Ul -solutions has announced improvements of his testing methods for battery energy storage systems (BESS) that tackle innovations in the industry, including test methods for non-lithium-ion battery chemistry, such as sodium batteries that reflect the evolution of the battery technology, while the fire risk reduction.
Credit: e-storage and UBS Asset Management
The changes reflect updates that are found in the fifth edition of ANSI/CAN/UL 9540A, the standard testing method for evaluating thermal running fire propagation in storage systems for battery energy storage storageThe American and Canadian national standard for tackling thermal -running spread for energy storage systems. The fifth edition was published by Ul -standards and involvement After cooperation with the energy storage industry, regulatory authorities and others participating in the Technical Committee of De Standaard.
“We are committed to working with the industry to market safer products and to strengthen the safe and sustainable growth of the market for energy storage,” said Wesley Kwok, VP and general manager of the Energy and Industrial Automation Group at Ul Solutions. “These cooperation efforts with stakeholders in the industry and the fire brigade community ultimately improve the resilience of our energy infrastructure and protect communities worldwide.”
ANSI/CAN/UL 9540A offers a standardized test method to determine the sensitivity of a battery technology for thermal runner. The test method also evaluates fire and explosion sailing as a result of thermal runner, such as the expression of hot particles. After testing, a report offers data that is used to determine the necessary fire and explosion protection required for tested Bess installations. The data from the report is used to demonstrate compliance with codes and installation standards, such as NFPA 855 and the International Fire Code.
The original test methods for thermal spreading for energy storage systems were developed in 2017. After several revisions, UL landed on this fifth edition. The most important improvements include clearer criteria for cell-to-cell propagation, high temperature test methods for different battery chemistry and test protocols for emerging applications such as on roof and open-garage BESS installations.
While ANSI/CAN/UL 9540A focuses specifically on the test method, the related UL standard, UL 9540, the standard for energy storage systems and equipmentoffers extensive product safety criteria and the basis for UL certification of the entire Bess itself. This includes battery cells, modules and racks and electricity conversion, battery management, energy management, communication and safety systems. The coordinated application of UL 9540A and UL 9540 and compliance with relevant installation codes help support the safe implementation of Bess.
“The rapid integration of energy storage in all sectors requires an unwavering focus on reducing fire and explosion risks and accurate involvement in industry, regulators and other experts. This must be achieved with a strong basis of science, because safety and reliability are of the utmost importance for the worldwide energy transition.
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