Energy storage cabinet and energy storage system

Abstract

The invention provides an energy storage cabinet and an energy storage system, and belongs to the technical field of energy storage. The energy storage cabinet comprises a box body, a plurality of battery packs and an explosion venting plate; a first partition plate is arranged in the box body to divide the box body into a battery bin and an explosion venting bin, and the battery bin and the explosion venting bin are adjacently arranged in the length direction of the box body; the plurality of battery packs are positioned in the battery compartment; the first partition plate is provided with an explosion venting opening, the explosion venting plate covers the explosion venting opening, and the battery bin and the explosion venting bin are communicated when the explosion venting plate is opened; a vent hole is formed in the box body and used for communicating the outside of the box body with the explosion venting bin. When high-pressure combustible gas accumulation is caused by abnormal working conditions such as thermal runaway of a battery pack in the battery bin, the explosion venting plate can be automatically opened under the preset pressure threshold value, so that the high-pressure combustible gas is guided into the explosion venting bin through the explosion venting opening and is discharged to the external environment through the vent hole, the explosion risk caused by high-pressure combustible gas accumulation is avoided, and the safety of the battery pack is improved. And the safety of the energy storage cabinet and surrounding facilities and personnel is ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of energy storage technology, and in particular to an energy storage cabinet and an energy storage system. Background Technology

[0002] With the large-scale application of new energy power generation, electrochemical energy storage has been widely promoted. As an important carrier of electrochemical energy storage systems, energy storage cabinets are highly favored due to their high degree of modularity and ease of transportation and installation. Energy storage cabinets can effectively solve problems related to energy storage and energy supply.

[0003] Inside the energy storage cabinet, the battery pack, as the core unit for energy storage, may experience thermal runaway when encountering abnormal operating conditions such as overcharging, short circuits, mechanical damage, or thermal management failure, releasing a large amount of flammable gas in a short period of time. The accumulation of these gases in the confined space can easily trigger an explosion, not only damaging the energy storage cabinet structure but also posing a serious threat to the safety of surrounding equipment and personnel. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides an energy storage cabinet and energy storage system that can export high-temperature and high-pressure gas generated by thermal runaway of the battery pack, preventing the gas from accumulating in a confined space and causing an explosion.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the embodiments of this application adopt the following technical solutions:

[0006] In a first aspect, this application provides an energy storage cabinet, including a housing, multiple battery packs, and an explosion venting plate; a first partition is provided inside the housing to separate the battery compartment and the explosion venting compartment inside the housing, the battery compartment and the explosion venting compartment being arranged adjacent to each other along the length of the housing; the battery compartment contains multiple battery packs; the first partition has an explosion vent, the explosion venting plate covers the explosion vent, and when the explosion venting plate is opened, it connects the battery compartment and the explosion venting compartment; the housing has a vent for connecting the outside of the housing to the explosion venting compartment.

[0007] In the energy storage cabinet structure, a first partition divides the cabinet into two independent spaces: a battery compartment for housing the battery pack and a dedicated explosion vent compartment for pressure relief. The first partition also features an explosion vent with an openable explosion vent plate at each vent. When high-pressure flammable gas accumulates in the battery compartment due to abnormal conditions such as thermal runaway of the battery pack, the explosion vent plate opens, directing the high-pressure gas into the explosion vent compartment, and then venting it to the outside through vents on the cabinet. This effectively reduces the risk of explosions caused by the accumulation of flammable gas in a confined space, ensuring the safety of the energy storage cabinet, surrounding equipment, and personnel. Furthermore, because the explosion venting process is confined to the independent explosion vent compartment, the impact range of gas combustion or eruption is effectively controlled, significantly reducing the risk of fire spread and shock wave hazards compared to traditional top-mounted explosion venting methods.

[0008] In one possible implementation, the enclosure includes a top wall with vents located in the area above the explosion vent chamber.

[0009] Because the high-temperature gas generated by thermal runaway has a low density, it will rise. By arranging the vents on the top wall of the enclosure above the explosion relief chamber, the physical property of the high-temperature gas rising naturally can be utilized to help the high-temperature gas to be discharged more smoothly, reducing the possibility of it remaining in the explosion relief chamber, thereby effectively improving the pressure relief efficiency.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the energy storage cabinet also includes multiple liquid cooling units; the multiple liquid cooling units are all located above the top wall of the cabinet in the height direction of the cabinet, and the multiple liquid cooling units are arranged along the length direction of the cabinet; each liquid cooling unit is used to dissipate heat for multiple battery packs; in the height direction of the cabinet, the multiple liquid cooling units do not overlap with the vents.

[0011] By combining a top-mounted liquid cooling unit with a lateral explosion venting structure, the liquid cooling unit located at the top of the enclosure can meet the heat dissipation requirements of the battery pack. Furthermore, the separation of the battery compartment and the explosion venting compartment via the first partition, along with the placement of the explosion vent and explosion vent plate, provides a dedicated channel for the lateral release of high-pressure gas in the event of thermal runaway. This layout ensures that heat dissipation and explosion venting functions do not interfere with each other. In particular, the staggered arrangement of the liquid cooling unit and the top vent effectively prevents the liquid cooling unit from obstructing the pressure relief path, resulting in smoother pressure relief.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the enclosure includes a bottom wall with vents located in the area below the explosion vent chamber.

