enhances situational awareness by providing real-time visibility of temperature variations. This aids firefighters in assessing the fire’s progress and the effectiveness of their actions.
- What is the significance of submerging the EV car in a dipping container?
Submerging the EV car in a dipping container for a period of time is an essential last step in fully extinguishing the fire and ensuring safety. This process helps to eliminate any remaining risks.
- Is training provided for implementing the FIRE⚡️ISOLATOR concept?
Yes, training is a crucial component of the Fire Isolator concept. Firefighters are trained in the proper utilization of the concept’s elements to ensure effective firefighting and minimize potential dangers. We regularly organize training days. These trainings take a full day and are 50% theoretical and 50% hands-on with our concept: the blanket, the aerosol units and water mist lance. These training days can take place at one of our locations in the Netherlands or can be organized at a location of your preference, globally. Participants get a syllabus and a training certificate.
- Who developed the FIRE⚡️ISOLATOR concept?
The Fire Isolator concept was developed by Fire Isolator BV, an ISO9001 certified company from the Netherlands, together with a team of specialists with extensive experience in fighting EV car fires. Their expertise led to the formulation of this comprehensive approach to firefighting.
- Has the FIRE⚡️ISOLATOR concept been tested?
Yes, the Fire Isolator concept has been thoroughly tested and proven to be effective in minimizing the collateral damages of an EV car fire. Extinguishing the fire (thermal runaway) in the lithium-ion batteries is close to impossible and can only be done by submerging the car in a dipping container, or by penetrating the battery compartment and flush it with the EV fire gun. The Fire Isolator concept prevents collateral damage, brings down the fire’s temperature and wins you time to think about an extraction plan for the car. The concept’s elements have been certified (ISO EN 13501-1, ASMTD6413, ABS, NFPA701) and rigorously examined to ensure their functionality in real-world scenarios. You can view a compilation of various live fire tests from around the world in this video.
- Is the FIRE⚡️ISOLATOR concept suitable for specific locations?
Yes, the Fire Isolator concept is designed for use in various locations such as car parks, garages, car carriers, and ferries where EV fires might occur. ‘The Fire Isolator fire blankets are also used in warehouses for storage of lithium ion batteries as our blankets come in different sizes and shapes.
- Can the FIRE⚡️ISOLATOR concept be adapted for different types of EVs?
Yes, the Fire Isolator concept is adaptable and can be applied to different types of electric vehicles, considering the underlying principles of isolating and containing the fire.
- What sets the FIRE⚡️ISOLATOR concept apart from traditional firefighting methods?
The Fire Isolator concept’s strength lies in its comprehensive approach that combines multiple proven techniques. It focuses specifically on the challenges posed by EV car fires, ensuring effective containment and damage reduction.
Fire Blanket FAQ
- Does a fire blanket work on electrical fires?
Yes, a Fire Blanket can be used to control electrical fires, including fires involving electric vehicles. While it does not stop the chemical process inside a battery (thermal runaway), it helps contain the flames, reduce heat radiation, and limit the spread of toxic smoke. In the case of an EV fire, covering the vehicle with a fire blanket helps keep the situation under control until professional firefighting services arrive.
- What type of fire can a Fire Blanket be used on?
A Fire Blanket can be used on different types of fires. In the case of a regular car fire, a fire blanket can eventually smother the flames and fully extinguish the fire by cutting off the oxygen supply. For electric vehicle fires, a fire blanket helps to control the situation. It will not stop the battery reaction itself, but it will contain the flames, reduce heat radiation, and help prevent the fire from spreading or causing additional damage.
- What type of Fire Blankets does Fire Isolator offer?
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FI-BL0906 Ultimate (9 x 6 meters) — our strongest and most proven blanket for controlling and isolating electric vehicle fires.
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FI-BL0806 Ultra (8 x 6 meters) — a high-performance blanket suitable for both combustion engine and electric vehicle fires, reusable up to 30 times.
