By Mark Smith 07/10/2024

Under: Fire Safety

Put Out Lithium Fires with our Latest Innovative Extinguisher

In recent years, lithium-ion batteries have become a common feature in various everyday products and devices. Their widespread application spans across numerous electronic items, such as cordless tools, site tools, and electric plant and vehicles. The increasing reliance on lithium-ion batteries can be attributed to their reliable energy output and the added convenience of being rechargeable. However, along with the increased use comes an increase of lithium-ion battery fire incidents.

How common is a lithium-ion battery fire?

Research from business insurer QBE indicates that UK fire services responded to 46% more fires associated with lithium-ion batteries in 2023 compared to the previous year, 2022.

As a result of this research, QBE is advocating for enhanced safety measures regarding lithium-ion batteries, as the fires they ignite behave differently than conventional fires.

Enfield Safety believe that prioritising everyone’s safety is essential! This is why it is important to educate employees and the general public on identifying the indicators of potential lithium-related fires and to promote measures that prevent these fires from occurring.

Why do lithium batteries catch fire? 

Lithium batteries can catch fire primarily due to thermal runaway. This happens when the battery overheats, which may result from manufacturing flaws, physical damage, or incorrect charging practices. As the temperature increases, the chemical reactions inside the battery speed up, generating even more heat and potentially resulting in a fire or explosion.

Fires may also arise if the internal parts of a battery get damaged. If conductive materials connect the positive and negative terminals, a short circuit can occur, generating significant heat and increasing the risk of a fire.

Overcharging a lithium battery beyond its charging limits can result in overheating and raise the likelihood of thermal runaway. Furthermore, exposure to high temperatures or flames can weaken the battery's structure and potentially trigger a fire.

How to recognise the signs of an impending lithium-ion battery fire

On a visual inspection, the battery may appear swollen, and exhibit signs of discolouration or blistering.

The battery may feel extremely hot to touch, or be emitting an unusual noise or smoke. If you recognise these signs the battery may be on the verge of exploding.

How to extinguish a lithium-ion battery fire, FAST and Safely! 

The best fire extinguisher to use on a lithium-ion battery fire is a specialist extinguisher developed exclusively to deal with the dangerous and violent flames from a lithium-related fire.

The recently launched Defender LFX fire extinguisher is engineered specifically to address lithium-ion battery fires. Beyond its primary function of combating fire risks, the LFX fluorine-free extinguisher also provides protection against secondary A-class fires resulting from battery explosions. 

How do standard lithium metal fire extinguishers work? 

A lithium metal fire extinguisher operates in the following ways:

1. Dry chemical agents: Numerous lithium fire extinguishers utilise dry powder substances, such as sodium bicarbonate or powders tailored for lithium, to suffocate the flames and disrupt the chemical processes fuelling the fire.

2. Class D extinguisher agents: These agents are specially formulated for fires involving metals, including lithium. They can absorb heat and create a protective barrier over the burning material, effectively blocking oxygen from reaching the fire.

3. Cooling effect: Extinguishing agents provide a cooling effect, lowering the temperature of the battery and nearby materials to help stop any further combustion.

4. Non-Conductive: Because water can conduct electricity and worsen a fire involving a lithium battery, it's essential to use non-conductive agents.

What does Defender LFX do differently?

Defender's LFX extinguisher has an effective water-based extinguishing agent that is excellent at putting out flames. It has remarkable heat-absorbing properties that break down the chain reaction in thermal runaway and prevent other cells from heating. It effectively cools cells that have already ignited as well as those that are in thermal runaway that have not yet exploded. LFX also protects from secondary A-class fires, this allows the fire extinguisher to quickly tackle peripheral fires that have been caused by the exploding lithium-ion batteries. 

The Defender LFX fire extinguisher is compact and lightweight, making it easy to store. It’s non-toxic, refillable, and environmentally friendly. The extinguisher effectively puts out raging fires, rapidly reduces high temperatures, and helps stop re-ignition. This innovative product is quickly becoming the go-to extinguisher to tackle lithium-ion battery fires, FAST! The Defender LFX fire extinguishers come in three different sizes; 3L, 6L and 9-litre options. 

For extra convenience and flexibility in emergency situations, consider utilising the Defender lithium fire trolley to store your LFX fire extinguisher. Defender fire trolleys offer a versatile and robust solution for enhanced fire safety, designed to create a mobile fire point that can be tailored to meet specific client requirements. Built to withstand the tough demands of industrial environments, these compact, portable trolleys provide an essential fire safety resource wherever needed. Their durable design ensures long-lasting performance, even in the harshest conditions, while their mobility allows quick and easy deployment and the ability to fit through a single standard door frame.

Why do conventional fire extinguishers not work effectively? 

Traditional fire extinguishers like water, foam, wet chemicals, powder, and CO2 are not effective for putting out lithium-ion battery fires. While they might briefly suppress the flames, the risk of re-ignition is high because of thermal runaway. The only effective solution for this kind of fire is a specialised lithium fire extinguisher. 

How to prevent a lithium battery fire

To enhance fire safety in the workplace or at home, there are some simple safety measures that can be followed to manage fire hazards and avoid battery fires.

1. Ensure that LFX fire extinguishers are positioned nearby, allowing for quick access in the event of a fire.

2. Only buy batteries and chargers from a reputable manufacturer. Cheaper imitations may have not passed UK safety standards.

3. Shield batteries from extreme temperatures and humid environments.

4. Inspect batteries for signs of damage after every charge.

5. Install fire and smoke alarms for early detection of fire.

As technology continues to evolve, so too must our approach to safety. Stay safe, stay informed, and take proactive steps to protect yourself and those around you from potential fire threats.

For on-site fire safety solutions by Defender, contact our team on 0333 003 5710 or email sales@defender-systems.com.