16 Questions
What is the primary risk related to Lithium-Ion Batteries (LIBs)?
Thermal runaway
What is a characteristic of Energy Storage Systems (ESS)?
Capable of supplying electrical energy at a later time
What is a common cause of thermal events in LIBs?
Damaged batteries
What should you do if an LIB has been submerged in saltwater?
Discard the battery immediately
What is a type of Energy Storage System (ESS)?
Walk-in container system
What is a hazard associated with LIBs?
Dispersion of toxic flammable gases
What is a consequence of thermal runaway in LIBs?
Dispersion of gases and/or violent explosion
Why should you discard an LIB if it has been submerged in water for a long period of time?
It may discharge or cause a fire
What can combine to form a flammable, explosive, and toxic atmosphere?
Gases from lithium-ion batteries
What is a characteristic of lithium-ion battery fires?
They can unexpectedly re-ignite
What should TFS personnel wear when working in a Controlled Area?
Full PPE, including SCBA
What should be done with ESS containers during an incident?
Leave them closed and untouched
Why should Incident Commanders consider letting the fire burn itself out?
To protect exposures from a safe distance
What can remain in lithium-ion batteries even when discharged?
A significant amount of stranded energy
Who should be contacted when dealing with a lithium-ion battery incident?
Site staff and CANUTEC
What should the Incident Commander do with the involved batteries?
Use a TFS supplied cell phone to take pictures and send to the Division Chief
Study Notes
Energy Storage Systems (ESS)
- Definition: A battery or group of batteries that store energy to supply electrical energy at a later time.
- Types of ESS:
- Walk-in container system (outdoor)
- Outdoor cabinet, not walk-in
- Indoor facility (residential, commercial, public utility)
- Large and small vehicle batteries
Thermal Runaway
- Definition: A phenomenon where a lithium-ion cell enters an uncontrollable, self-heating state.
- Risks:
- Dispersion of gases
- Ejection of shrapnel and/or particulates (violent cell venting)
- Fire
Background
- Use of Lithium-Ion Batteries (LIBs) is growing exponentially in residential, commercial, and public utility applications.
- Damaged batteries, improper charging, and non-regulated equipment are common causes of thermal events.
Hazards
- LIBs may rupture and disperse toxic, flammable gases and/or explode violently due to:
- Thermal conditions (hot or cold temperatures, changes in temperature)
- Physical damage (impact, crush, pierce)
- Electrical issues (overcharging, forced discharge, internal manufacturing defects, internal short circuiting)
- Drying after being wet (discard battery if submerged in saltwater)
- Flammable and toxic gases produced during thermal runaway can combine to form a flammable, explosive, and toxic atmosphere.
Safety Considerations
- Note: Water will not prevent a battery from entering thermal runaway.
- General guidelines:
- All TFS personnel must wear full PPE, including SCBA, in a controlled area.
- No ESS containers should be opened or overhauled for safety.
- Incident Commanders should consider letting the fire burn itself out and set up defensive operations.
- Always consider the system energized, even when shut down and/or discharged.
- CANUTEC is the primary resource for information.
- Incident Commander will use a TFS-supplied cell phone to take pictures of batteries involved and send to Division Chief (DVC) Fire Investigations.
This quiz covers the definitions and concepts of Energy Storage Systems, including types of ESS and the risks associated with Thermal Runaway.
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