[0013] In the early stages of thermal runaway of the battery pack, the pressure rises sharply. The vent holes on the bottom wall provide an additional pressure relief path, which disperses the load, alleviates the local pressure accumulation in the explosion relief chamber, thereby reducing the peak pressure and improving the reliability of the overall explosion relief system.

[0014] In one feasible approach, a fire-resistant mesh is also installed inside the energy storage cabinet, covering the ventilation holes located on the top or bottom wall.

[0015] Adding a flame arrestor mesh to the vents can effectively intercept sparks or tiny burning particles that may be generated during thermal runaway while ensuring smooth gas discharge. This significantly reduces the risk of sparks igniting surrounding equipment or the environment, effectively preventing secondary fires and enhancing the external safety of the energy storage cabinet under extreme operating conditions.

[0016] In one feasible approach, the fire-retardant mesh is made of 40-mesh stainless steel.

[0017] Stainless steel has excellent high temperature resistance and corrosion resistance, and can work stably for a long time in high temperature and high pressure environments and potentially corrosive gas environments caused by thermal runaway, ensuring the structural integrity of the fire arrestor mesh.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the enclosure further includes a power distribution compartment and an explosion venting compartment located on the same side of the battery compartment, and the power distribution compartment and the explosion venting compartment are arranged side by side along the width of the enclosure; the explosion venting compartment and the power distribution compartment are separated by a second partition.

[0019] Because the power distribution compartment and the explosion relief compartment are arranged side-by-side along the width of the enclosure, the width of the enclosure can be fully utilized, resulting in a more compact and integrated structure for the entire energy storage cabinet. Furthermore, the two are separated by a second partition made of fire-resistant material. In the event of an explosion, this second partition effectively blocks the high-temperature flames and intense heat radiation from the explosion relief compartment, preventing them from directly affecting the critical electrical equipment within the power distribution compartment and thus avoiding equipment failure due to overheating.

[0020] In one feasible manner, the explosion venting chamber has multiple side panels, one of which is a first partition, and the other side panels are fireproof boards.

[0021] By constructing all side panels of the explosion venting compartment, except for the first partition, with fire-resistant panels, the entire explosion venting compartment forms a highly fire-resistant, enclosed space. When the battery pack experiences thermal runaway, and high-temperature flames or projectiles breach the explosion venting panels and enter the explosion venting compartment, this fire-resistant enclosure structure effectively limits the outward spread of heat and flames, preventing them from affecting adjacent compartments, thereby significantly enhancing the fire isolation capability of the energy storage cabinet.

[0022] In one feasible approach, the first partition has multiple explosion vents, and the energy storage cabinet includes multiple explosion vents, with each explosion vent corresponding to a specific explosion vent. Each explosion vent is connected to the first partition at its corresponding explosion vent.

[0023] By using multiple small vents instead of a single large vent, the weakening of the first partition plate can be effectively reduced, ensuring the structural stability of the energy storage cabinet during transportation, installation, and normal operation. Simultaneously, the multiple vents and vent plates constitute a multi-layered venting system. Even if one vent plate fails to open due to mechanical malfunction in extreme circumstances, the remaining vent plates can still be activated, providing multiple safeguards for releasing internal pressure in the battery compartment and improving the reliability of the energy storage cabinet's venting function.

[0024] In one possible implementation, the energy storage cabinet also includes a drive assembly fixed within the battery compartment, the drive assembly being connected to at least one explosion relief plate; wherein the drive assembly is used to: control the explosion relief plate to open to connect the explosion relief compartment and the battery compartment.

[0025] By introducing an active pressure relief mechanism controlled by drive components, the explosion relief panel can be opened in advance before the pressure inside the battery compartment reaches the dangerous threshold, connecting the explosion relief compartment and the battery compartment to release the accumulated high-temperature gas in an orderly manner. Compared with the traditional explosion relief method that relies solely on passive opening due to overpressure, this active control pressure relief enhances the early intervention capability for thermal runaway conditions. It not only effectively weakens the impact intensity of potential explosions but also buys critical emergency response time for maintenance personnel, further improving the safety protection level of the energy storage cabinet under extreme operating conditions.

[0026] In one possible implementation, the energy storage cabinet also includes a resilient sealing ring that surrounds the explosion vent and is located between the explosion vent plate and the first partition plate, for sealing the explosion vent when the explosion vent plate is closed.

[0027] An elastic sealing ring is installed between the explosion vent plate and the first partition plate, surrounding the explosion vent. This not only ensures a reliable seal when the explosion vent plate is closed, effectively preventing external moisture, dust, and corrosive gases from entering the battery compartment through the explosion vent, thereby reducing the risk of battery pack short circuits caused by environmental pollutants and improving the long-term stability of the system; but also, the sealing ring has excellent compression and rebound characteristics, which can adapt to the slight deformation between the explosion vent plate and the first partition plate caused by manufacturing tolerances and mechanical vibrations, ensuring that the sealing performance remains stable under various operating conditions.

