Does NFPA 855 permit alternative fire suppression systems?

NFPA 855 also permits the use of alternative fire suppression systems if they successfully pass large-scale fire testing in accordance with Underwriters Laboratories (UL) 9540A, “Test Method for Evaluating Thermal Runaway Fire Propagation in Battery Energy Storage Systems,” or an equivalent standard.

Can a lithium-ion battery energy storage system detect a fire?

Since December 2019, Siemens has been offering a VdS-certified fire detection concept for stationary lithium-ion battery energy storage systems.* Through Siemens research with multiple lithium-ion battery manufacturers, the FDA unit has proven to detect a pending battery fire event up to 5 times faster than competitive detection technologies.

What are the standards for ESS fire suppression systems?

Two commonly referenced standards for ESS fire suppression systems are FM Global Data Sheet (FM DS) 5-33 and NFPA 855. In the event of thermal runaway, it is essential to rapidly cool the affected module and its surroundings to prevent a chain reaction of battery fires.

Why are Li-ion batteries a fire suppression agent?

Li-Ion battery cells are densely stored in their packs making it hard for a fire suppression agent to reach the fire. The production of oxygen during electrolyte decomposition supports the chemical processes that occur during a fire.

How long should a LFP battery be separated from a combustible object?

For LFP batteries with sprinkler protection, the minimum separation is 0.9 m (3 ft.) from non-combustible objects and 1.5 m (5 ft.) from combustible objects. The discharge duration must be at least 90 minutes.