Johnson Controls launches lithium-ion off-gas detection device

Johnson Controls has launched a lithium-ion risk prevention system engineered to provide early-warning detection of battery failure in lithium-ion energy storage systems.

The Johnson Controls device monitors for lithium-ion off-gases, which are produced shortly after cell malfunction occurs. Reference sensors provide surrounding ambient air data to the controller, while the monitoring sensors within the battery racks capture data relating to the air directly adjacent to the batteries. The sensors detect off-gases in a concentration as small as one part per million (ppm) and are compatible with all lithium-ion chemistries.

When the sensors detect off-gas, they immediately and automatically communicate with the battery management system to shut down the affected battery stacks to help prevent thermal runaway. In applications where the off-gases can build and cannot be vented externally, an inerting system may be employed to help prevent the off-gases from igniting. Early intervention helps protect valuable assets – extending the lifetime value of energy storage systems while keeping surrounding assets intact.

“The unique, three-step risk prevention system integrates off-gas monitoring and early intervention with traditional fire detection and suppression methods,” said Derek Sandahl, senior product manager, Johnson Controls. “The single system with monitoring can feed into a building management system, so all battery health information is provided quickly, and the system can respond appropriately.”

The Johnson Controls Lithium-Ion Risk Prevention System can be readily integrated into existing power storage systems since it does not require any electrical or mechanical contact with battery cells. For integration with fire detection and suppression systems, it is used with AUTOPULSE, ZETTLER or FIRECLASS Detection and INERGEN or SAPPHIRE Inerting or Fire Suppression Systems.

The technology is based on the Li-ion Tamer gas detection system. 

News item from Johnson Controls

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Original Source: https://www.solarpowerworldonline.com/2021/02/johnson-controls-launches-lithium-ion-off-gas-detection-device/