In our technology-driven world, lithium-ion batteries have become the lifeblood of many electronic devices, powering everything from smartphones and medical equipment to electric vehicles. Their versatility and rechargeable nature make them an essential part of our daily lives. However, with the increasing prevalence of lithium batteries, it’s crucial to understand how to handle a lithium battery fire. This comprehensive article explores the risks associated with lithium batteries, strategies for fire prevention, and effective methods to extinguish lithium battery fires.
Why Do Lithium Batteries Catch Fire?
Lithium batteries can catch fire when they experience overheating, a phenomenon known as “thermal runaway.” During this process, the battery’s lithium-ion cells release flammable gases due to excessive heat. The overheating of a single cell can trigger a chain reaction in neighboring cells, leading to thermal runaway. The speed of this reaction can vary from milliseconds to hours, depending on the rate of cell failure. The heat generated during this process can be intense enough to ignite a fire.
Several factors can trigger lithium battery fires, including:
- Short Circuits: Short circuits can occur due to improper storage, damage, or the presence of metal dust from manufacturing, potentially leading to combustion.
- Overheating: Extreme temperatures, such as those in loading docks, cargo holds, or on tarmacs, can cause batteries to overheat and catch fire during transportation or storage.
- Rough Handling: Dropping or excessively jostling a battery during transport or use can initiate thermal runaway.
- Physical Damage: Damage during recycling operations, such as shredding or dismantling a battery, can result in an explosion.
- Wet/Humid Conditions: Rainwater, salty air, and humidity can lead to short circuits and trigger thermal runaway, even in the absence of prior battery damage.
How to Extinguish a Lithium Battery Fire
The approach to extinguishing a lithium battery fire depends on the battery’s size and type:
- Lithium-Metal Batteries: Class D fire extinguishers are effective for lithium-metal battery fires.
- Lithium-Ion Batteries: These are Class B fires, indicating the presence of flammable liquids. Standard dry chemical or ABC extinguishers are suitable for extinguishing these fires. These extinguishers work by countering the liquid electrolytes in the battery that create conductive pathways.
- Small Lithium Batteries: Small batteries contain minimal lithium and can be doused with water. To extinguish large lithium-ion battery fires, use a foam extinguisher containing CO2, powder graphite, ABC dry chemical, or sodium carbonate.
In the case of battery pack fires, each cell may burn on a different timeline. Placing the battery pack in a protected outdoor area allows it to burn out completely.
If a fire cannot be extinguished, it’s advisable to let the battery burn out in a controlled manner while preventing the fire from spreading by saturating the surrounding area with water.
How to Prevent a Lithium Battery Fire
Preventing a lithium battery fire is crucial. Recognizing the warning signs of a failing battery is the first step in averting a fire. Look out for unusual heat, noise, smoke, odor, or swelling, which can indicate battery failure. Follow these safety tips:
- Purchase batteries from reputable manufacturers.
- Never attempt to recharge non-rechargeable batteries.
- Disconnect the battery from the charger once the charging cycle is complete.
- Use the charger provided with the battery or one approved as compatible by the manufacturer.
- Store batteries away from extreme temperatures.
- Charge batteries in a fire-safe charging bag, if available.
- Inspect batteries after installation and periodically after recharging. If they appear damaged, avoid recharging.
- Remove lithium-ion batteries from devices before storage.
- If a charging device emits excessive heat, unplug it and store it away from flammable objects until it cools down. If necessary, replace the battery or seek help from the fire department.
Choose Redway Battery for Lithium Battery Fire Safety
Lithium-ion batteries offer us numerous advantages, but understanding how to prevent and handle lithium-ion battery fires is essential. While these incidents are rare, it’s wise to be prepared. Redway Battery specializes in high-performance industrial textiles, including flame-retardant fabrics for high-temperature and fire applications. Whether you’re looking for fire prevention or safety solutions, our products and capabilities are here to serve your needs. Contact us or request a quote to learn more.
