Hanwha Aerospace and SK Enmove Introduce Safe Battery Technology for Ships

In partnership with SK Enmove, Hanwha Aerospace has introduced the world’s first immersion cooling energy storage system (ESS), marking a significant advancement in non-flammable battery technology. The announcement was made on September 10, 2024, during a technology briefing at the Hanwha Building in Seoul, where the companies showcased their solution for the ESS market.

This breakthrough technology utilizes liquid immersion cooling to prevent fires in energy storage systems, which could be applied in other battery-dependent sectors, including electric vehicles. 

Hanwha Aerospace’s newly developed immersion cooling energy storage system (ESS) utilizes advanced thermal fluid technology to fill lithium-ion battery modules, effectively isolating each cell. 

This design prevents thermal runaway from spreading, even if a single cell fails, and mitigates safety risks such as insulation failures caused by environmental factors like dust or salt. Compared to conventional air—and water-cooled ESS models, this system offers enhanced safety and has received certifications from major global institutions, including DNV and the Korean Register of Shipping, for its flagship model, SEAL.

“With decades of experience in ESS design and R&D, we have achieved industry-leading levels of safety,” stated Seung-Hyun Son, Head of the Energy Systems Center at Hanwha Aerospace. He stated that their immersion cooling ESS is poised to lead the next generation of energy storage solutions, ensuring optimal fire prevention. This is especially crucial for maritime applications, where safety standards are paramount.

SK Enmove, the partner responsible for thermal fluids in Hanwha Aerospace’s immersion cooling ESS, showcased its differentiated fluid technology during the event. “By leveraging SK Enmove’s world-class Group 3 base oil technology and unique additive formulations, we have maximized the non-flammable properties of the battery,” remarked Sang-Hyuk Seo, Head of e-Fluids B2B Business at SK Enmove.

He added that the company is not only targeting marine applications but also developing immersion cooling ESS for lanz-based sectors, including data centers and electric vehicles.

The technology, initially designed for energy storage systems in ships, is now being supplied to electric-powered vessels and is under demonstration tests conducted by the Korea Research Institute of Ships & Ocean Engineering. 

Hanwha Aerospace intends to utilize its extensive experience in providing energy storage systems (ESS) to public and maritime commercial vessels to establish itself as a leader in eco-friendly maritime solutions. The company is also focused on accelerating the development of a value chain in the eco-friendly ship sector, aligning its efforts with Hanwha Ocean’s maritime business initiatives. This strategy is designed to enhance the safety and sustainability of energy storage solutions in the maritime industry.

The immersion cooling ESS technology could enhance safety in hybrid and electric military vehicles, as current battery systems are notoriously challenging to extinguish if they catch fire.

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