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FI-BLECON0806 Economy (8 x 6 meters) — a cost-effective solution for car fires, reusable for standard fires but single-use for EV fires.
- What is the most sold Fire Blanket?
Our most sold EV fire blanket is the Fire Isolator FI-BL0906 Ultimate Fire Blanket. This blanket is specially designed to control and isolate electric vehicle fires. It is our most proven and battle-tested blanket, trusted in various industries.
Key specifications:
- Size: 9 x 6 meters
- Suitable for electric vehicle fires
- Carries certifications including ISO EN 13501-1 A1 and NFPA 701
- Strong and durable design
- Reduces smoke and toxic fumes
- Creates an enclosed space, allowing aerosol units to work effectively
- Prevents fire spread and limits collateral damage
- What is the Ultimate FI-BL0906 fire blanket?
The Ultimate FI-BL0906 is a high-temperature resistant car fire blanket developed by Fire Isolator. It’s designed to isolate smoke and fire during electric vehicle (EV) car fires. It is made of high silica. You can find the datasheet right here.
- How does the Ultimate FI-BL0906 fire blanket address electric vehicle fires?
This reusable blanket, with high-temperature resistance up to 1600 degrees Celsius / 2900 degrees Farenheit, helps control situations and minimize collateral damage during EV car fires when promptly deployed. It also creates the enclosed space that the aerosol units need to effectively kick down the flames.
- What’s the proper way to deploy the fire blanket?
Deploying the fire blanket effectively requires a minimum of two people. It involves carefully positioning the blanket over the burning vehicle to ensure complete coverage, while handling it with care to avoid damage. This process is shown in this animated video.
- Can the fire blanket alone extinguish the battery fire?
No, while the fire blanket provides control, it cannot extinguish the battery fire on its own. Additional measures are needed for optimal results. However, by pulling the blanket over the burning car, it takes away the oxygen for the rest of the car that is on fire (the burning lithium-ion battery will not be extinguished by taking away the oxygen) so in the end, the fire will be smothered and go out.
- What additional measures complement the fire blanket?
Additional measures include aerosol units that interrupt chemical chain reactions in flames, and a water mist lance to reduce toxic fumes, smoke, and maintain the car’s temperature.
- What other electric vehicles can the fire blanket be used for?
The car fire blanket is versatile and suitable for electric vehicles like e-bikes, e-scooters, and various electric devices. It’s even used to protect artifacts in museums in case of fire and very big blankets are used for busses and other big vehicles or machinery with lithium batteries onboard.
- Why is versatility important for firefighters and organizations?
The fire blanket’s versatility makes it a valuable tool for professionals dealing with diverse fire scenarios. It’s adaptable to various situations, enhancing its usefulness.
- Are there size options available for the fire blanket?
Yes, Fire Isolator can produce fire blankets in various sizes to meet specific needs. Our standard sizes are:
- 9 x 6 meters for cars, pickup trucks, and small vans
- 8 x 6 meters for cars and smaller vehicles
- 3 x 3 meters for eBikes, eScooters, and stored lithium-ion batteries
- 2 x 2 meters for smaller battery storage and compact applications
- Has the FIRE⚡️ISOLATOR blanket been tested and/or certified?
Yes, the Fire Isolator car fire blanket has been rigorously tested according to ISO EN 13501-1 standards to ensure quality and reliability. It was also tested according to ASTMD6413 and NFPA701.
- Is the fire blanket suitable for locations like car parks and ships?
Yes, the fire blanket is designed for locations where EVs are in close proximity, such as car parks and car decks on ships, providing a solution for challenging scenarios.
- How does the fire blanket help control toxic fumes and smoke?
Using either our water mist lance or one of our water mist applicators, water mist reduces toxic fumes, smoke, and cools the vehicle, contributing to overall fire control efforts.
- Can the fire blanket be used multiple times?
