Topic: New Flammability Test Method

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Introduction:

The push toward electric mobility and the refinement of emerging technologies are enabling one of the biggest shifts in transportation since the development of ICE. While batteries can produce reliable power for EV propulsion, they can also generate significant heat during both discharge and recharge. Controlling and containing this heat build-up while meeting the performance requirements of designers has also increased attention in the efficient testing of possible new materials for battery packs, a costly and lengthy process.

Key Outcomes:

In this case, the final result of SAE’s publication of Amanda’s paper on the new test method effectively and efficiently communicated the benefits of small-scale testing to a focused audience, including:

• Better cost outcome
• Shorter time consideration
•  Ability to test at different pressures
• Advanced evaluations of material performance
• Early identification of issues to improve materials
• Quantification of material improvements

Challenge:

At Hyundai, Amanda was part of an effort to design a next-generation battery enclosure that would meet the latest requirements. This work led to the development of an intermediate thermal runaway test method that could be used early in the design process to screen potential battery-pack materials under representative thermal runaway conditions. Amanda’s challenge was how to disseminate information on the new test to be evaluated by the industry.

Solution:

Using her research and inspiration, Amanda began writing a technical paper on the subject. At the SAE WCX industry event in Detroit in 2022, she presented a technical paper titled Development of a New Flammability Test Method: Enabling Material-Level Evaluation of Polymeric Materials for Electric Vehicle Battery Enclosures. Surprisingly, according to Amanda, the feedback was rapid and positive.

Impact:

Amanda Nummy’s work adds to the efforts of others who have impacted the mobility industry for the better. A focus on continuous improvements in technology and products means that future mobility scenarios can go in many directions. Engineers like Amanda can have a direct influence over what these changes may look like, and publishing technical papers through SAE can help accelerate these efforts.