[0028] In one possible implementation, the first partition includes a plurality of sub-plates spaced apart along the width of the housing, the housing includes a plurality of uprights, and the plurality of sub-plates and the plurality of uprights are spaced apart and staggered along the width of the housing; wherein, the side of the uprights facing the battery compartment has a connecting portion, and the battery pack is connected to the connecting portion via a connector.

[0029] By designing the first partition as a composite structure that combines installation and partitioning functions, structural integration is achieved. This design eliminates the internal space occupied by separate battery racks and partitions in traditional solutions, thereby significantly improving space utilization and battery pack energy density within the same enclosure volume.

[0030] In one possible implementation, the enclosure includes two battery compartments; the explosion venting compartment and the power distribution compartment are located between the two battery compartments along the length of the enclosure, and the explosion venting compartment and the power distribution compartment are arranged side by side along the width of the enclosure; two first partitions are provided inside the enclosure to separate the explosion venting compartment and the two battery compartments, and each of the two first partitions is provided with an explosion venting plate.

[0031] By placing the explosion vent between the two battery compartments, regardless of which battery pack in the compartment experiences thermal runaway, the high-temperature, high-pressure gas can quickly reach the nearest explosion vent through a shorter path, effectively reducing flow resistance. Furthermore, this centrally located explosion vent forms a spatial isolation zone, which can, to some extent, prevent the thermal runaway event from spreading from one battery compartment to the other, reducing the risk of cascading failures of multiple battery packs.

[0032] In one possible implementation, the enclosure includes two explosion-proof compartments located at both ends of the enclosure along its length and adjacent to the battery compartment, respectively; the power distribution compartment and one of the explosion-proof compartments are arranged side by side along the width of the enclosure; two first partitions are provided inside the enclosure to separate the battery compartment and the two explosion-proof compartments, and each of the two first partitions is equipped with an explosion-proof plate.

[0033] By symmetrically arranging two explosion relief chambers on both sides of the battery compartment, dual-channel synchronous pressure relief can be achieved in the event of simultaneous thermal runaway of multiple battery packs, thus dispersing the discharge load and ensuring a stable and reliable explosion relief process. Furthermore, placing the main discharge paths at both ends of the enclosure helps to directly guide high-temperature gases to the outer area of ​​the equipment, reducing their thermal radiation impact on the core functional area in the middle of the enclosure.

[0034] Secondly, this application provides an energy storage system, including a power converter and an energy storage cabinet as described above, wherein the power converter is used to convert AC power input from an external AC power source into DC power output to the energy storage cabinet.

[0035] The energy storage system provided in this application includes the aforementioned energy storage cabinet. Therefore, the energy storage system provided in this application and the energy storage cabinet of the aforementioned technical solution can solve the same technical problems and have the same technical effects, which will not be elaborated here. Attached Figure Description

[0036] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an energy storage system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an energy storage cabinet provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the energy storage cabinet is shown;

[0039] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 Another cross-sectional view of the energy storage cabinet is shown;

[0040] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 Another cross-sectional view of the energy storage cabinet is shown;

[0041] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 Another cross-sectional view of the energy storage cabinet is shown;

[0042] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of another energy storage cabinet provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of another energy storage cabinet provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0044] Figure label:

[0045] 1-Energy storage system; 10-Energy storage cabinet; 20-Power converter; 100-Enclosure; 200-Battery pack; 300-Explosion relief plate; 400-Liquid cooling unit;

[0046] 500 - Fire-resistant mesh; 101 - First partition; C1 - Battery compartment; C2 - Explosion vent compartment; K - Vent hole; M - Explosion vent; 102 - Top wall; 103 - Bottom wall;

[0047] C3 - Distribution compartment; 104 - Second partition; 101a - Sub-panel; 105 - Column; B - Connection part. Detailed Implementation

[0048] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them.

[0049] In this application, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used only to distinguish different technical features or components, and do not indicate any priority or importance among these features, nor do they imply the number of technical features involved. Therefore, technical features described with "first," "second," etc., should be understood to include one or more.

[0050] In this application, unless otherwise expressly stated and limited, "multiple" means two or more.

[0051] Furthermore, in this application, the terms "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate that something is an example, illustration, or illustration. Any embodiment or design described as "exemplary" or "for example" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or designs. Specifically, the use of terms such as "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.

[0052] In the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of this application, in order to clearly express different structural elements, solid structures such as parts and components are represented by guide lines, openings and holes are represented by broken lines, and hollow structures such as spaces and cavities are identified by guide lines with arrows.

[0053] This application provides an energy storage system. Figure 1 An exemplary partial structure of an energy storage system is shown. The energy storage system 1 may include an energy storage cabinet 10 and a power converter 20. The energy storage cabinet 10 and the power converter 20 are electrically connected, for example, through a power line. The power converter 20 is used to convert AC power input from an external AC power source into DC power output to the energy storage cabinet 10.

[0054] In some examples, the power converter 20 may include a power conversion system (PCS), which consists of a DC / AC bidirectional converter, a control unit, etc., and can control the charging and discharging of the energy storage cabinet 10, and perform AC and DC conversion, etc. The energy storage cabinet 10 can be externally connected to the energy storage converter via power lines (one or more). In other examples, the power converter 20 may also be a transformer for step-up or step-down voltage conversion.

