Why Do Lithium Batteries Explode?

Safety, Quality and What You Need to Know

Lithium batteries are an essential part of modern energy storage, powering everything from e-bikes to off-grid solar systems. However, they’ve also become the subject of significant misconceptions, especially when it comes to safety. Headlines about battery fires and explosions can be alarming, but understanding the science and engineering behind lithium batteries can help separate fact from fiction. 

Why Do Lithium Batteries Explode? 

When lithium batteries fail catastrophically, the cause is often rooted in design or manufacturing issues. Fires typically occur due to thermal runaway, a process where excessive heat leads to a chain reaction that can ignite the battery’s materials. This can result from overcharging, over-discharging, physical damage, or internal short circuits. Poor-quality components, improper assembly, or a lack of adequate safety mechanisms significantly increase these risks. 

Not All Lithium Batteries Are Created Equal 

There are many types of lithium battery chemistries, each with its own strengths and safety profiles. One of the most commonly used is Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO₄), known for its stability and safety. However, not all LiFePO₄ batteries are equally safe. 

The key to a stable and reliable lithium battery lies in balanced chemistry—maintaining the right proportions of lithium, iron, and phosphate. Some manufacturers tweak these ratios to achieve higher energy density or power output, but this can make the battery unstable and prone to failure. 

The Critical Role of the BMS 

Even with top-quality cells, a lithium battery’s safety and lifespan depend heavily on its Battery Management System (BMS). The BMS is the brain of the battery, responsible for monitoring and managing critical parameters like voltage, current, and temperature. A high-quality BMS provides essential protections, including: 

• Over-charging protection 

• Over-discharging protection 

• Temperature protection 

• Current equalization 

• Over-current protection 

• Short-circuit protection 

• Secondary decoupling 

Without a robust BMS, even the best cells can fail prematurely, reducing the battery’s design life and increasing safety risks. 

Addressing the Myths Around Lithium Battery Safety 

Images of e-bike fires and exploding batteries dominate the news, but it’s important to dig deeper into the root causes. These incidents are almost always tied to poor build quality, substandard BMS components, or both. Bargain-bin batteries often sacrifice quality for cost, cutting corners on safety features and manufacturing standards. 

The Benefits of Lithium Batteries and Choosing Wisely 

Lithium batteries offer tremendous benefits, including high energy density, long cycle life, and fast charging. To ensure safety and reliability, it’s critical to buy from a reputable brand that prioritises quality. Look for batteries equipped with robust BMS protection and designed with balanced chemistry. 

At Valen, we offer a range of high-quality lithium batteries, with BMS as standard, tailored for diverse applications: 

• The ENLiFeN range, designed for robust performance and long-term reliability. 

• The WeCo range, featuring rack-mount and stackable solutions for scalable energy storage. 

A Final Word 

The world of lithium batteries can be complex, but safety doesn’t have to be a gamble. By choosing well-engineered batteries like Valen’s, you can minimise risks, protect your investment, and ensure the safety of your team. Remember, when it comes to lithium batteries, cut price often means cut corners—and that’s a risk you can’t afford to take. 

If you’re still unsure about lithium batteries, reach out to Valen Power who have non-lithium energy storage options available too. Contact the Valen team to discuss your next project!