Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are a critical component that ensures energy continuity and grid balance in solar power plants. However, these systems must comply with certain standards and test procedures in order to operate safely. Fire risks, overcharging/discharging and thermal runaway events in batteries can create serious safety issues. Therefore, it is of great importance to design, test and implement safety protocols for BESS systems in accordance with international standards.
Safety and Fire Risks in BESS Systems
Safety in battery systems is mainly concerned with fire risks and battery failures.
- Thermal Leakage: When batteries start to overheat, a chain reaction can occur and lead to battery fires.
- Overcharge and Discharge: These are conditions that shorten battery life and increase the risk of explosion.
- Short Circuits and Electrical Faults: Lightning, high voltage surges or equipment failures can cause serious hazards to battery systems.
The main safety standards to minimize these risks:
- NFPA 855: Sets fire safety standards for energy storage systems.
- UL 9540A: Defines thermal runaway test procedures.
- FM Global 5-33: Provides guidelines for the safe installation of energy storage systems in industrial buildings.
Battery Management System (BMS) and Energy Management System (EMS) Role
Battery Management System (BMS) and Energy Management System (EMS) play critical roles in the safe and efficient operation of BESS systems:
- BMS: Monitors the voltage, current and temperature levels of the batteries to prevent overcharging or discharging.
- EMS: Manages the overall energy balance of the battery system and optimizes its integration with the grid.
Performance Tests and Acceptance Processes
Before a BESS system can be commissioned, it must undergo different tests.
- Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT): Testing the system at the factory to check that it complies with standards such as IEC 62933-2-1.
- Field Acceptance Tests (SAT): Evaluation of the system’s performance under actual charging/discharging conditions in the field where it is installed.
- Thermal and Environmental Testing: Tests that measure the battery’s resistance to extreme temperatures, humidity and mechanical impacts.
Testing and Certification Processes within the Scope of IEC 62933 Series Standards
The following IEC standards are critical for the safe integration and use of BESS systems:
- IEC 62933-1: Defines BESS terminology.
- IEC 62933-2-1: Defines test methods and unit parameters.
- IEC 62933-5-2: specifies safety requirements for electrical energy storage systems.
Overcharge, Overdischarge and Thermal Leakage Risks
- Overcharge and Discharge Protection: Must be limited by voltage and current limits controlled by the BMS.
- Thermal Leakage Protection: Fire detection systems, active breathing systems, active cooling mechanisms and appropriate battery design should be used.
- Safety Procedures: Mechanisms should be in place to automatically shut down the system in unusual circumstances.
Conclusion
The implementation of safety, testing and performance standards in BESS systems is critical for the long life, efficient and safe operation of the system. Battery systems designed in compliance with IEC standards, NFPA and UL safety guidelines increase both investment security and guarantee continuity in energy supply.
If you want to get information about all these audit and control processes, you can contact us at [email protected].