Battery storage boxes

[raylo32]

I know, I am sure this has discussed many times but the search function here for any way I can frame it finds far too many unrelated threads to sort through. What are you guys using for safe storage of your super shark packs? I have 2 in an old Sears lowboy steel toolbox for now but it is probably not enough protection, especially for 2 of them at once. I have seen people using steel ammo cans but those seem similar to my toolbox. Amazon has BATT-SAFE brand but reviews are mixed and they look to be thin metal. So what works and what doesn't? In my case I am in a townhome so there is no off structure option.... except in a plastic rear deck shed which would see temperature and humidity extremes, which can't be good.

 

[2old]

I wondered the same thing and was going to start a thread. Amazon has a plethora of bags that are reputed (by the manufacturer) to be safe in containing a Li fire, but they seem too flimsy to contain a paper fire. For now, an ammo can (stored outside which you can't do) seems the best option if you don't have a fireplace or large grill.

 

[raylo32]

Sure, I have a grill but it also lives outside in the heat, cold and humidity. it is covered, at least. But those other environmental conditions can't be good.

One thing I learned listening to Luke on the podcast linked elsewhere here on ES was the role that humidity plays in the process. He was talking about how when you are done riding the battery is warm and if it is in a high dew point environment condensation can develop internally as it cools and eventually cause salt bridging and short circuits... and fires. Seems to me bringing them into a drier controlled environment to cool would be helpful. Which is what I always have done. But if you are out riding hard and then stop for lunch outside on a high dewpoint day, there might be a chance that the battery cools below that dewpoint. That would probably take a good long time, however.

 

[E-HP]

There's a tall version of a .50 cal ammo box that would fit those batteries. You need to remove the seal to allow the box to vent in case something goes wrong with the packs. I use the regular size for storing lipos.

 

[raylo32]

Are those ammo boxes any more robust than my steel tool box? Could probably add protection to either by lining them with plumbers torch fire shield pads.

 

[E-HP]

Are those ammo boxes any more robust than my steel tool box? Could probably add protection to either by lining them with plumbers torch fire shield pads.

What type of robustness are you concerned with? Lithium fires burn at around 750F/400C, so won't melt a steel ammo box. Removal of the gasket is to relieve the pressure, similar to the vents on the BATT-SAFE boxes.

 

[AmericanElectricSolutions]

Harbor Freight .50 cal ammo cans are indeed great. They are also somewhat water insulated due to them being made with that rubber gasket between the lid and the can, so it at least protects from humidity.

I'be built quite a few batteries in those cans, they're cheap and reliable.

 

[lnanek]

People claim you should remove the gasket, since burning batteries make gas, which when it builds up, can make a metal box into a grenade, basically. Many DIYers even drill extra holes and slap flame arrestors on:

Flame Arrestor Battery Charging Station - Ammo Box

The goal was to create a portable charging station that could contain a lipo fire and also prevent the fire from spreading while minimizing ...

imadethisdesign.blogspot.com

 

[amberwolf]

You don't need to remove the gasket, just use something that can vent if necessary. As simple as a hole with a rubber plug that can be pushed out by sufficient internal pressure, which will happen long before rupture pressure of the steel can occur.

Some people have used goretex valves, etc..

If you have any wiring holes in the casing it will vent there most likely anyway.

 

[docw009]

I put mine inside stacked cinderblacks, and place a patio paver on top. They won't take all batteries, but I can get the small 52 cell Hailongs into the cavity,They're also not waterproof. so be careful if you put it outdoors.

Actually, I think a brick enclosure, using mortar would be the best, I look at the cinder blocks as a delaying tactic.

 

[Eastwood]

One thing I learned listening to Luke on the podcast

Do you by chance have a link to that podcast? I’ve heard the episodes on YouTube, but there’s only a handful of them.

 

[E-HP]

Do you by chance have a link to that podcast? I’ve heard the episodes on YouTube, but there’s only a handful of them.

Wheel-E Podcast: Guest Luke Workman, Eurobike 2023, FUELL Flluid-2, more

The Wheel-E Podcast returns for another episode covering all of the latest news and reviews in the world of e-bikes, e-motos and more.

electrek.co

as posted on this thread:

Luke Workman ON the Wheel-E Podcast

Today, Mr Workman, with fascinating (to me) information about batteries, discussed them on electrek's podcast.

endless-sphere.com

 

[2old]

Fortunately (or not depending on one's perspective) I'm in socal, so humidity isn't a problem most of the time, and use ammo cans that are ventilated.

 

[Diggs]

BTW - I stumbled across these metal storage cases on Ebay. Good size for a decent price. I picked one up for my battery testing and storage. Thought I'd pass it on to others that may be interested.