Freudenberg Sealing Technologies Boosts EV Battery Testing Capabilities in North America

Freudenberg Sealing Technologies has stepped up its game in the field of electric vehicle (EV) battery testing by expanding its R&D laboratories in North America. The company has added a state-of-the-art battery testing facility to its headquarters in Plymouth, Michigan. This new lab will enhance Freudenberg’s existing testing capabilities for batteries, H2 electrolyzers, and fuel cells, and will contribute to the development of EVs.

With the increasing popularity of EVs, it is crucial for vehicle manufacturers to address challenges such as range, power, safety, and charging times. One solution to improve EV performance is the use of lithium-ion batteries with higher energy and power densities. However, these batteries can generate high heat and pressure during use. To tackle this issue, Freudenberg’s new laboratory will allow engineers to observe and analyze thermal runaway and other events in real-time. The data collected from these tests will be used to further enhance research and development activities.

The newly expanded laboratory features two robust steel test chambers, each measuring 8 x 8 x 8ft (2.4 x 2.4 x 2.4m). These chambers have been specially designed by explosives experts to withstand thermal events in single cells, modules, and battery packs up to 25kWh. Equipped with multiple video cameras and data acquisition systems, the test chambers can capture data at a rate of over 60 data points per second. This allows the company to evaluate various operating conditions, including thermal runaway caused by battery punctures, overheating, and overcharging.

Chad Bauer, Senior Vice President of Technology and Innovation at Freudenberg Sealing Technologies, expressed his excitement about the new battery laboratory. He stated, ‘This battery laboratory will provide valuable insights and data for designing solutions for EV products. Our expertise in material development for fire and thermal applications, which dates back more than 20 years, will be instrumental in advancing EV technology.’

As the demand for EVs continues to rise, it is essential for companies like Freudenberg Sealing Technologies to invest in cutting-edge facilities and technologies. The addition of the battery testing facility in Plymouth, Michigan, demonstrates the company’s commitment to staying at the forefront of EV innovation. With this new laboratory, Freudenberg aims to contribute to the development of safer, more efficient, and high-performance EVs.

For more information on battery and powertrain testing, click [here](https://www.automotivetestingtechnologyinternational.com/news/battery-powertrain-testing/freudenberg-sealing-technologies-enhances-ev-battery-testing-capabilities-in-north-america.html).