Yes, the Ultimate FI-BL0906 fire blanket is reusable up 6-7 times, making it a sustainable and effective solution for multiple fire incidents. We base this on our own live tests, where we used the same blanket on 3 different EV/hybrid car fires with the battery in thermal runaway. After these fires, the blanket was visibly used, but usable. The FI-BLULTRA0806 blanket, which is coated with a silicon coating, is reusable up to 30 times. The FI-BLECON0806 blanket is for one-time use.
- Who can benefit from using the fire blanket?
Firefighters, emergency responders, and organizations dealing with electric vehicles and fire incidents can benefit from the use of the fire blanket, ensuring enhanced safety measures.
- What material is the FIRE⚡️ISOLATOR blanket made of?
The Fire Isolator FI-BL0906 blanket is made of Hi Silica >98%. This material has in general a higher heat resistance than fibre glass. The FI-BLULTRA0806 blanket is made of 98% silica + layer of silicon coating. The FI-BLECON0806 is made of 87% silica.
- What is the weight of the 9 x 6 meters blanket for cars?
The FI-BL0906 blanket weighs 37 kg. It comes in a sturdy carrying bag with user instructions.
Handheld aerosol units FAQ
- What is a handheld aerosol unit used for?
An aerosol unit is a handheld device used by first responders and firefighters to significantly reduce fires, primarily for class A, B, and C fires. It can be activated on the scene and thrown into the fire area to aid in fire reduction.
- How does the aerosol unit work?
The aerosol unit contains solid microparticles, primarily potassium nitrate, which serves as an anti-catalytic agent. When activated, these particles drain energy from the fire, reducing its intensity.
- How do you activate the aerosol unit?
To activate the aerosol unit, straighten the far ends of the pins and pull the pin out. A clicking sound confirms successful activation. The unit begins producing aerosol approximately 8 seconds after activation and discharges within 25 seconds. You can read more about this here.
- What is the average hold time of the aerosol unit?
The average hold time, or time before re-ignition, is around 30 minutes. The hold time depends on factors like leakage and the amount of substance inserted, with smaller volumes leading to longer hold times.
- Can the aerosol unit be used alone?
The aerosol unit is most effective when used in combination with other tools like the Fire Blanket and Water Mist Lance. These tools complement each other to enhance fire control.
- How should aerosol units be used in EV car fires?
When dealing with EV car fires, aerosol units work best when thrown under the vehicle after covering it with the Fire Isolator fire blanket. This strategy ensures that the active substances remain under the blanket and enter the burning vehicle.
- How does the Water Mist Lance contribute to using aerosol units?
The Water Mist Lance wets the Fire Blanket, making it harder for aerosol substances to escape. This helps enhance the effectiveness of the aerosol unit in controlling fires.
- Is there a bracket for holding the aerosol unit?
Yes, there is a bracket on the side of the aerosol unit, designed to make it easy to hold and throw into the fire.
- Is there any health concern associated with aerosol units?
While a normal concentration of aerosol particles is generally safe, inhalation of micro-sized particles may cause short-term discomfort. Unnecessary exposure should be avoided.
- What should first responders do upon arrival?
First responders should inform firefighters and concerned parties about the deployment of the aerosol unit, ensuring coordinated efforts in fire control.
- Can aerosol units be used for all types of fires?
Aerosol units are primarily effective for class A, B, and C fires. These units are designed to handle a range of fire scenarios to aid in fire reduction and control.
- Are aerosol units suitable for all fire situations?
Aerosol units are especially valuable for scenarios where traditional firefighting methods might be challenging or less effective, making them a versatile tool in fire control efforts.
- Can the aerosol unit be reused after activation?
No, once activated and discharged, the aerosol unit cannot be reused. It is a one-time-use device designed for specific fire control situations.
- Are there specific training requirements for using aerosol units?
Training in proper aerosol unit deployment and handling is recommended for first responders and firefighters to ensure effective and safe use in fire control scenarios. How to deploy the aerosol units is shown in this animated video.
- What certificates do the handheld aerosol units hold?
