DNV GL, the industry risk management provider, has delivered a report making recommendations for increased battery safety on board electrified sea vessels.
Produced in collaboration with marine authorities, battery manufacturers, system integrators, shipyards and shipowners, as well as suppliers of fire extinguisher systems, the report has taken input from stakeholders in the USA, Denmark and Norway, and examines the risk of explosions and fire, as well as looking at extinguishing systems.
Research conducted for the report shows how fire behaves when it is enclosed in a battery compartment, the gases that are released in such an event, and how effective different fire extinguishing systems are in tackling such fires. One of the key findings of the report was the fact that ventilation systems alone may not be enough to prevent the accumulation of harmful gases that can cause further combustion. The report goes on to recommend a new model for determining the correct size and type ventilation required depending on the battery installation and its location, and the importance of gas detection, as well as fire detectors for quick response.
“Batteries on board ships are both environmentally friendly and cost-effective solutions that we wish to see more of in the future. This project has been important in learning the risks of these systems and using the new insight to improve safety requirements,” said Lars Alvestad, acting director of the Norwegian Maritime Authority.