Safety Risks Drop as Altech Deploys Explosion-Proof Batteries in Industrial Sites
Altech has detailed its Sodium Nickel Chloride (SNC) battery technology designed specifically for hazardous explosive environments, highlighting superior safety, longevity, and minimal maintenance compared to traditional battery chemistries.
- SNC batteries eliminate explosion risks with solid-state electrolyte
- Over 20 years float life and 5,000+ cycles with minimal capacity loss
- Certified to UL1973, UL9540A, CE, RoHS; further certifications underway
- Designed for EX & ATEX zones in oil, gas, chemical, and industrial sectors
- Major grid-scale projects underway in Germany with 120 MWh capacity
A Safer Alternative for Hazardous Environments
Altech’s latest announcement spotlights its Sodium Nickel Chloride (SNC) batteries, engineered to meet the stringent safety demands of explosive atmospheres such as EX and ATEX zones. Unlike lithium-ion batteries, which pose fire and explosion risks due to thermal runaway and flammable electrolytes, SNC batteries utilize a solid-state ceramic electrolyte that is inherently fireproof and non-flammable. This fundamental chemistry shift eliminates the need for costly explosion-proof housings and reduces insurance premiums, a significant advantage in high-risk sectors like oil and gas, petrochemicals, and chemical processing.
Longevity and Low Maintenance Drive Cost Efficiency
Beyond safety, SNC batteries offer remarkable operational benefits. With a float life exceeding 20 years and demonstrated service evidence from installations in South Africa, these batteries promise up to 5,000 charge cycles while retaining over 80% capacity. Their sealed, pressure-tight design requires minimal maintenance; no regular capacity cycling, visual inspections, or impedance checks are necessary. This contrasts sharply with nickel-cadmium and lead-acid batteries, which demand frequent upkeep and have shorter lifespans, thereby driving up total cost of ownership.
Robust Certification and Rigorous Safety Testing
Altech’s SNC batteries have secured multiple certifications including UL1973, UL9540A, CE, RoHS, and ISO9001, with additional approvals from ABS, DNV, and IEC pending. The batteries have undergone extensive safety tests simulating extreme conditions such as gasoline fires at 850°C, bullet impacts, saltwater immersion, and overcharge events. In all scenarios, the batteries maintained structural integrity without explosion or hazardous emissions, underscoring their suitability for critical infrastructure applications.
Scaling Up for Grid and Industrial Applications
Looking ahead, Altech is advancing large-scale energy storage projects, including a 120 MWh SNC battery installation in Saxony, Germany, and 1 MWh CERENERGY grid packs. These developments aim to address the growing demand for safe, reliable, and long-lasting energy storage solutions in grid-scale and industrial contexts. The partnership with IKTS Fraunhofer Germany to upscale the ceramic cell design further signals Altech’s commitment to innovation and market expansion.
Positioning in a Competitive Battery Landscape
While lithium-ion batteries dominate many sectors, their limitations in hazardous environments create a niche for SNC technology. Altech’s offering balances safety, durability, and environmental considerations, boasting 100% recyclability and a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to lithium-ion alternatives. This positions SNC batteries as a compelling choice for industries where safety cannot be compromised and operational continuity is critical.
Bottom Line?
Altech’s SNC batteries could redefine energy storage safety standards in explosive environments, with upcoming projects set to prove their market viability.
Questions in the middle?
- When will the Saxony 120 MWh project reach commercial operation?
- How will Altech’s SNC batteries compete on cost against lithium-ion in broader markets?
- What independent validations exist to corroborate Altech’s safety and longevity claims?
