SafeQuip is proud to announce the launch of its newly developed range of high-performance, multi-use lithium-ion battery fire blankets. These blankets are specifically designed to address fires involving devices with lithium-ion batteries, providing a crucial tool for safety in environments where these batteries are in use.

Developed by AVD Fire Ltd, the new fire blankets are engineered to withstand extremely high temperatures in an oxidising atmosphere for prolonged periods. They are robust enough to provide protection against potential debris and shrapnel expelled during a battery fire, ensuring comprehensive safety.

Understanding Lithium-Ion Battery Fires

Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in various devices, from smartphones and laptops to electric vehicles and energy storage systems. While these batteries are generally safe, they can pose significant fire risks under certain conditions, such as physical damage, manufacturing defects, or exposure to extreme temperatures. 

Lithium-ion battery fires are particularly challenging to control due to their ability to burn at very high temperatures, often exceeding 1000°C, and the potential for re-ignition even after the initial flames have been extinguished.

What are fire blankets?

The principle behind the fire blanket – smothering the fire to cut off its oxygen supply – has been understood and utilised in various forms for centuries. Fire blankets offer an effective and easy-to-use solution for various fires, making them a versatile tool for kitchens, garages, and workplaces. They are beneficial due to their simplicity, leaving no mess, and their portability. However, not all fire blankets are created equal, especially when it comes to lithium-ion battery fires. Here’s why:

1. Limited Temperature Resistance: Ordinary fire blankets typically have a maximum temperature resistance of around 550°C. While this is sufficient for many household fires, it falls short when dealing with higher-temperature fires such as those involving lithium-ion batteries. In these scenarios, the blanket may not withstand the heat, potentially igniting or deteriorating, rendering it ineffective.

2. Material Limitations: Many ordinary fire blankets are made from woven fiberglass, which, while fire-resistant, may not be robust enough for lithium-ion battery fires. The blankets may tear, disintegrate, or fail to suppress the fire adequately, leading to a spread rather than containment of the flames.

4. Durability and Reusability: Ordinary fire blankets are often designed for one-time use and may not withstand multiple deployments. The material can become brittle or damaged after the first use, reducing its effectiveness in subsequent applications. 

5. Inadequate for Specific Fire Types: Lithium-ion battery fires pose unique challenges that ordinary fire blankets are not equipped to handle. They can produce explosive reactions and toxic gases. 

6. Ease of Use and Accessibility: In emergency situations, the ease of deploying a fire blanket is critical. Some ordinary fire blankets are not user-friendly, requiring significant effort to remove from their packaging and deploy correctly. In a high-stress situation, such as a lithium-ion battery fire, this can lead to delays and improper use.

7. Lack of Specialised Features: Advanced fire blankets designed for specific applications such as lithium-ion battery fires often include features such as reinforced edges, handling loops, and eyelets for tethering. These features improve the usability and effectiveness of the blanket in various situations. Ordinary fire blankets, lacking these enhancements, may not perform as well in more demanding environments.

Benefits of the AVD Fire range of blankets 

The AVD Fire range of blankets are manufactured using fire-resistant technical fabrics based on the highest temperature-resistant silica glass fibres. These fibres are enhanced with flame deflection protection and abrasion resistance through a variety of proprietary surface coatings. The non-flammable, vermiculite dispersion mineral-coated glass fabric is overlaid with a sacrificial protective silicone layer to provide optimal performance.

Key Features of the high-performance fire blanket:

• Material: Constructed from fireproof technical fabric with a fire-resistant coating.
• Edge Lining: Reinforced multi-layered edge lining for enhanced durability.
• Eyelets: Equipped with eyelets for easy tethering or suspending.
• Stitching: Utilises fire-resistant industrial stitching for added strength.
• Handling: Includes handling loops on all corners for convenient use.
• Multi-Use: Designed for multiple uses without compromising safety.

Temperature Resistance:

·No rupture of the fabric after several hours at 1000°C

·No rupture of the fabric after 30 minutes at 1200°C

·Fabric becomes brittle after 30 minutes at 1300°C to 1500°C

Advantages of the fire blanket

Sometimes, it is not about extinguishing the fire but rather containing it to prevent it from spreading. The specially designed AVD Lith-Ex blankets available from SafeQuip can withstand temperatures up to 1400°C for extended periods, making them ideal for covering a burning lithium-ion battery and allowing it to burn safely underneath the blanket. These blankets contain the flames, control the burn, prevent flying debris, and ensure the fire does not propagate to other areas.

The AVD Lith-Ex fire blanket, alongside the Lith-Ex fire extinguisher range, provides a simple and effective solution. While extinguishing the fire is crucial, in some instances, containing the spread of the fire is a better solution to prevent further damage and hazards.