Sinopec pilots metal-based fire suppression system for EV batteries in Nanning

Sinopec launched a pilot deployment of a metal-based lithium-ion battery fire suppression system at its Xinyang integrated energy station in Nanning, southern China's Guangxi, on Tuesday, expanding its fire protection offerings for electric vehicle charging and energy storage facilities. 

According to Sinopec, the system is the first of its kind deployed in China and can extinguish an EV battery fire in seven minutes.

Developed independently by Sinopec Research Institute of Safety Engineering Co. Ltd, the system is part of the "Yixiaodun" fire protection product line offered by Sinopec Guangxi Oil Products Company. It addresses the risk of reignition after visible flames have been extinguished, a key challenge in lithium-ion battery firefighting.

The system uses a water-soluble, metal-based extinguishing agent designed to interrupt combustion reactions and form a heat-insulating barrier. A targeted spray arrangement directs the agent at the battery pack from below, helping it reach the source of the fire.

The equipment is also designed to connect to existing fire protection systems without extensive modifications, potentially reducing upgrade costs for charging facilities. Demonstrations at the launch included lithium-ion battery fires alongside fuel and fabric fires.

The system has undergone testing and verification by the Tianjin Fire Science and Technology Research Institute of MEM. It is available in several configurations for different settings. Skid-mounted units serve large charging and energy storage sites, while mobile units are intended for smaller facilities, including residential charging areas. Portable units are designed for early-stage lithium-ion battery fires in homes, vehicles and offices.

Sinopec said data from the Nanning pilot deployment could help improve the national and industry standards for lithium-ion battery fire protection equipment.