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The world is moving towards modernized solutions and is leading towards more use of battery systems like Lithium-ion,  lead acid and other chemistries batteries, powring for example electric vehicles and storage solutions. However, this has raised a significant challenge: who is responsible when a fire event occurs?

This issue is not only limited to Lithium-ion batteries, which provide energy to entities such as mobiles, electronic devices, and electric cars. Understanding this complexity involves navigating through the entire supply chain, the technology used, and the risks associated with battery utilization.

Complexities involved with battery utilization

Lithium-ion batteries are at the forefront of storage technology and are advancing in a way that no one expected. Even the production process of batteries is transitioning into modernized methods. Let’s talk about these batteries and see how they are being utilized.

The nature of Lithium-ion batteries explained

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Lithium-ion batteries are the latest addition to the battery niche and are preferred because of various reasons including energy density, weight, and longer life span.

But, these advantages come with a set of distinct challenges. For instance, the chemistry of Lithium-ion is susceptible to physical damage and that can lead to uncontrolled fires if not managed properly. Jan Swart, a battery systems failure analysis expert says a proper failure analysis investigation will determine who is liable for the event.  A failure to do so may implicate the wrong party.

Supply chain and manufacturing process

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The entire supply chain for the lithium batteries process is complex. From mining Lithium and other minerals to manufacturing cells, and assembling battery packs, every step involves supply chain stakeholders. Not only that, forced work and labor issues during mining further complicate this process.

The various subsystems in Lithium-ion batteries are manufactured by multiple manufacturers in the supply chain, all responsible for quality and consistency of their product which affects the overall reliability and safety of the Lithium-ion battery at systems level.

Responsibilities and risks in battery utilization

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Moving forward, the major risks associated with the use of lithium batteries are mentioned. There is a catch to prevent that risk. However, that can still lead to major mishaps.

High-risk application

Lithium batteries are being widely used to power electric vehicles and solar energy storage systems. The demand for these batteries is all-time high, with frequent charging and discharging, exposure to high temperatures, and high current flows. This puts an enormous strain on lithium battery packs, and if the pack fails, the consequences can be severe, such as battery fires and accidents.

Fire suppression and safety system

Given these risks, fire suppression systems come into play and are crucial for managing lithium batteries safely. However, these systems are not foolproof and require correct installation and maintenance in the supply chain. Vendors do provide proper guidelines, but they cannot control how the lithium batteries are implemented and maintained in the real world. This underscores why vendors cannot take full responsibility.

Market and technological considerations

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Market considerations and technological advancements add another layer of why vendors cannot take responsibility for utilization in battery systems.

Evolving technologies and changing standards

Battery technology is on the path to more technological advancements and is promising longer life, improved performance, and more safety. But, these advancements mean that the standards and practices are also changing. Vendors may produce the latest battery systems, but they cannot assure that users will adhere to the latest practices and standards, or older systems will be updated accordingly. This change is another major reason why vendors are not taking full responsibility.

Market pressure

The market for battery systems is highly competitive. The users not only want a battery that is powerful but also affordable. To meet these demands, it is the role of the vendor to balance the cost, quality, and performance. Sometimes vendors cut the costs meaning they compromise on the quality or skip the QC process.

Moreover, the expectations of customers are always unrealistic, with most users expecting flawless performance without understanding the limitations and risks linked with batteries.

Real-world examples and case studies

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Batteries are walking grenades if they are not managed properly. Yes, they have their advantages, but they also come with high risks. Below are the real-world examples that support this statement.

EV makers

Electric vehicle makers are the perfect example of the challenges vendors face in the supply chain. Big giants like Tesla, GM, and Nissan are the biggest producers of Li-ion batteries. Being the giants, they still face issues related to battery performance and safety.

For example, Tesla had to call back vehicles due to battery issues, highlighting the fact that even the biggest players cannot fully mitigate the risks. Such cases show that the responsibility for utilization cannot rest solely on the vendors.

Energy storage

Another common use of battery systems is with solar panels. These systems are critical parts that help in storing the power generated from solar panels. However, the improper installation and maintenance of batteries in solar plants can lead to higher costs, lower efficiency, and safety hazards. Vendors can only offer assistance on how to install the batteries, but they cannot take responsibility for utilizing the batteries correctly.

What’s the solution?

Now that we have established that both vendors and users play an important role in managing battery systems, let’s talk about the collaborative approach to preventing mishaps.

The first thing is that governments play an important role in ensuring the safety and reliability of battery systems in electric vehicles and solar panels generation. They can set standards for battery production, transportation, and utilization. Keep in mind that the regulations will not be the same for every country and vendors cannot enforce compliance at every level. That is what we need to escape. All governments should provide standard rules, making uniform regulations globally.

The second thing is there is a need for a comprehensive solution. This includes robust industry standards, quality supply chain transparency, and better customer education.

Battery manufacturers, governments, suppliers, and customers should all work together to deeply understand battery systems and develop a way that ensures that these efficient storage systems are being utilized in the correct way.

Wrapping Up!!!!

The question of why vendors can’t take responsibility for utilization in battery systems comes with multiple faces. The risk of lithium-ion, complex manufacturing processes, and the variations in user practices contribute to this question. While vendors can provide high-end battery systems and guidelines for operating batteries on ground, the ultimate responsibility lies with most people including manufacturers, governments, and customers. In simple words, vendors cannot be entirely blamed for this and the climate change.

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Sources:

1: https://www.teslarati.com/tesla-model-3-model-y-pyrotechnic-battery-disconnect-recall-explained/

2: https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/about-20-bodies-found-after-fire-south-korea-battery-plant-yonhap-reports-2024-06-24/#:~:text=HWASEONG%2C%20South%20Korea%2C%20June%2024,Chinese%20nationals%2C%20fire%20officials%20said.