[0055] exist Figure 1 In the example shown, the power converter 20 is located outside the energy storage cabinet 10. In some other examples, the power converter 20 may also be located inside the energy storage cabinet 10, or the power converter 20 may be located at least partially inside the energy storage cabinet 10. This application does not impose specific restrictions on the location of the energy storage cabinet 10 and the power converter 20.

[0056] This application provides an energy storage cabinet. Figure 2 This is a structural schematic diagram of an energy storage cabinet provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the energy storage cabinet is shown, with reference to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The energy storage cabinet 10 may include a housing 100, for example, the housing 100 is a rectangular structure. The length direction of the housing 100 is the X direction, the width direction is the Y direction, and the height direction is the Z direction. The X, Y, and Z directions are perpendicular to each other.

[0057] The phrase "the X, Y and Z directions are perpendicular to each other" in this application is not limited to a strict 90° angle. In practical applications, there may be certain manufacturing or assembly errors. For example, any angle between 88° and 92° is considered to be approximately perpendicular.

[0058] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3As shown, a first partition 101 is provided inside the housing 100 of the energy storage cabinet 10. The first partition 101 extends along the width direction (Y direction) of the housing 100 and is used to divide the internal space of the housing 100 into a battery compartment C1 and an explosion relief compartment C2. The battery compartment C1 and the explosion relief compartment C2 are arranged adjacent to each other along the length direction (X direction) of the housing 100.

[0059] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, the energy storage cabinet 10 also includes multiple battery packs 200, which are located within the battery compartment C1 of the housing 100. These battery packs 200 serve as the core energy units of the energy storage cabinet 10, undertaking the main tasks of energy storage and charging / discharging.

[0060] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 Another cross-sectional view of the energy storage cabinet is shown, such as Figure 4 The first partition 101 in the housing 100 has an explosion vent M, such as Figure 3 The energy storage cabinet 10 also includes an explosion relief plate 300, which can cover the explosion relief port M and connect the battery compartment C1 and the explosion relief compartment C2 when the explosion relief plate 300 is opened.

[0061] The explosion vent M is an opening provided on the first partition 101, used to provide a channel for pressure release or flame diversion in the event of abnormal situations such as thermal runaway, fire, or explosion in the battery compartment C1. The explosion vent 300 can be made of a material with sufficient strength and capable of opening under a set pressure, such as stainless steel, engineering plastics, or other composite materials. During normal operation of the energy storage cabinet 10, the explosion vent 300 covers the explosion vent M, providing a sealing or isolation function and maintaining the independent functions of the battery compartment C1 and the explosion vent C2. When the internal pressure of the battery compartment C1 rises sharply (such as in the event of thermal runaway), the explosion vent 300 will automatically open at a preset pressure threshold to connect the battery compartment C1 and the explosion vent C2.

[0062] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 Another cross-sectional view of the energy storage cabinet is shown, such as... Figure 5 As shown, the enclosure 100 in the energy storage cabinet 10 also has a vent K, which is used to connect the explosion relief chamber C2 to the outside of the enclosure 100.

[0063] In this embodiment, by setting a first partition 101 inside the energy storage cabinet 10, the cabinet 100 is divided into a battery compartment C1 and an explosion relief compartment C2. An explosion relief port M and an explosion relief plate 300 covering the first partition 101 are configured. When the battery pack 200 in the battery compartment C1 encounters abnormal operating conditions (such as overcharging, short circuit, or thermal runaway) that cause high-pressure combustible gas to accumulate, the explosion relief plate 300 can open, allowing the high-pressure combustible gas to be laterally introduced into the explosion relief compartment C2 and discharged to the external environment through the vent K. This avoids the risk of explosion caused by the accumulation of high-pressure combustible gas and greatly protects the safety of the energy storage cabinet 10, its surrounding facilities, and personnel. At the same time, since the pressure relief process is confined to the independent explosion relief compartment C2, the combustion or eruption range of the high-pressure combustible gas is effectively constrained. Compared with the traditional top-mounted overall explosion relief method, the impact range of potential fires or shock waves is significantly reduced.

[0064] In this embodiment, the location of the vent K can be varied and can be flexibly adjusted according to the specific application scenario and structural layout. For ease of explanation, two optional implementation methods will be used as examples for illustrative purposes below.

[0065] In one example, such as Figure 5 As shown, the enclosure 100 in the energy storage cabinet 10 may include a top wall 102, wherein a vent K is provided on the top wall 102, for example, the vent K is provided on the top wall 102 in the area above the explosion relief chamber C2.

[0066] Because the high-temperature gas generated during thermal runaway has a low density and exhibits a clear upward trend, placing the vent K on the top wall 102 of the enclosure 100 above the explosion relief chamber C2 aligns with the natural convection direction of the gas. This allows the high-temperature gas to be quickly and smoothly discharged from the explosion relief chamber C2 to the outside of the enclosure 100, effectively reducing the possibility of its accumulation or backflow within the explosion relief chamber C2, thereby significantly improving depressurization efficiency. Simultaneously, the design of the top vent K ensures that the airflow is directly upward, which can reduce the lateral diffusion of the high-temperature gas to a certain extent, thus significantly reducing the risk of injury to surrounding personnel and further improving the safety of the energy storage cabinet 10 during operation.

