Lithium Ion Batteries in Energy Storage Systems -- Assessing the Hazard

M21
Lithium Ion Batteries in Energy Storage Systems -- Assessing the Hazard
Richard Long, Exponent Inc. Andrew Blum, Exponent, Inc

Energy storage is emerging as an integral component to a resilient and efficient electrical grid. The evolution of the electrical grid will result in a greater need for services best provided by energy storage systems (ESSs). To enable the success of these systems, the fire hazards of these systems must be understood. AHJ's and installers are challenged by the lack of clear direction regarding fire protection and suppression of these hazards. Without a recognized hazard assessment made available to standards developers, AHJs, emergency responders, installation of these systems will lacks a technical basis. This presentation summarizes a hazard assessment of Li-ion ESSs, including a literature review and gap analysis and fire testing.

Presented by:

Richard Long, Exponent Inc.
Mr. Richard Long is a Principal Engineer with Exponent, Inc., and is a licensed Fire Protection Engineer in more than 20 states. He is a member of several NFPA committees and has been actively involved in the hazard assessment of li-ion batteries for the last 5 years.

Andrew Blum, Exponent, Inc
Andrew Blum is a Managing Engineer employed by Exponent, Inc. He holds a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science degree in Fire Protection Engineering from the University of Maryland. Mr. Blum is a Certified Fire and Explosion Investigator (CFEI) and performs origin and cause investigations involving fires, explosions, and other thermal events in a number of products, including lithium ion batteries. Mr. Blum has guest lectured/presented on engineering topics at the University of Maryland and other engineering conferences, including for the NFPA, and the SFPE. He is a member of the ICC, SFPE and NFPA and sits on a number of ICC and NFPA technical committees relating to fire protection systems and life safety.