Addresses Hazardous Material Regs for Li and Li-Ion

Zarges, Inc., released its latest product – the BatterySafe case – on 28 October, addressing the US Department of Transportation Hazardous Material Regulations (HMR; 49 C.F.R., Parts 171-180), which stipulate lithium batteries to be a hazardous material.

The company already offers a range of aluminium cases appropriate for the transport and storage of Lithium (Li) or Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) batteries that are properly packaged and intact. BatterySafe now extends that same level of protection to batteries that are damaged or defective – articles that hitherto have posed serious challenges due to the potential for fire, electric shock or chemical burns. Leveraging the characteristics of the classic K470 transit case, BatterySafe comprises an aluminium case with a custom CIRRUX lining, containing an intumescent fibreglass material, UN-approved for transport of hazardous goods.

The case has been successfully tested with up to three batteries, each measuring 814Wh. The test proved that the case suppressed ignition, extinguished flames and reduced thermal transfer, keeping exterior temperatures under 100°C and neighbouring batteries intact.

BatterySafe offers all the available features of the standard K470 cases, including secure latches, stacking corners, three fully-welded aluminium profile frames, and is easy to load and unload. It is appropriate for a variety of uses, including defence contractors standardising battery management, vehicle battery development, medical equipment and drones. The case will initially be
available in one size, with additional sizes and custom options available soon.

“Storing and transporting damaged Lithium-Ion batteries has posed great difficulty up to this point,” commented the company’s General Manager, Olaf Klutke. “We are pleased to be able to offer a proven solution to this dangerous issue.”