Combating fire hazards with high pressure

The testing stands from Weiss Technik offer users measures for the detection and suppression of emerging fires. (Image: Weiss Technik GmbH, own image)

Weiss Technik offers environmental simulation systems for lithium-ion batteries. The test chambers are designed for measures to detect and suppress fires. Due to their high pressure reinforcement, they are ideally suited for the efficient extinguishing method using high-pressure water mist.

Environmental simulation of lithium-ion batteries requires specific technical solutions because difficult-to-extinguish fires can occur. As a result, the test chamber overheats, and highly toxic fumes and gases are released. To prevent this, Weiss Technik test chambers are equipped with measures for detecting and suppressing emerging fires.

An effective measure for fire suppression in lithium-ion batteries is the high-pressure water mist extinguishing method. Weiss Technik offers this in its environmental simulation chambers in collaboration with a system partner. This extinguishing method allows even large batteries to be cooled with very little water.

The water mist injected under high pressure expands three-dimensionally in the test chamber and provides a high cooling effect. This delays the spread of a thermal event in the battery cells. The heat absorption capacity of one kilogram of water injected at 100 bar pressure is approximately 2,700 kJ per kg.

Thanks to their innovative safety technology, Weiss Technik's environmental test chambers are well equipped: The test chamber is pressure reinforced, and the robust construction and insulation protect against thermal failure during heat entry. Pressure relief valves and a rupture disc allow controlled venting of gases. Media feedthroughs are protected by silicone stoppers, covers, and an additional stopper safety. Lastly, a closed siphon prevents gases from escaping into the sewer system under high pressure.

Weiss Technik's environmental simulation systems are suitable not only for the high-pressure water mist extinguishing process but also for other common measures for fire detection and suppression. The systems offered can be combined with each other.

Fire detection
– Battery management system
– Camera monitoring
– Gas detection
– Temperature sensors

Fire suppression
– High-pressure water mist extinguishing system
– Inerting with nitrogen
– Surface spraying

Advantages of Weiss Technik test chambers
– Pressure reinforcement
– Pressure relief valve and/or rupture disc
– Stopper safety
– Closed siphon