[0067] In another example, such as Figure 5 As shown, the enclosure 100 in the energy storage cabinet 10 may also include a bottom wall 103. Ventilation holes K may be provided on both the top wall 102 and the bottom wall 103 of the enclosure 100. The ventilation holes K are located above and below the explosion relief chamber C2, respectively.

[0068] When the battery pack 200 experiences thermal runaway, the pressure inside the housing 100 rises rapidly. In the initial overpressure phase, the high-pressure gas can be discharged upwards to the outside through the vent K on the top wall 102 of the housing 100, and downwards through the vent K on the bottom wall 103, forming a multi-directional pressure relief channel. This bidirectional venting helps to accelerate the pressure relief speed, reduce the instantaneous pressure peak in the explosion relief chamber C2, and further improve the explosion relief efficiency of the energy storage cabinet 10.

[0069] Multiple battery packs 200 continuously dissipate heat during charging and discharging. To effectively control their operating temperature and ensure system safety and performance, in some embodiments, such as... Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown, multiple liquid cooling units 400 can be configured in the energy storage cabinet 10. The liquid cooling unit 400 is a thermal management system that uses a circulating coolant (such as water or ethylene glycol solution) to dissipate heat from the battery pack 200, and typically includes components such as pumps, heat exchangers, piping, and control systems.

[0070] like Figure 5 As shown, in the height direction (Z direction) of the housing 100, multiple liquid cooling units 400 are installed above the top wall 102 of the housing 100, and the multiple liquid cooling units 400 are arranged along the length direction (X direction) of the housing 100.

[0071] In related technologies, to address the risk of thermal runaway of the battery pack 200, a pressure relief plate is typically installed on the top of the enclosure 100 of the energy storage cabinet 10. When the internal pressure of the enclosure 100 exceeds a set threshold, the pressure relief plate can quickly open to release the internal pressure, thereby ensuring the safety of the main structure of the energy storage cabinet 10. However, after arranging multiple liquid cooling units 400 on the top of the enclosure 100 of the energy storage cabinet 10, the space at the top of the enclosure 100 is occupied, making it difficult to implement the traditional top pressure relief structure.

[0072] In this embodiment, the heat dissipation requirements of the battery pack 200 are met by arranging multiple liquid cooling units 400 on top of the housing 100. Simultaneously, the housing 100 is divided into a battery compartment C1 and a venting compartment C2 by a first partition 101, and a venting port M and a venting plate 300 are provided to achieve lateral venting. When the battery pack 200 experiences thermal runaway and the pressure inside the battery compartment C1 rises sharply, the venting plate 300 can open, allowing high-temperature, high-pressure gas to be laterally introduced into the venting compartment C2 and discharged to the outside of the housing 100 through the vent K, effectively preventing gas accumulation in the confined space and subsequent explosion. Thus, the structural requirements for efficient heat dissipation of the high-energy-density energy storage system are met, while ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery pack 200 under thermal runaway conditions.

[0073] In this embodiment, the multiple liquid cooling units 400 do not overlap with the vent K in the height direction (Z direction) of the housing 100. In other words, the projections of the liquid cooling units 400 and the vent K do not overlap in the plane perpendicular to the height direction (Z direction) of the housing 100. This avoids the multiple liquid cooling units 400 from blocking the vent K, ensuring that the high-pressure gas generated by the thermal runaway of the battery pack 200 can be smoothly discharged from the vent K.

[0074] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, a fire-resistant mesh 500 is also installed inside the energy storage cabinet 10, which covers the ventilation holes K located on the top wall 102 or the bottom wall 103.

[0075] Under normal circumstances, when the battery pack 200 in the energy storage cabinet 10 experiences thermal runaway, it will not only produce high-temperature fumes but also generate sparks. If these high-temperature sparks are directly discharged into the external environment through the vent K, they may ignite surrounding flammable materials or cause secondary disasters.

[0076] In this embodiment of the application, by installing a flame arrestor 500 at the vent K, it is possible to effectively prevent sparks from spreading outward without obstructing gas flow, allowing only filtered high-temperature gas to be emitted, thereby significantly reducing the safety threat to the external environment and personnel, as well as the occurrence of secondary disasters.

[0077] For example, the fire-retardant mesh 500 can be a mesh structure made of stainless steel or ceramic materials. Of course, in addition to the mesh structure made of the above materials, the fire-retardant mesh 500 can also be other porous media structures with fire-retardant functions, such as ceramic honeycomb, metal foam or composite flame-retardant fiber layers, as long as it can effectively intercept sparks generated during thermal runaway while allowing high-temperature gas to pass through to achieve pressure relief. This application does not specifically limit this.

