In recent years, lithium-ion batteries have become a staple in many everyday products and devices. Their extensive use can be seen in a variety of electronic items, including cordless tools, construction equipment, and electric vehicles. The growing dependence on lithium-ion batteries is largely due to their dependable energy output and the convenience of being rechargeable. However, this increased usage has also led to a rise in incidents involving lithium-ion battery fires.
While these fires are not extremely common, they can pose significant challenges if a battery explodes or ignites. Unlike regular fires, lithium-ion battery fires necessitate specialized methods for extinguishing. This blog will explore the topic of lithium-ion battery fire extinguishers, detailing how these fires can start, why traditional extinguishers may not work, and the most effective ways to put them out.
Research conducted by business insurer QBE reveals that in 2023, UK fire services dealt with 46% more fires linked to lithium-ion batteries compared to 2022.
In light of these findings, QBE is urging for improved safety protocols concerning lithium-ion batteries, highlighting that the fires they cause have unique characteristics that differ from traditional fires.
Defender is committed to ensuring everyone’s safety! That’s why it’s crucial to educate everyone on how to spot the signs of potential lithium-related fires and to encourage practices that help prevent these incidents. Additionally, we have launched a specialised line of innovative extinguishers designed specifically for lithium-ion battery fires.
Lithium-ion batteries generally pose a risk primarily when they experience impacts, suffer damage, are overcharged, or are subjected to extreme heat. These conditions can lead to thermal runaway, a situation where the battery overheats uncontrollably. This can create serious hazards, including the potential for explosions and severe burns. During this process, a chemical reaction may generate flammable gases, increasing the risk of fire. Having a Lithium Battery Fire Extinguisher on hand can help protect you from fires that may arise from malfunctioning or overheated batteries.
During a visual check, you might notice that the battery looks swollen and shows signs of discoloration or blistering. It could also feel very hot to the touch or be making strange noises or producing smoke. If you see these warning signs, the battery could be close to exploding.
The ideal fire extinguisher for tackling a lithium-ion battery fire is one that is specially designed to handle the intense and hazardous flames associated with such incidents.
The Defender LFX fire extinguisher is specifically crafted to combat fires caused by lithium-ion batteries. In addition to its main purpose of extinguishing these fires, the LFX fluorine-free extinguisher also offers protection against secondary A-class fires that may occur due to battery explosions.
Start by positioning the lithium extinguisher upright, either holding it in your hand or placing it securely on the ground at a safe distance from the flames. First, take out the safety pin and break the tamper seal. Then, free the hose and aim the nozzle at the base of the fire from at least 1 meter away. Grasp the handle and gently squeeze to release the extinguisher’s contents, directing it across the flames.
As the fire starts to subside, you can gradually approach closer. Be sure to use all the contents of the lithium extinguisher to fully extinguish the fire, and keep a watchful eye on the area for any signs of re-ignition. Always remember to use an extinguisher only for small fires. If the fire is too large to manage, evacuate the area immediately, alert others, and contact the fire and rescue service.
Lithium-ion fire extinguishers are not suitable for extinguishing fires caused by flammable gases (class C), flammable liquids (class B), or cooking-related fires (class F).
Standard fire extinguishers such as water, foam, wet chemicals, powder, and CO2 are likewise not suitable for extinguishing fires caused by lithium-ion batteries. Although they may momentarily control the flames, there’s a significant chance of re-ignition due to thermal runaway. That’s why it’s so important to know which type of fire extinguisher should be used to tackle specific fires. The best way to tackle lithium-ion battery fires is by using a specialised lithium fire extinguisher such as Defenders LFX range.
The Defender LFX fire extinguisher is designed to be compact and lightweight, making it simple to store. It is non-toxic, refillable, and eco-friendly. This extinguisher is highly effective at extinguishing intense fires, quickly lowering high temperatures, and preventing re-ignition. It is rapidly becoming the preferred choice for addressing lithium-ion battery fires, FAST! The Defender LFX fire extinguishers are available in three sizes: 3L, 6L, and 9L.
Our LFX range is an effective water-based extinguishing agent that is excellent at putting out flames. It has remarkable heat-absorbing properties that break down the chain reaction in thermal runaway and prevent other cells from heating. It effectively cools cells that have already ignited as well as those that are in thermal runaway that have not yet exploded. LFX also protects from secondary A-class fires, this allows the fire extinguisher to quickly tackle ‘peripheral’ fires that have been caused by the exploding lithium-ion batteries.
For added convenience and flexibility during emergencies, consider using the Defender lithium fire trolley to hold your LFX fire extinguisher. These trolleys provide a versatile and sturdy solution for improved fire safety, allowing you to create a mobile fire point tailored to your specific needs. Built to endure the rigorous demands of industrial settings, these compact and portable trolleys are an essential resource for fire safety wherever they are needed. Their robust design ensures durability even in the toughest conditions, while their mobility allows for quick deployment and easy navigation through standard door frames.
To improve fire safety at work or home, there are several straightforward measures you can take to manage fire risks and prevent battery-related fires.
As technology advances, our safety practices should evolve as well. Stay safe, stay informed, and take proactive measures to safeguard yourself and others from potential fire hazards.
For on-site fire safety solutions from Defender, reach out to our team by emailing sales@defender-systems.com.
