Explosion-proof lithium-ion battery pack – In-depth investigation and experimental study on the design criteria

Abstract

The catastrophic consequences of cascading thermal runaway events on lithium-ion battery (LIB) packs have been well recognised and studied. In underground coal mining occupations, the design enclosure for LIB packs is generally constructed to be explosion-proof (IEC60079.1 Standard). This, however, in contrast to various investigations that have been performed and conducted to illustrate the inappropriate application of such protection techniques if detailed and thorough analyses of the thermal runaway mechanism and the thermodynamic characterization of the vented gas are well understood. In this article, a thorough experimental and finite element analysis is conducted to illustrate the paramount design parameters and factors that need to be considered for safe operation of large LIB packs, particularly for hazardous environments, in both traction and stationary applications. The outcomes of this investigation provide the deep insight that can evaluate the influential factors when it comes to the design of the battery enclosure and also potentially establishes new guidelines for assessing the integrity of any large-scale battery pack design and construction for various practical applications, specifically for underground coal mining applications.