[0078] For example, the mesh count of flame arrestor 500 ranges from 20 to 100 meshes; for instance, the mesh count of flame arrestor 500 can be 40, 60, or 80. Mesh count typically indicates the number of holes per inch. A lower mesh count results in larger openings, stronger ventilation and pressure relief capabilities, but relatively weaker flame arrest capabilities; a higher mesh count results in smaller openings, blocking smaller sparks, but also increases resistance to gas flow. For example, a coarse 20-mesh mesh ensures rapid discharge of explosive gases, while a fine 100-mesh mesh effectively prevents most open flames from passing through. Thus, different mesh counts of flame arrestor 500 can be selected based on specific pressure relief requirements and the size of particles generated during thermal runaway of the battery pack 200 to achieve optimal safety protection.

[0079] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3As shown, the explosion relief chamber C2 can have multiple side plates, one of which is the first partition 101, and the other side plates are fireproof boards.

[0080] For example, the fireproof board is layered, including a first gypsum board and a second gypsum board on both sides, and a rock wool layer located between the first gypsum board and the second gypsum board. The rock wool layer fills the space between the first gypsum board and the second gypsum board and is bonded together by adhesive or mechanical fastening to form a fireproof board with fire-resistant and heat-insulating properties.

[0081] By using the aforementioned layered fireproof panels as all side panels in the explosion relief chamber C2, except for the first partition 101, the explosion relief chamber C2 forms a fire-resistant enclosure structure. When flames and high-temperature projectiles generated by the thermal runaway of the battery pack 200 break through the explosion relief panel 300 and enter the explosion relief chamber C2, this structure can effectively prevent heat and flames from spreading to adjacent equipment, significantly improving the overall fire safety of the energy storage cabinet 10.

[0082] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the enclosure 100 in the energy storage cabinet 10 may also include a power distribution compartment C3. The power distribution compartment C3 and the explosion relief compartment C2 are located on the same side of the battery compartment C1, and the power distribution compartment C3 and the explosion relief compartment C2 are arranged side by side along the width (Y direction) of the enclosure 100.

[0083] The power distribution compartment C3 is used to house electrical equipment such as power distribution units and control modules. It is arranged on the same side of the battery compartment C1, along with the explosion venting compartment C2, and side-by-side along the width (Y-direction) of the enclosure 100. This layout makes full use of the width (Y-direction) of the enclosure 100, avoiding the space waste caused by placing the power distribution compartment C3 separately on other sides of the enclosure 100, resulting in a more compact and highly integrated structure for the entire energy storage cabinet 10.

[0084] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, the explosion relief compartment C2 and the power distribution compartment C3 are separated by a second partition 104. Since the power distribution compartment C3 and the explosion relief compartment C2 are arranged side by side along the width direction (Y direction) of the enclosure 100, and all the side panels surrounding the explosion relief compartment C2 except for the first partition 101 are fireproof boards, the second partition 104 is also a fireproof partition made of fireproof boards.

[0085] In this configuration, the explosion relief compartment C2, on the side adjacent to the power distribution compartment C3 along the width (Y direction) of the enclosure 100mm, also forms a reliable fire barrier. The power distribution compartment C3 houses the core electrical control and distribution equipment of the energy storage cabinet 10. Separating it from the high-risk explosion relief compartment C2 via the second partition 104 provides effective safety protection for these critical electrical devices. In the event of an explosion, the second partition 104 can directly withstand the impact of high-temperature flames and heat radiation, preventing the power distribution equipment from being ignited or damaged by high temperatures, thus avoiding potential escalation of the fault due to control system malfunction.

[0086] In one embodiment, combined with Figure 3 and Figure 4 The first partition 101 has multiple explosion vents M. The energy storage cabinet 10 includes multiple explosion vents 300. The multiple explosion vents 300 and the multiple explosion vents M correspond one-to-one. Each explosion vent 300 is connected to the first partition 101 at the corresponding explosion vent M.

[0087] In another embodiment, the first partition 101 may also be provided with only one explosion vent M, and the energy storage cabinet 10 shall accordingly include an explosion vent 300, which covers and is connected to the single explosion vent M.

[0088] On the first partition 101 of the same size, this embodiment of the application adopts a layout of multiple small explosion vents M. Compared with setting a single explosion vent M with a larger area, this reduces the weakening of the overall structural strength of the first partition 101, ensuring the structural stability of the energy storage cabinet 10 during transportation, installation, and long-term operation. Furthermore, the multiple explosion vents M and multiple explosion vent plates 300 together constitute a multi-layered explosion venting system. If one explosion vent plate 300 fails to open normally due to mechanical failure, the remaining explosion vent plates 300 can still activate in response to increased internal pressure, providing multiple safeguards for the timely release of internal pressure in the battery compartment C1, significantly improving the reliability of the explosion venting function of the energy storage cabinet 10 under emergency conditions such as thermal runaway.

[0089] In some embodiments, the energy storage cabinet 10 further includes a drive assembly (not shown) fixed within the battery compartment C1, the drive assembly being connected to at least one explosion relief plate 300; wherein the drive assembly is used to control the explosion relief plate 300 to open to connect the explosion relief compartment C2 and the battery compartment C1. For example, the drive assembly may be a motor, electromagnetic drive device, or other device capable of providing power output.

