Lithium-Ion Batteries and others

[Urbancowboy]

Last week a Fire Chief in a nearby Community had a new Lithium polymer Battery which was removed from the unit after it run out of charge exploding. The Chief reported it was removed from his Air Soft Gun then just set on the Floor of his Garage then 15 minutes later it self detonated and exploded then started on Fire. Luckily it was noticed by his Spouse because of the smoke alarm otherwise the House could have burned down.

Now we have these Batteries everywhere including Computers, eBikes, cell Phones, Flashlights the list goes on. I don't scare easily but this got me thinking what I could do within reason to prevent this happening in our Household.

I already got myself a metal Box into which I place my eBike Batteries when recharging. I think I will also have a chat with my House Insurance provider to be sure that Fire damage started by Batteries is included in the Policy.

Any other thoughts will be appreciated.

Cheers

 

[DaveMatthews]

A while back this convo came up and I decided to count the number of rechargeable lithium ion batteries I had in my house.
The number was amazing and revealing, from old phones to ebikes, and garden tools, guitar wireless, and all kinds of crap.
I think I ended up close to or over 40 batteries.
I don't know how big an Airsoft battery is, and even a small one can torch a place, but please do take an inventory in your house.
You may be surprised...

 

[harryS]

Maybe the Fire CHief's kid drove over the battery with the car, The airsoft battery is Li-ion pouch cells, probably the most riskiest kind. It's all plastic.. There's no protective circuity inside to protect it.

 

[6zfshdb]

Last week a Fire Chief in a nearby Community had a new Lithium polymer Battery which was removed from the unit after it run out of charge exploding. The Chief reported it was removed from his Air Soft Gun then just set on the Floor of his Garage then 15 minutes later it self detonated and exploded then started on Fire. Luckily it was noticed by his Spouse because of the smoke alarm otherwise the House could have burned down.

Now we have these Batteries everywhere including Computers, eBikes, cell Phones, Flashlights the list goes on. I don't scare easily but this got me thinking what I could do within reason to prevent this happening in our Household.

I already got myself a metal Box into which I place my eBike Batteries when recharging. I think I will also have a chat with my House Insurance provider to be sure that Fire damage started by Batteries is included in the Policy.

Any other thoughts will be appreciated.

Cheers

As you say, lithium batteries are everywhere but before you panic, be aware that statistics are in your favor. When you consider the number of batteries compared to reported incidents, the number is miniscule. I like to think of it as the total number of cigarettes compared to the number of fires caused by smoking in bed. Sure, the numbers are different but the principle is the same with most being caused by human error.

There is no doubt that lithium batteries need to be treated with respect and handled correctly. Doing so minimizes any risk. Storing and charging in a can can't hurt but it's impractical for items like cell phones and other portable electronic devices. Also, a can won't contain a fire caused by a large battery, such as those used on e-bikes. A can will simply melt or explode if sealed.

The safest way to charge these batteries is in a dry temperate outdoor location away from combustibles. I know of people who use a gas grill on their patio. If you have to charge indoors and are really concerned, consider a fire resistant location like a fireplace or wood stove.

There are many ways to minimize risk. Don't store or charge at temperatures above or below the manufacturers recommendations. Don't charge overnight or while unattended. Use a timer on your charger to avoid accidental overcharging. Don't charge a battery that has been damaged until it has been checked by a qualified professional.

Volumes have been posted here on lithium batteries. Use the search feature if you're really concerned or just want more information.