12 February 2025 | Unitemp

Safeguarding Battery Performance: Testing for Extreme Conditions

As the UK’s electric vehicle (EV) market expands rapidly, the importance of testing lithium-ion batteries under extreme conditions has never been greater. Battery safety, performance, and reliability are paramount as these power sources are used in EVs, renewable energy systems, and consumer electronics. ESPEC environmental test chambers for battery testing, available in the UK through Unitemp, are vital tools in ensuring these standards are met.

The Importance of Environmental Testing

Environmental testing replicates real-world conditions, such as extreme temperatures, humidity, and thermal stress, to evaluate battery performance and safety. For instance, lithium-ion batteries perform best around 20°C (68°F), but real-world conditions often expose them to extreme heat or cold, which can degrade performance and lead to dangerous failures like thermal runaway.

These tests are particularly crucial as EV batteries grow larger and more energy-dense. Rigorous testing ensures compliance with international safety standards (UL, IEC, SAE, and UN), reducing risks associated with short circuits, temperature cycling, and even intentional thermal abuse.

Mitigating Risks Through Advanced Testing

Failures in testing are sometimes necessary to identify a battery’s limits. However, these failures can result in hazardous outcomes like explosions, fires, or toxic gas emissions. That’s why ESPEC’s battery test chambers integrate safety features, including:

Gas monitoring systems to detect harmful emissions.

Fire suppression mechanisms for controlled testing environments.

Pressure relief systems to handle potential explosions safely.

These features ensure safety for operators and compliance with industry standards.

A UK Market Perspective

In 2023, falling prices for lithium (an 80% drop from its 2022 peak) and battery components like LFP (lithium iron phosphate) chemistries contributed to a 16% reduction in battery cell costs. This market shift reflects the growing adoption of advanced chemistries such as sodium-ion and silicon-rich anodes, offering opportunities for UK manufacturers to develop safer, lower-cost batteries.

As the UK works to secure a leading role in EV production, environmental testing is an essential component of maintaining competitiveness and aligning with European trends in battery safety and innovation.

Other Press Releases from Unitemp

27/2/2025 - The Value of an ESPEC Environmental Test Chamber: Why Quality Matters When investing in an environmental test chamber, the initial cost is often a significant factor for many businesses, but the decision shouldn’t be driven solely by upfront costs.

06/2/2025 - Unitemp's Rental Chambers Provide Resilient Support Amid Economic Challenges. In a year marked by economic hardships, businesses have cautiously approached capital spending, hitting the brakes on various fronts.

04/2/2025 - The Crucial Role of Rapid Rate Temperature Change Testing with Environmental Chambers Rapid Temperature Change Testing, using Environmental Test Chambers, involves subjecting products to swift and extreme temperature fluctuations, providing a simulation of real-world harsh environments to gauge the performance of products and materials.

19/12/2024 - Unitemp Achieves ISO 14001 Accreditation for Environmental Excellence Unitemp, a leading supplier of state-of-the-art ESPEC environmental and climatic test chambers, proudly announces its successful attainment of the ISO 14001 certification.

04/12/2024 - ESPEC Enhances AR Series Environmental Stress Chamber With Eco-Operation Function In response to the recent surge in energy prices and growing environmental concerns, ESPEC, a leading provider of environmental test chambers, is proud to announce the enhancement of its AR Series test chambers with an innovative eco-operation function.