COMPREHENSIVE SOLUTIONS FOR AUTOMATIC FIRE SUPPRESSION OF ELECTRIC VEHICLE BATTERIES

Abstract

The growing number of electric vehicles worldwide presents new challenges related to fire hazards. Spontaneous combustion of batteries may result from overheating, damage, or short circuits. This article aims to develop a comprehensive solution for an automatic fire suppression system for electric vehicle batteries. Considering the structural characteristics of a battery pack of an electric vehicle, one of the most effective ways to suppress a fire is by cooling the battery cells with water. Fire suppression efficiency can be improved by implementing design modifications to the battery housing, including the addition of water supply and drainage pipelines. This enables the development of an automatic fire suppression system that functions while the vehicle is parked or charging. In the event of a fire while an electric vehicle is in motion, the presence of pipelines will facilitate faster response by fire and rescue units. To determine the key parameters of an automatic fire suppression system for electric vehicles, appropriate methods are proposed to assess the required amount of water for a specific vehicle model, the maximum water consumption for fire suppression, and the necessary pipeline diameters. The system is controlled by a PID controller, ensuring a rapid and appropriate response to combustion events in electric vehicle batteries while minimising the risk of uncontrolled fire spread. The scientific novelty of this study lies in the development of a methodological framework for enhancing fire suppression systems for electric vehicle batteries by establishing methods for determining the key parameters of an automatic fire suppression system. The practical significance of the obtained results lies in the formulation of design proposals for an automatic fire suppression system for an electric vehicle that manufacturers can implement in practice.