In a bid to reduce carbon emissions, countries around the world have been increasing their investment in clean energy, highlighting the importance of energy storage systems (ESS) in green power generation. There are two applications that enable ESS to increase the integrity of clean power generation: Automatic Frequency Control (AFC) and Fast Response load-shedding Resource (FRR). Along with the development of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) towards voltages up to 1500V and power ratings over 4MW as defined in the specification, the tests are divided into managing system devices, testing battery cabinet controllers, battery modules, battery cabinets, and container-type ESS 5 phases.

When using a BESS, thermal runaway in the battery is a hazard that cannot be overlooked. In addition to public hazard, negligence of quality assurance can cause extra maintenance effort, inefficient service, damaged professional reputation, and loss of competitiveness for energy storage system manufacturers. Harnessing practical experience in energy storage system testing, Chroma found that testing on the battery cabinet is the most cost-effective test method to detect key problems accurately.

Chroma 17040/17040E Regenerative Battery Pack Test Systems address developments in high voltage demands of energy storage systems, providing 1700V charge and discharge capability suitable for energy storage system applications. They are capable of performing compliance tests for the widely used IEC62620 standard, including discharge performance, charging (capacity) retention and recovery, battery and its internal resistance, and endurance. The systems can also be applied to testing charging overvoltage and overcurrent to the IEC62619 standard as well as DUT preparation, to assess the potential risk of thermal runaway in energy storage systems.

In the product verification process, the power state under the power grid’s Automatic Frequency Control (AFC) can be imported into the charging and discharging equipment for grid modulation testing. Combining with the BMS communication function, the tester can detect design defects in the cell balancing of each string in the battery cabinet.

Poorly balanced battery cabinets are easily tripped due to rapid charging and discharging, and run an increased risk of overcharging a single battery. So, how does one scan the potential risks of battery use in the energy storage cabinet? By simulating the battery cabinet’s frequency modulation and matching the cabinet’s charge and discharge behavior with the power modulation system, the tester can inspect voltage changes in the battery cells of each string during the frequency modulation process. In this way, quality defects in the battery cabinet assembly and battery cell welding can be detected to avoid battery overcharge and overdischarge, and drastically reduce the risk of thermal runaway.

▲Chroma 17040E Regenerative Battery Pack Test System

Chroma has been actively developing power battery test solutions to provide top-quality solutions for battery cells, battery modules and battery packs. For detailed product solutions, please visit the Chroma website and leave your inquiry and contact information, we will be happy to be of service!