| Lithium-ion batteries have quickly become part of virtually every building: from e-bikes and tool batteries to home batteries, commercial energy storage, and charging cabinets. This creates a new fire scenario for building managers. A battery fire behaves differently from a regular fire: heat can travel from cell to cell, there is a risk of re-ignition, and traditional extinguishing agents are often not designed to reach the source of the problem.
In this lecture, we translate technology into practical choices for building management. We explain what thermal runaway is, why Battery Management Systems are important, but also why monitoring alone is not always sufficient. Next, we demonstrate how a Direct Low Pressure (DLP) system can protect battery modules locally: a thermal detection line is placed in or above the battery module and brings FireBlock Lithium Gel directly to the source when abnormal heat or flames occur. In this way, the approach focuses not on extinguishing remaining embers, but on early and targeted intervention. Next, we move to practical applications: home and business battery systems, battery cabinets, and the charging cabinets we develop for safe charging and storage. Finally, we discuss what this means for existing fire extinguishing equipment in buildings. The 2-, 6-, and 9-liter FireBlock extinguishers offer building managers a broader range of applications than many traditional extinguishers, including battery fire extinguishing, with less collateral damage and a more sustainable profile. Participants go home with a clear checklist: where battery risks are located, which preventive measures are needed, when automatic suppression makes sense, and how to build a fire extinguisher replacement plan that aligns with the electrification of buildings. |
