Battery Heat Testing

The SPH series industrial ovens from ESPEC are suited for heat-stress testing of batteries, as required by IEC, UL, and SAE standards. These ovens include safety features in the event of catastrophic battery failure.

Thermal tests required by lithium-ion battery product standards:

• IEC 62133 - Short circuit test at 55°C 
• IEC 62133 - Mold stress relief test at 70°C 
• IEC 62133 - Thermal abuse: ramp at 5°C/m to 130°C 
• UL 2054 - Mold stress relief test at 70°C 
• UL 2054 - Heating test: 5°C/m to 150°C 
• UL 1642 - Short circuit test at 60°C 
• UL 1642 - Heating test: 5°C/m to 150°C 
• SAE J2464 - Thermal stability: Increasing temperature in 5°C increments 

Note that heat-up rate required for some tests is dependent on the capabilities of the oven and the mass-load of batteries being tested

Safety features for potential explosive conditions include:

Low temperature heaters
High-mass "sheathed" heaters are used to heat the oven without a glowing-hot element that could ignite any flammable gases released from a failing battery.

Safety explosion vent
A blow-out panel in the ceiling allows ventilation if an explosion occurs. The door latch locks securely to avoid popping open, if such an event occurred. Even if the operator accidentally turns on the power when door is unlocked, the door lock detection switch prevents the oven from starting.

In case an explosion occurs inside the test chamber, as shown in this figure, insulation material is bent and blown upward together with the aluminum plate to the metal screen at the top of the chamber. In this way the explosion is safely channeled and released through the top metal screen. For our '402' size, the explosion is released through the top metal screen by bending insulation material on the rear wall.

Safety Oven Features

• Explosion vent and safety door for security
• Single action lever door with lock detection to prevent operation with the door open
• Stainless steel interior
• Exclusive ESPEC controller with large LED display
  • Two-step programmability with functions for automatic start, stop, ramp, and repeat
  • Visual and audible alarm with diagnostic fault code
• Two-step programmability with functions for automatic start, stop, ramp, and repeat
• Four-tiered safety system for overheat conditions
• Two shelves included standard, rated for 40 lbs. or more
• Exhaust damper for ventilating oven and fast cool-down

Flammables or materials containing them can be subjected to drying (heat treatment) with this chamber. However, to avoid explosion, ventilate the chamber well and use the chamber below the explosive limit. See the brochure and/or manual for further information including proper operation and acceptable inflammables & combustible gases.