BIRMINGHAM, Mich.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--INFICON, one of the world's leading developers of leak-detection equipment for the auto industry, has released a white paper on the importance of leak testing electric-vehicle (EV) battery systems.
“Electric Cars: Requirements and Leak Testing Methods for Assuring Quality” notes that batteries are critical-wear parts on electric vehicles and also are potentially dangerous.
“The market for electric vehicles is expanding,” says Thomas Parker, INFICON’s North American automotive sales manager. “But to maintain a positive reputation for EVs, it is critically important for automakers to not only offer extended driving ranges and short charging times, but also safe, high-quality drive technology. Leak testing is key to achieving quality throughout the production process from battery cell manufacture to vehicle assembly.”
Parker points out that in today’s “new age” of electromobility, most consumers are not prepared to spend significant amounts of money to replace a traction battery after a few years of use. And they definitely do not want their vehicle to catch fire.
“Auto manufacturers and suppliers need to incorporate suitable leak-detection processes into their production operations,” the INFICON executive explains. “Battery-cell electrolytes must never be allowed to escape or come into contact with water or humidity. That sort of leak can create a ‘thermal runaway’ and cause an explosion or a fire that can reach up to 1,100 degrees Centigrade.”
INFICON’s white paper summarizes EV leak testing requirements, describes appropriate leak detection methods and shows how to select the correct test methodology for specific applications. It also points out pitfalls to avoid when leak testing of electric-vehicle components.
“Testing for component leaks that might allow water to come into contact with battery-cell electrolytes at any time during the production process is especially important,” Parker concludes. “Water is like Kryptonite for today’s EV battery.”
ABOUT INFICON
INFICON is one of the world's leading developers, producers and suppliers of instruments and devices for leak detection in air conditioning, refrigeration and automotive manufacturing. The company has manufacturing facilities in Europe, China and the United States, as well as sales and service offices throughout the world.
More information about INFICON automotive technology is available online at www.inficonautomotive.com.
