NIFCO Launches Mass Production of High-Flow Pressure Relief Valves for Lithium-Ion Battery Packs

NIFCO's Innovative Pressure Relief Valves for Battery Packs

In a significant step towards enhancing the safety of electric vehicles (EVs) and other applications relying on lithium-ion batteries, NIFCO, a leading company headquartered in Yokosuka, Kanagawa Prefecture, has announced the mass production of a new high-flow pressure relief valve. This innovative product, designed for various use cases, is set to play a crucial role in preventing explosions related to battery pack failures.

The Importance of Pressure Relief Valves

Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in electric vehicles (BEVs), hybrid vehicles (HEVs), and other applications due to their efficiency and performance. However, when these batteries experience thermal runaway, they can generate a dangerous amount of gas, leading to increased pressure within the battery pack. Without an effective safety mechanism, this pressure can result in catastrophic failures, including explosions.

Pressure relief valves (PRVs) act as a crucial safety device, opening when internal pressure exceeds specified limits and relieving gas to the atmosphere, thus preventing potential disasters. NIFCO's new PRV is notable because it can discharge gas at a remarkable flow rate of up to 10,000 liters per minute at 35 kPa, making it one of the most efficient products available on the market. Furthermore, after relieving pressure, the valve can close again to inhibit the influx of oxygen, thereby minimizing the risk of battery pack combustion.

Unique Features of NIFCO's Relief Valve

1. High Flow Rate: With a maximum discharge rate exceeding 10,000 L/min (at 35 kPa), the pressure relief valve significantly reduces the number of units required per battery pack, leading to cost savings for manufacturers.
2. Efficient Recapture: Once the pressure is released, the valve re-closes, effectively preventing new fuel (i.e., oxygen) from entering the battery environment and exacerbating fire risks.
3. Stable Performance: Utilizing a coil spring mechanism, the valve boasts lower pressure loss and high flow stability, ensuring reliable operation.
4. High Durability: It is designed to withstand high water pressure, effectively keeping out water and foreign particles that could trigger short circuits.
5. Lightweight and Insulating: The valve is composed of resin, making it lightweight while also providing excellent insulation properties against metallic battery packs.
6. Robust Installation: The valve is mounted using bolts, ensuring secure placement and stability within the battery system.

Applications Beyond Automobiles

NIFCO's initial focus was much on electric vehicles; however, leveraging their experience in automotive production, the company has expanded the application of these pressure relief valves to diverse sectors, including industrial storage batteries, construction machinery, and personal mobility devices. This expansion allows businesses to minimize development time and costs related to initial investments in low-volume production runs.

As NIFCO continues to innovate, they are focusing on expanding their product lineup and looking for ways to meet user needs efficiently. This movement aligns perfectly with their corporate purpose, which emphasizes connecting small insights and technologies to foster a comfortable lifestyle and a sustainable society.

NIFCO's Commitment to Innovation

NIFCO has established itself as a formidable player in engineering plastics, including industrial fasteners and precision molded products since its inception in February 1967. The company operates with a distinct vision of addressing customer challenges sincerely and prioritizing the development of environmentally friendly and safe products. NIFCO's pressure relief valve is an embodiment of this commitment, providing a critical safety solution for a variety of battery applications.

For more information on this innovative product, or to explore customization options or performance evaluations, NIFCO invites interested parties to connect with their dedicated platform business division. The new pressure relief valve represents not just a product but a step toward improved safety and sustainability within the rapidly evolving world of battery technology.

To learn more about NIFCO and inquire about their products, please visit their official website.

Company Overview:
Name: NIFCO, Inc.
Headquarters: 5-3 Hikari-no-Oka, Yokosuka, Kanagawa, 239-8560, Japan
Founded: February 13, 1967
Business: Engineering plastic products, including industrial fasteners and precision molded products.