[0090] In some cases, when the monitoring system detects abnormal gas production in the battery pack 200 (such as early signs of thermal runaway) but the passive opening pressure threshold of the explosion relief plate 300 has not yet been reached, at least one explosion relief plate 300 can be proactively opened in advance by the drive component. This allows the flammable gas accumulated in the battery compartment C1 to be directed into the explosion relief compartment C2 and discharged to the external environment through the vent K. This proactive pressure relief mechanism can release internal gas in time before the pressure rises sharply, effectively reducing the impact force of the explosion. Compared to the explosion relief method that relies solely on passive triggering when the pressure threshold is exceeded, this significantly improves the early response capability of the energy storage cabinet 10 to thermal runaway events, while also providing valuable emergency response time for maintenance personnel, further ensuring the safety of equipment and personnel.

[0091] In some embodiments, the energy storage cabinet 10 further includes a resilient sealing ring surrounding the explosion vent M and located between the explosion vent plate 300 and the first partition plate 101, for sealing the explosion vent M when the explosion vent plate 300 is closed. For example, the resilient sealing ring is made of high-temperature resistant silicone or fluororubber.

[0092] The sealing barrier formed between the explosion vent plate 300 and the first partition plate 101 by the elastic sealing ring can, to a certain extent, prevent moisture, dust, and other corrosive gases from the external environment from entering the battery compartment C1 through the explosion vent M, reducing the risk of short circuit in the battery pack 200 and ensuring the long-term operational reliability of the energy storage cabinet 10. At the same time, the elastic sealing ring has good compression resilience, which can compensate for manufacturing or assembly errors between the explosion vent plate 300 and the first partition plate 101, maintaining a stable seal even under long-term vibration and other operating conditions.

[0093] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 Another cross-sectional view of the energy storage cabinet is shown. In one embodiment, the first partition 101 is a single flat plate. In another embodiment, as... Figure 6 As shown, the first partition 101 is not a single flat plate, but a modular structure. Specifically, the first partition 101 includes multiple sub-plates 101a arranged at intervals along the width direction (Y direction) of the housing 100. Each sub-plate 101a is provided with an explosion vent M and is covered by an explosion vent plate 300. The housing 100 also includes multiple uprights 105 arranged at intervals along the width direction (Y direction) of the housing 100. The multiple sub-plates 101a and the multiple uprights 105 are arranged alternately and at intervals along the width direction (Y direction) of the housing 100, together forming the partition separating the battery compartment C1 and the explosion vent compartment C2.

[0094] In some embodiments, such as Figure 6 As shown, the column 105 has a hollow structure inside and runs through the height direction (Z direction) of the housing 100. This hollow, through-type structure not only reduces the overall weight of the housing 100, but also facilitates the passage of wire harnesses or conduits.

[0095] In some embodiments, combined with Figure 5 and Figure 6 A connecting part B is provided on the side of the column 105 facing the battery compartment C1. The battery pack 200 is connected to the connecting part B by bolts, clips, or other connectors (not shown), thereby fixing it to the column 105. Through the above structure, the first partition 101 integrates the functions of load-bearing support, battery pack 200 fixation, and safety isolation, making the internal structure of the housing 100 more compact and stable.

[0096] In this embodiment, the functional zoning layout inside the enclosure 100 can be flexibly configured according to the capacity requirements, heat dissipation strategy, safety level, and on-site installation conditions of the energy storage system. To achieve higher energy density and better safety isolation, the enclosure 100 in the energy storage cabinet 10 can adopt various combinations of battery compartments C1, explosion venting compartments C2, and power distribution compartments C3. For ease of explanation, two optional implementation methods will be illustrated below.

[0097] For an alternative implementation method, please refer to... Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of another energy storage cabinet provided in an embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 7 As shown, the enclosure 100 in the energy storage cabinet 10 may include two battery compartments C1; along the length direction (X direction) of the enclosure 100, the explosion venting compartment C2 and the power distribution compartment C3 are both located between the two battery compartments C1, and the explosion venting compartment C2 and the power distribution compartment C3 are arranged side by side along the width direction (Y direction) of the enclosure 100. Correspondingly, two first partitions 101 are provided inside the enclosure 100, respectively located on both sides of the explosion venting compartment C2, for separating the explosion venting compartment C2 from the two battery compartments C1. Each of the two first partitions 101 is provided with an explosion vent M and a corresponding explosion vent plate 300.

[0098] By placing the explosion vent C2 between the two battery compartments C1, on the one hand, the flow path of high-temperature gas to the nearest explosion vent K is shortened when thermal runaway occurs in either battery pack 200 within battery compartment C1. This reduces flow resistance and ensures rapid explosion venting in the initial stage of pressure surge, significantly improving the timeliness and reliability of explosion venting. On the other hand, the central placement of the explosion vent C2 physically separates the two battery compartments C1, which can, to some extent, prevent the spread of thermal runaway from one battery compartment C1 to the other, reducing the risk of cascading thermal runaway of multiple battery packs 200.

[0099] For another alternative implementation, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 8 , Figure 8 This is a structural schematic diagram of another energy storage cabinet provided in the embodiments of this application, as shown below. Figure 8As shown, the enclosure 100 includes two explosion-proof compartments C2, located at both ends of the enclosure 100 along its length and adjacent to the battery compartment C1. The power distribution compartment C3 and one of the explosion-proof compartments C2 are arranged side-by-side along the width of the enclosure 100. Correspondingly, two first partitions 101 are provided inside the enclosure 100, located on both sides of the battery compartment C1, to separate the battery compartment C1 from the two explosion-proof compartments C2. Each of the two first partitions 101 has an explosion-proof port M and a corresponding explosion-proof plate 300.

