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DIRECTED ENERGY PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY

Abstract: 25-Systems-117

UNCLASSIFIED, PUBLIC RELEASE

High Power Airborne HEL Battery Safety Testing

This paper presents the results of safety testing of a solution for a high energy dense battery specifically for Airborne High Energy laser (HEL) applications. The solution presented represents 513 KW/Kg Power Density. Based on silicon anode NMC chemistry, a power cell with high specific energy was utilized to address the size and weight restrictions of Airborne HEL applications while meeting or exceeding the Air Worthiness and Safety requirements.

The primary objective of this paper is to present Ravensafe’s capability to design and produce a safe and reliable battery that is higher power density and safer than others on the market. Key topics include:
• Mechanical and electrical performance objectives.
• Safety Requirements.
• Safety Testing results.

A battery solution derived from existing Ravensafe Energy Storage and ALE Cell designs is presented. The high voltage and high power battery is based on a high-power and energy dense pack developed under an Air Force SBIR (Topic AFX236-DPCS01-SBIR D2P2) and prior NASA contracts.

The test article construction is described including;
• Fabrication, assembly and insulation techniques.
• Instrumentation.
• Test Set Up.

Several techniques are explored to trigger Thermal Run-away including thermal abuse and overcharge.

The sizing of the enclosure and vents to contain the battery modules is described. This includes a venting system whereby each sub-module can vent into the enclosure free space. By-products of thermal runaway are combined and ducted out of the enclosure through an exhaust port to be subsequently ducted to a safe place.

Results of thermal runaway test are presented including both internal and external temperatures, gas flow, and post-test inspections.

UNCLASSIFIED, PUBLIC RELEASE