The handheld aerosol unit is the DSPA 5.4 model aerosol generator that holds all the necessary certificates, among which is the ABS testing certificate. The DSPA 5.4 is a low-pressure aerosol unit, which means it can be shipped safely by ship, plane, etc.
- Do the aerosol units have an expiry date?
The aerosol units have a shelf life of 15 years. There is no yearly maintenance needed.
Water Mist & Electric vehicle fire FAQ
- What is a water mist lance and what is the role of it in the FIRE⚡️ISOLATOR concept?
The Water Mist Lance is part of the Fire Isolator concept for controlling and fighting EV car fires. The lance has the ability to penetrate and flood EV car lithium batteries to cool down the batteries in case of fire. However, based on our own experiences and best practices, we advise to use the water mist lance as a way to spray a water mist over the blanket while it is on the burning EV. By doing this, the water mist makes the blanket even more dense, which increases the effect of the aerosol units. The ‘heavier’ and more dense the blanket is, the more confined the space is where the aerosol unit is active, meaning that leakage of the aerosol cloud is minimal.
- How does a water mist help to contain electric car fires?
Water mist is an effective method for suppressing electric vehicle fires due to its unique properties. When water is dispersed as a fine mist, it rapidly evaporates upon contact with high temperatures, absorbing significant heat and thereby cooling the fire. Additionally, the expansion of water droplets during evaporation displaces oxygen around the fire source, reducing the oxygen concentration and hindering combustion. This dual action of cooling and oxygen displacement makes water mist particularly suitable for tackling EV fires, where traditional firefighting methods may be less effective. At Fire Isolator, we offer several Water Mist applicators and a Water mist lance.
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What water mist devices does Fire Isolator offer?
Fire Isolator provides a range of water mist applicators designed to combat electric vehicle fires effectively:
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Water Mist Lance (FI-WMLANCE): This stainless steel lance sprays a fine water mist over a fire blanket after it has been deployed on a burning EV. This action enhances the blanket’s effectiveness by making it wetter and more airtight, thereby improving fire containment and reducing toxic vapors. The mist also aids in cooling the area and displacing oxygen, which further suppresses the fire.
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Water Mist Applicator 36 (FI-MWA36): A lightweight, mobile tool designed for easy maneuvering under or next to burning vehicles, especially in confined spaces like parking garages or ferries. It sprays a fine water mist to cool the vehicle before covering it with a fire blanket, providing personal protection by creating a barrier between the user and the heat.
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Water Mist Applicator 126 (FI-WMA126): This applicator is placed directly under or near the car battery, targeting the source of most EV fires. By delivering water mist directly to the battery area, it rapidly cools and suppresses the fire, enhancing safety and reducing potential damage.
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Water Mist Applicator 138 (FI-MWA138): An extended version of the 126, this applicator is longer yet remains lightweight (approximately 10 kg), allowing for easy handling by a single person. It can be placed under the car to cool the vehicle’s underside effectively.
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Water Mist Applicator 241 (FI-MWA241): The largest in the series, weighing around 30 kg, designed to cool almost the entire bottom of the vehicle. It can also be positioned sideways to provide extensive coverage, ensuring comprehensive cooling and fire suppression.
These devices are constructed from high-quality materials to ensure durability and effectiveness in high-risk situations involving electric vehicle fires.
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- How to cool an electric car fire effectively?
Cooling an electric car fire is best done by targeting the battery area with water mist. Fire Isolator’s Watermist Lance sprays fine mist over the fire blanket, enhancing cooling and containment.
For direct cooling, the Watermist Applicators 36, 126, 138, and 241 are placed under or near the vehicle, releasing a fine mist that lowers temperatures quickly and helps prevent the fire from spreading. These lightweight tools are designed for easy use in tight spaces, making them essential in controlling EV fires.
Penetrating and flushing a battery compartment FAQ
- How do you penetrate a lithium ion battery to flush it with water?
