Charging Cabinets and Storage for Lithium Batteries (WAAK)

Purpose

At every workstation in WAAK’s Kuurne facility, employees use electric tools such as drills, sanders, grinders, and saws, which need to be charged overnight. Since these devices operate on lithium-ion batteries, it is crucial to store and charge them safely.

Why is lithium battery storage a concern?
Li-Ion batteries pose a fire hazard due to the risk of thermal runaway, a chain reaction triggered by:

• Internal short circuits
• Overcharging or overheating
• Physical damage

Because these batteries store a large amount of energy in their cells, they present a high fire risk if not handled correctly.

Our charging and storage cabinets provide a safe and compliant solution, minimizing risks while ensuring an efficient charging process.

Problem-solution

To ensure the safe charging and storage of electric tool batteries, CGK installed six fire-resistant lithium cabinets inside WAAK’s facility in Kuurne. These specialized cabinets protect against fire hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries, ensuring both safety and efficiency in the workplace.

Key Features of the Lithium Charging Cabinets

• 400V Charging System with 24 charging points per cabinet
• Optional timer function, allowing staged charging (e.g., first charging the top batteries before the bottom ones, optimizing battery health)
• Double doors with electromagnetic locks to keep them open when needed
• Door contact sensors to ensure they are securely closed

Advanced Safety Measures

• Temperature control & forced ventilation to prevent overheating
• Explosion protection via an overpressure vent in the cabinet’s roof
   • The vent contains a filter mat to capture dispersed lithium particles
   • A gas exhaust system removes toxic hydrogen fluoride gas in case of an incident
• Built-in lithium fire suppression system
   • Fire suppression units release a specialized extinguishing powder inside the cabinet
   • Fine mist is distributed over the products via ventilation grilles

Intelligent Monitoring & Control

• Integrated Siemens processor for full automation
• Real-time monitoring of parameters such as:
   ✔ Ventilation
   ✔ Door status
   ✔ Visual & audio alarms

Plug & Play Convenience

• Pre-installed on a stable base, making them easy to relocate if needed
• Delivered fully assembled—the customer simply needed to plug them in, and they were ready for use

Result: A Safe & Efficient Lithium Battery Charging Solution

With these fireproof lithium charging cabinets, WAAK now has:

• A fully secure storage & charging system
• Minimized fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries
• A convenient, plug-and-play solution that required minimal setup

This project showcases CGK’s expertise in fire-safe lithium storage, ensuring both compliance and workplace safety. 🔋🔥✅