As the e-mobility market surges, so too does the need for robust safety measures surrounding lithium-ion batteries. UL Solutions (NYSE: ULS), a global authority in safety science, is stepping up to address this burgeoning challenge with its new testing and certification programs. These initiatives focus on battery containment enclosures and micromobility charging equipment, designed to mitigate the risks associated with thermal runaway events, a growing concern in the industry.
Based in Northbrook, Illinois, UL Solutions announced the new programs, which aim to provide peace of mind in a rapidly evolving landscape. As e-bikes and other micromobility products proliferate, the likelihood of encountering battery-related hazards increases. Battery containment enclosures are increasingly common, often resembling cabinets, and are strategically placed in public spaces like city sidewalks and apartment buildings.
UL Solutions’ new battery containment enclosure and micromobility charging equipment certification programs help address growing concerns and incidents around lithium-ion battery safety risks and thermal runaway events.
Fire departments across the nation are also supporting the use of safety-certified battery containment enclosures due to their ability to contain fire and other hazards associated with thermal runaway. The New York City Fire Department (FDNY), for example, is on board. UL Solutions’ newly launched services for micromobility charging equipment offer an additional layer of protection.
Dr. Robert Slone, senior vice president and chief scientist at UL Solutions, framed the importance, saying, “The use of e-bikes is on the rise, and new products enter the market daily that tap the convenience and sustainability of batteries.” He added, “Our new battery containment enclosure and micromobility charging equipment engineering evaluation, testing and certification services can help reduce the risks associated with the storage and charging of lithium-ion batteries and devices.”
These enclosures are engineered specifically to contain the fires and gases produced by thermal runaway events, acting as a critical line of defense, even when batteries have been properly maintained and used according to manufacturer guidelines.
UL Solutions meticulously tests battery containment enclosures, adhering to UL 1487, the Standard for Battery Containment Enclosures. This is a binational standard for both the United States and Canada, developed with the FDNY Hazmat Command’s integral input. UL Solutions’ Chief of Fire Prevention Thomas Currao emphasized the importance of these tests.
“It’s really important to have third-party experts test and certify battery containment enclosures and micromobility charging equipment to make sure they meet safety standards,” said Chief of Fire Prevention Thomas Currao, FDNY. “For battery enclosures especially, this kind of testing shows they can contain dangerous situations like thermal runaway, which will help stop fires or explosions from spreading.”
During a thermal runaway, a lithium-ion battery experiences an uncontrolled self-heating process, potentially resulting in fire, smoke, high temperatures, and the expulsion of harmful particles.
“That kind of protection matters, whether it’s in an apartment building, office or industrial space,” Currao added. “Choosing certified equipment means we’re taking smart steps to prevent battery hazards and make our city safer for the public and for our members.”
Additionally, UL Solutions is also evaluating and testing micromobility charging equipment using UL 4900, the Standard for Micromobility Charging Equipment, a binational standard for the United States and Canada. This further reinforces its commitment to safety, specifically by addressing fire and electric shock risks associated with charging infrastructure.
About UL Solutions
UL Solutions (NYSE: ULS) is a global leader in applied safety science. The company’s work transforms safety, security, and sustainability challenges into opportunities for its customers in over 110 countries. UL offers testing, inspection, and certification services, coupled with software products and advisory offerings. Their aim is to support their clients’ product innovation and business growth. The UL Mark is a symbol of trust in the products they test, certifying the organization’s dedication to safety. UL Solutions aims to assist its customers in achieving sustainable and responsible growth.
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Source: UL Solutions Inc
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