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Huawei Digital Power's Revolutionary CI GFM ESS

In an impressive demonstration of safety and reliability, Huawei Digital Power has successfully completed an extreme ignition test of its Commercial and Industrial (C&I) Hybrid Energy Storage System (GFM ESS). Conducted by TÜV Rheinland, this rigourous assessment was the first of its kind to evaluate energy storage systems (ESS) according to the latest UL 9540A2025 certification standards. This groundbreaking test was designed with a unique focus on creating an extreme verification environment, pushing the limits of safety performance amid ignition scenarios.

The Testing Environment and Methodology

The test setup utilized a method of overcharging to induce thermal runaway in 60 battery cells, thereby increasing the severity of the evaluation exponentially compared to traditional methods involving fewer cells. To guarantee comprehensive analysis, several critical conditions were met:

• - The test employed an open-door ignition testing method, as specified in UL 9540A2025, optimizing oxygen availability.
• - All batteries were charged to a full state of 100% capacity.
• - All proactive and passive fire suppression systems were disabled during the test, compelling the energy storage systems to rely purely on their designs to withstand combustion at full energy capacity.

The Five-Stage Protective System

Under these extreme conditions, the Huawei CI GFM ESS exhibited excellent safety performance, which is bolstered by its innovative five-stage protective design:

1. Thermal Insulation Between Cells: This design significantly slows the spread of thermal runaway between cells, acting as the first line of defense for system safety.
2. All-Metal Housing: Capable of withstanding temperatures over 1500°C, this housing maintains structural integrity during intense fires, minimizing potential damage.
3. Oxygen Blocking via Pressurization and Smoke Ventilation: This innovative construction redirects flammable substances, drastically reducing fire impact.
4. Fire-Resistant Labyrinth Design: Every sealing surface of the ESS incorporates a labyrinth structure that effectively prevents flame spread.
5. Enhanced Fire Resistance of the Container: The container is armored for comprehensive fire protection.

Proving the System's Performance

The data collected from the tests provides compelling evidence of the Huawei CI GFM ESS's outstanding performance. During the test, as the fire temperature reached 961°C, the highest temperature recorded among adjacent ESS cells remained only at 45.3°C, well below the threshold for opening the pressure relief valve. This finding marks a significant success, demonstrating that the system meets all UL 9540A2025 requirements without any fire propagation among the units.

The peak heat release rate (HRR) recorded was 3 MW, with overall combustion lasting less than three hours before self-extinguishing. In the open-door combustion scenario, the system adeptly handled heat release, showcasing exceptional thermal management capabilities.

Conclusion

Huawei Digital Power's CI GFM ESS stands as a testament to innovation in energy storage technology, paving the way for safer and more reliable solutions in the industry. This extreme ignition test signifies a remarkable achievement, ensuring that the technology not only meets, but exceeds safety expectations, further propelling advancements in energy management and storage systems. As the demand for efficient and secure energy storage continues to rise, the robustness of the CI GFM ESS positions Huawei at the forefront of this crucial sector.