#China #Shenzhen #Huawei #Smart String #Grid Forming

Huawei's Revolutionary Energy Storage Test

In a groundbreaking achievement, Huawei Digital Power's Smart String and Grid Forming Energy Storage System (ESS) has successfully completed a rigorous ignition test under extreme conditions. Conducted in the presence of clients and the globally recognized risk management organization DNV, this test marks a significant milestone in enhancing safety standards in the energy storage industry.

Test Overview

The innovative test was designed to validate the ESS's capabilities in real-world scenarios, adhering to international standards such as UL 9540A. Huawei augmented the rigor of this testing by introducing a higher number of cells subjected to thermal runaway, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of the Smart String and Grid Forming system's safety features, particularly during extreme startup conditions.

Key Findings and Highlights

1. Real-World Testing Conditions: All four Smart String and Grid Forming units (containers A, B, C, and D) used for the test were manufactured in series production. Fully charged, these units were deployed per the minimal operational and safety standards required in actual factory settings. The entire testing procedure was executed automatically, minimizing human intervention to mimic a realistic, extreme testing environment.

2. Thermal Runaway Management: Unlike conventional ESS systems where thermal runaway typically leads to combustible gas release and potential fire or explosion, Huawei's Smart String demonstrated remarkable resilience. The occurrence of thermal runaway in 12 cells did not result in any destructive incident. This was made possible through the system's innovative combined defense mechanism, which includes a positive pressure oxygen barrier and a directional smoke evacuation duct, effectively channeling combustible gases out without igniting a fire.

3. Fire Resistance Capability: The test involved progressively increasing the number of cells experiencing thermal runaway while ensuring maximal oxygen supply to simulate severe combustion scenarios. Despite these challenges, temperatures in the adjacent containers (B, C, and D) remained below the critical threshold of 47°C, thus reaffirming the system's durability and integrity in extreme conditions.

4. Slow Progression of Fault: In comparison to conventional systems, Huawei's ESS significantly delayed the fire initiation by up to 7 hours, even as thermal runaway conditions escalated. This slow fault progression offers emergency personnel critical time to intervene, mitigate risks, and enhance the safety of both individuals and property.

A Technical Breakthrough

The successful results from these tests do not just highlight the enhanced safety features of the Smart String and Grid Forming ESS; they redefine the safety logic in energy storage systems. Emphasizing the importance of safety in renewable energy's sustainable development, this achievement positions Huawei at the forefront of the energy storage sector. With its architectural innovations, Huawei has elevated safety protocols from merely container levels (industry standards) to packaging levels, significantly hindering thermal runaway propagation.

The implications of this test extend beyond Huawei; they set new industry standards, pushing the boundaries of innovation and safety in energy storage technology. As renewable energy systems evolve, the solutions brought forth by Huawei will play a critical role in shaping a safer, more efficient future in energy storage.