[0100] By symmetrically arranging explosion relief chambers C2 on both sides of the battery compartment C1, when multiple battery packs 200 experience thermal runaway simultaneously, the two explosion relief chambers C2 can operate in parallel, sharing the discharge load. This effectively avoids the problem of insufficient discharge capacity that a single explosion relief chamber C2 might have under extreme conditions, ensuring that the system still has sufficient pressure relief capacity even under high-intensity thermal runaway conditions, thereby guaranteeing the reliability of the explosion relief process and the overall safety of the energy storage cabinet 10. Simultaneously, arranging the main discharge paths at both ends of the enclosure 100 helps to directly guide high-temperature gas to the external space of the equipment, minimizing the thermal impact on the central core area of ​​the enclosure 100 and further improving the system's safety performance.

[0101] In the description of this specification, specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0102] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An energy storage cabinet, characterized in that, The energy storage cabinet includes a housing, multiple battery packs, and an explosion relief plate; The enclosure is provided with a first partition for separating the battery compartment and the explosion venting compartment inside the enclosure. The battery compartment and the explosion venting compartment are arranged adjacent to each other along the length of the enclosure. The battery compartment contains the multiple battery packs. The first partition has an explosion vent, the explosion vent plate covers the explosion vent, and when the explosion vent plate is opened, it connects the battery compartment and the explosion vent chamber; the housing has a vent hole for connecting the outside of the housing to the explosion vent chamber.

2. The energy storage cabinet according to claim 1, characterized in that, The enclosure includes a top wall, which has the vent in the area above the explosion relief chamber.

3. The energy storage cabinet according to claim 2, characterized in that, The energy storage cabinet also includes multiple liquid cooling units; the multiple liquid cooling units are all located above the top wall of the cabinet in the height direction of the cabinet, and the multiple liquid cooling units are arranged along the length direction of the cabinet; each of the liquid cooling units is used to dissipate heat for the multiple battery packs; in the height direction of the cabinet, the multiple liquid cooling units do not overlap with the vent.

4. The energy storage cabinet according to claim 2, characterized in that, The enclosure includes a bottom wall, which has the vent hole located in the area below the explosion relief chamber.

5. The energy storage cabinet according to claim 4, characterized in that, The energy storage cabinet is also equipped with a fire-resistant mesh, which covers the ventilation holes located on the top wall or the bottom wall.

6. The energy storage cabinet according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The enclosure also includes a power distribution compartment, which and the explosion venting compartment are located on the same side of the battery compartment and are arranged side by side along the width of the enclosure. The explosion relief compartment and the power distribution compartment are separated by a second partition.

7. The energy storage cabinet according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The explosion relief chamber has multiple side panels, one of which is the first partition, and the other side panels are fireproof boards.

8. The energy storage cabinet according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The first partition has multiple explosion vents, and the energy storage cabinet includes multiple explosion vents. The multiple explosion vents and the multiple explosion vents correspond one-to-one, and each explosion vent is connected to the first partition at the corresponding explosion vent.

9. The energy storage cabinet according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The energy storage cabinet also includes a drive assembly fixed inside the battery compartment, and the drive assembly is connected to at least one of the explosion relief plates. The drive component is used to: control the explosion relief plate to open to connect the explosion relief chamber and the battery compartment.

10. The energy storage cabinet according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The energy storage cabinet also includes an elastic sealing ring, which surrounds the explosion vent and is located between the explosion vent plate and the first partition plate, for sealing the explosion vent when the explosion vent plate is closed.

11. The energy storage cabinet according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, The first partition includes a plurality of sub-plates spaced apart along the width direction of the housing. The housing includes a plurality of uprights. The plurality of sub-plates and the plurality of uprights are arranged alternately and spaced apart along the width direction of the housing. The uprights have a connecting portion on the side facing the battery compartment, and the battery pack is connected to the connecting portion via a connector.

12. The energy storage cabinet according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The enclosure includes two battery compartments; the explosion venting compartment and the power distribution compartment are both located between the two battery compartments along the length of the enclosure, and the explosion venting compartment and the power distribution compartment are arranged side by side along the width of the enclosure; The box is equipped with two first partitions to separate the explosion venting compartment and the two battery compartments. Each of the two first partitions is equipped with an explosion venting plate.

13. The energy storage cabinet according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The enclosure includes two explosion venting compartments, which are located at both ends of the enclosure along its length and are respectively adjacent to the battery compartment; the power distribution compartment and one of the explosion venting compartments are arranged side by side along the width of the enclosure. The box is equipped with two first partitions to separate the battery compartment and the two explosion venting compartments, and each of the two first partitions is equipped with an explosion venting plate.

14. An energy storage system, characterized in that, It includes a power converter and an energy storage cabinet as described in any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the power converter is used to convert AC power input from an external AC power source into DC power output to the energy storage cabinet.

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