Manufacturers and suppliers of lithium ion cells and batteries can have their products thoroughly tested in a new state-of-the-art test laboratory in Karlstein (Germany), which the batteryuniversity.eu with the support of BMZ Batterien-Montage-Zentrum has put into operation. In the laboratory, which is among the most advanced of its type in Europe, cells at 0 to 5V with up to 10/120 A as well as batteries at 0 to 60V with up to 200A or to 12kW can be tested. Furthermore, the batteryuniversity.eu offers complete UN Transport Tests including specialist support in the event that a redesign of the battery packs is necessary with the issuance of expert reports and certificates required for the transport of lithium ion cells or batteries.
According to Sven Bauer, founder of batteryuniversity.eu and managing director of BMZ, it was decided to take this step, not least because of the significantly more stringent transport regulations for lithium ion cells and batteries that came into effect from January 1, 2009. Despite the well-known risks during transport and storage of lithium batteries, some manufacturers, suppliers and transport companies still consciously or unknowingly ignore the regulations. Sven Bauer considers this to be highly dangerous. “Lithium in powder or dust form can self ignite at around 20°C room temperature. Lithium as a solid material ignites in the air when the melting point of 179°C is reached; however, once this point is reached a metallic fire that can not be extinguished develops quickly with temperatures in excess of 2000°C.”