This paper deals with the arc flash hazard calculation in large energy storage systems (ESSs), with specific reference to battery energy storage systems (BESSs) and supercapacitor energy storage systems (SESSs). Due to the lack of international harmonized standards and the growing use of large ESSs, the evaluation of arc flash hazard associated with BESS maintenance operation is an interesting subject.
The main features of Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are high energy and power density, which make this storage technology suitable for portable electronics, power tools, and hybrid/full electric vehicles. Moreover, during conditions that lead to failure, Li-ion battery cells could undergo into a process called thermal runaway, which has resulted in numerous fire accidents. Thermal runaway implies a rapid increase in battery cells temperature, accompanied by the release of flammable gases. These flammable gases could be easily ignited by the battery’s high temperature, resulting in a fire.
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