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 Thermoelectrical analysis of a cell shows current density and temperature distribution. |
February 2004
NREL's energy storage team developed the first-ever process for analyzing the thermal performance of batteries and cells using the thermoelectrical approach. In this process, the physical details of a cell or battery are captured in a finite element modeling software that can analyze the electrical and thermal behavior of components and materials. Researchers used their knowledge of geometry and material properties and resistances to calculate heat generated and temperature distributions. They use this analysis on selected cell designs to evaluate the thermal performance at baseline and of proposed new cell designs, which are expected to be less expensive.
This new process is useful for finding the hot spots in cells, including nonelectrochemical components under transient and steady-state high power profiles. Researchers applied the approach to two generations of Saft cells, identified the shortcomings of the baseline design, and made suggestions for improving the thermal performance of next generation cells. A draft report was sent to DOE and Saft program managers for review. Saft feedback was very complimentary and suggested that the approach and recommendations could be used in future generations of its cells.
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