Battery storage fire detection is a growing topic. Also, battery energy storage systems, or BESS, are being built in large numbers for solar and wind power, and in many buildings. A fire in a lithium-ion battery can grow fast, so the earliest possible warning is important.
In this guide, we explain the main risk, why very early detection helps and how an aspirating smoke detector can be part of a protection plan. We do not replace the rules for your site, so always follow the local codes and the battery maker’s advice.
The risk behind battery storage fire detection
When a battery cell overheats or is damaged, it can enter a chain reaction called thermal runaway. Before this point, the cell can release vapours and fine particles. After it, the fire can spread from cell to cell.
For this reason, the goal of battery storage fire detection is to find the first signs and to act before the chain reaction grows.
Why very early warning helps
An aspirating smoke detector draws air from the battery room or container through small pipes and measures particles all the time. It can find the first traces of smoke or vapour much earlier than a ceiling detector. This gives the operator time to isolate a rack, switch off charging or call for help.
Read how the technology works in our aspirating smoke detector guide.
Planning battery storage fire detection
A sound plan has five parts.
- Start with the risk assessment. Use the battery maker’s data and the local code for energy storage.
- Use more than one signal. Many designs combine smoke detection with other sensors, such as gas or heat, as the code asks.
- Place the sampling points well. Cover the racks and the air path inside the room or container.
- Link the outputs. Decide what happens at each alarm level, such as a warning, a shutdown or a signal to the control room.
- Test and maintain. Follow the steps in our guide on aspirating smoke detector testing.
Where this applies
Typical sites are grid storage containers, solar and wind farms, battery rooms in data centres and standby power rooms. See data centre fire detection and electrical room fire detection.
Products for battery storage
The MiniLaser is a compact aspirating smoke detector for small and medium rooms. Also, it is available through Edwards, Kidde Commercial and AirSense. Larger plants can use the ModuLaser. Both can connect to a fire panel through relays or the addressable interface card. For UL projects, see UL aspirating smoke detection. Please ask our team to confirm the fit for your battery design.
Nøgletakeaways
- A damaged or overheated lithium-ion cell can start a chain reaction called thermal runaway.
- Aspirating detection finds the first smoke or vapour earlier than a ceiling detector.
- Good designs combine several signals and clear outputs, as the local code asks.
- Test and maintain the system like any other critical detection.
Ofte stillede spørgsmål
Can an aspirating smoke detector detect a battery fire?
It can detect the smoke and fine particles that an overheating battery releases, often earlier than a ceiling detector. Your design should follow the local code and the battery maker’s advice.
Is smoke detection enough for battery storage?
Many codes and designs use several kinds of detection, together with suppression and ventilation. Follow the rules that apply to your site.
What is thermal runaway?
Thermal runaway is a chain reaction in which a cell heats itself and can pass the heat to the next cells.
Do I need a special detector for batteries?
The choice depends on your design and the code. Ask our team to review your project.
Browse the aspirating smoke detection systems and the infrastructure and utilities page for related sites.