Penetrating a lithium-ion battery to flush it with water requires a specialized tool designed for this purpose. The Fire Isolator EV FireGun is developed to safely penetrate the battery housing of an electric vehicle and deliver water directly into the battery pack. By flooding the compartment with water, the tool cools the battery cells from the inside, helping to stop the fire and reduce the risk of reignition.
- How does the Fire Isolator EV FireGun work?
The Fire Isolator EV FireGun (FI-FIREGUN) is designed to pierce the battery box of an electric vehicle and flood it with water at the source of the fire. It delivers 40 liters of water per minute at 2 bar pressure, cooling the battery cells internally and significantly reducing the chance of fire spread and reignition.
The EV FireGun is quick to deploy, reliable, and most effective when used as part of the Fire Isolator Concept, in combination with fire blankets, aerosol units, and water mist applicators.
Watch the instruction video here.
Electric Vehicle Fires on Ships FAQ
- Can EV car fires on ships be prevented?
No, it’s not possible to prevent EV car fires on ships completely, especially due to the presence of lithium-ion batteries that can enter into thermal runaway. However, the Fire Isolator concept offers a solution to effectively manage and mitigate the risks associated with such fires.
- How should one handle an Electric Vehicle (EV) fire on a ship?
When faced with an EV fire on a ship, water alone isn’t sufficient to extinguish it. The ‘Thermal Runaway’ phenomenon keeps the fire alive inside the battery. Using a fire blanket to isolate the fire is crucial. It won’t extinguish the battery fire but prevents collateral damage. This step should be taken immediately after detecting the fire. Based on several tests performed by the LASH fire project, the best practice to control EV car fires on board ships (ferries and car carriers) is this: Detection of the fire – ventilation system switched off – drenching/deluge system activated – pull fire blanket over car to minimize the collateral damage – manual firefighting – keep surrounding cars wet and/or also pull a blanket over those cars.
- What happens after the fire blanket is placed?
After placing the fire blanket over the car, aerosol units come into play. These units aim to interrupt the thermal runaway and suppress the fire’s intensity, while not fully extinguishing it. The water mist lance then sprays water mist over the blanket to reduce toxic fumes, and smoke, and further cool down the car.
- Why is monitoring with a Thermal Imaging camera recommended?
Monitoring the car with a Thermal Imaging camera is advisable to keep track of the situation. This helps ensure that the fire remains under control and doesn’t escalate.
- What does the FIRE⚡️ISOLATOR concept aim to achieve?
The Fire Isolator concept aims to minimize collateral damage caused by EV car fires on ships. It focuses on isolating the fire to buy time for reaching a safe haven and unloading the vehicle without causing additional harm.
- Can the FIRE⚡️ISOLATOR concept be used for combustion engine cars as well?
Yes, the Fire Isolator concept has been successfully tested on both combustion engine cars and EVs. It offers a versatile solution to address fire risks in various types of vehicles.
- How does the FIRE⚡️ISOLATOR concept contribute to safety on ships?
By effectively managing EV car fires, the Fire Isolator concept enhances safety on ships carrying electric vehicles. It minimizes the chances of fires spreading and causing extensive damage. The use of high temperature-resistant fire blankets is now also included in the latest UK government guidelines for transporting EV’s onboard ships. Read more.
- What benefits does the FIRE⚡️ISOLATOR concept offer for cargo ships?
TheFire Isolator concept provides cargo ships with a proactive approach to handling EV car fires, ensuring that fires are contained and damages are minimized. It offers a level of control that is essential for safe transportation of EVs.
- Is the FIRE⚡️ISOLATOR concept adaptable to various ship environments?
Yes, the Fire Isolator concept is designed to address EV car fires on different types of ships, including cargo ships. It can be applied in scenarios where EVs are transported on water vessels.
- How effective has the FIRE⚡️ISOLATOR concept been in testing?
The Fire Isolator concept has undergone thorough research and live testing. It has demonstrated effectiveness in controlling EV car fires and preventing escalation, as validated by both researchgate.net and practical tests.
