Frequently asked questions
What types of testing can Qdot LLC perform?
Overheat to runaway via thin film heaters which allow great flexibility in testing cells as installed in modules or battery assemblies with minimal disruption to the battery structure.
Overcharge cells or battery modules to validate the effects of protection circuits or assess the potential consequences.
Nail Penetration testing to develop meaningful data for analysis of thermal runaway insulation without pre-heating.
Overdischarge / Recharge testing can be a useful failure mode to assess the capabilities of protective (BMU) circuitry and to understand the chemical response of the cell to overdischarge abuse conditions.
Hot, high current discharge testing can show weak points in battery designs, especially for products intended for use in hot environments.
Short Circuits of cells, bus bars, and battery modules to demonstrate the performance of current limitation devices or the intrinsic tolerance of the cell technology.
Immersion testing of modules and batteries in fresh and salt water to determine immediate and longer-term effects of water intrusion.
Drop and Impact testing of large lithium batteries can pose hazards for many testing labs. At Qdot LLC we have the expertise to manage hazards and perform these tests easily and safely.
What kinds of data can Qdot LLC collect during a test?
Voltage, Temperature, Pressure vs time at 5 Hz / 16 bit depth
Video, still images, Thermal imagery
Gas composition (by remote capture and off-site EPA-certified analytical lab)
What is your team’s experience?
The principals at Qdot have over 11 years experience planning and conducting thermal runaway tests of lithium-ion and lithium metal cells and batteries. They have provided hazard assessments for the products of many domestic and international suppliers to a large American aviation manufacturer, and have been significant contributors to the DO-227A and DO-311A safety standards especially in the new thermal runaway sections.