WALLENIUS Wilhelmsen has said there is increasing concern among shipping lines around the increasing demand for electric vehicles.
Battery fires can be particularly dangerous, as lithium-ion batteries generate extreme heat when they malfunction, often reaching temperatures of 800 degrees Celsius or higher. This heat can quickly spread to nearby combustible materials, causing a rapid fire that’s challenging to extinguish.
According to Wallenius Wilhelmsen there are several causes of battery fires, including internal short circuits, external impacts and dendrites.
While the failure rate of lithium-ion batteries is relatively low, the increasing use of uncertified batteries and devices is raising concerns about the potential risks.
Wallenius Wilhelmsen senior manager biofouling, cargo and stability said he does not see self-starting fires related to battery failures during transportation as a major concern, as charging does not take place during voyages.
“Keep in mind, all batteries have to undergo a comprehensive stress test before mounted into a vehicle,” he said.
says Kim Helge Brynjulfsen, senior manager biofouling, cargo and stability who does not see self-starting fires related to battery failures during transportation as a major concern as there are no charging taking place during voyages.
Onboard ro-ro vessels, where thousands of cars are stowed close together, the consequences of a battery fire can be particularly dangerous. In 2022, the Felicity Ace vessel caught fire, capsized and sank with 4000 cars on board. While it is unclear whether the fire started in an electric vehicle, the incident highlights the potential dangers of battery fires onboard vessels.
Wallenius Wilhelmsen senior quality manager, ports, terminals and stevedoring Henrik Meyer said controlling lithium-ion battery fires are almost impossible, once the fire catches on to nearby vehicles their frames melt and the work to extinguish is extremely challenging.
“While there are regulations and best practices in place to mitigate the risks, the unpredictability of battery malfunctions and the potential for catastrophic consequences underscore the need for continued vigilance and innovation in handling these vehicles on board vessels,” Mr Meyer said..