- Is the FIRE⚡️ISOLATOR concept a viable solution for the growing EV market?
Yes, with the rising popularity of EVs and their transportation on ships, the Fire Isolator concept offers a viable and practical solution to tackle the challenges posed by EV car fires during shipping.
- Which shipping companies are using the FIRE⚡️ISOLATOR concept?
The Fire Isolator concept is currently in use by the following list of shipping companies: MOL (multiple ships), MSC (Cristiana, Immacolata), Wagenborg (Baltic Borg, Botnia Borg), Neptune car carriers (Neptune Galene, Dynamis, Tharros, Barcelona, Koper) Sunrise, Sunshine, Grimaldi, Fairfield car carriers, Sunbelt Spirit car carrier, Smyrrel line, Holland Norway lines, AdMare ship management. As a result, these shipping companies now have more equipment on board to fight any possible EV car fire.
Electric Vehicle Fires in parking garages FAQ
- Are EV car fires different from a regular (combustion engine) car fire in a carpark?
If a regular, combustion engine, car catches fire in a parking garage, there are now means to extinguish it as soon as possible. Here ‘water’ is the key. However, that same water doesn’t do the job when it comes to putting out an electric vehicle. A lithium battery cannot be extinguished by spraying water over it or removing the oxygen. They can be extinguished by completely submerging the car in a submersible container, but this is either not available in a parking garage, or the car cannot be towed directly outside the parking garage to this container.
- How are EV fires detected in parking garages?
We know of detection systems that are installed in parking garages that monitor the temperature of EV’s. When the temperature reaches 60-70°C (32°F) , this could indicate that a thermal runaway is imminent. The temperature at which the thermal runaway occurs depends on the cell size, cell materials en cell design and it may vary from 130°C to over 200°C. There are several companies that offer these types of monitoring systems. One such company is Siemens.
- How is fire safety managed for electric vehicles in parking structures?
Despite the development of early detection systems that can alert the user when a lithium-ion battery is about to go in thermal runaway, we notice that these systems are often only implemented in the parking spots where EV’s are charged. It is true that the chance of a battery going into thermal runaway is bigger when the car is charged, there are also cases known where a battery goes into thermal runaway without being charged. So, knowing that an Electric Vehicle can park anywhere in the carpark, there is still the risk of big collateral damages if the fire is not detected early enough. The most ideal situation would be for the parking garage crew to be trained and equipped to pull the Fire Isolator blanket over the burning car as soon as possible. The sprinkler system (if available) will keep the surrounding cars wet, but will not be able to extinguish the thermal runaway in the battery of the EV. The challenge for fire fighters here is that pretty soon the carpark will be filled with smoke, which hinders visibility. Still, we strongly advise to pull the Fire Isolator blanket over the car, keep the car wet with a water mist, throw a handheld Aerosol Unit under the blanket to reduce the flames, and to keep the surrounding cars wet. If available, and keeping the blanket on the car, the car should be pulled out of the garage with a remote-controlled tracked robot. Once outside the parking, the car should be submerged under water in a dipping container.
- How does a fire blanket and the Fire Isolator concept help contain electric vehicle fires in car parks?
By pulling over the Fire Isolator, high temperature resistant fire blanket over the (burning) car, the risk of big collateral damages is reduced. The blanket contains the fire. By the nature of carparks, they are places where lots of cars are parked near each other. There is also the risk of the fire affecting the building structure or piping systems. This is why it is essential to have the Fire Isolator concept (blanket, handheld potassium aerosol units, water mist) available on each floor of the carpark. When training and equipped with the right PPE, the parking garage crew can deploy our Fire Isolator concept. If it is needed to wait for the fire fighters to arrive at the garage, they need to have our concept available to be quickly and safely deployed.
You can read more about our advised approach for EV car fires in carparks here: https://fireisolator.com/fighting-and-controlling-ev-car-fires-in-car-parks-and-parking-lots/