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Why is lithium ion dangerous and how do you package it safely?

The name lithium-ion battery may not mean much to you. Yet you encounter them daily and, in fact, they have become almost indispensable in our lives. For example, they are found in everyday consumer electronics such as smartphones, tablets and laptops. Li-ion batteries can also be found in larger sizes, for example in e-bikes, electric cars, forklifts, medical equipment and generators.

Did you know that using these batteries not only has advantages, but also risks? For example, when it comes to transportation. Lithium batteries use several chemical processes to ensure maximum performance. One of the risks is that a battery may overheat during charging and catch fire.

To ensure safe use, laws and regulations have been changed. I am happy to tell you more about this in this article.

What is the danger of lithium-ion batteries?

Fire hazard, as I mentioned earlier, is one of the main dangers of li-ion batteries or accumulators. The battery housing is usually compact, with little to no room for ventilation. This can cause the battery to overheat. In the worst case, this leads to spontaneous combustion. Fortunately, many devices today have software that intervenes when overheating is imminent.

Rijen van glimmende lithium-ion batterijen in een strakke close-up, benadrukt hun uniforme en industriële ontwerp.

UN certificate: transport of li-ion batteries

Because of the increasing popularity of this type of battery, laws and regulations are also evolving. After all, the safety of both manufacturers and end users must be guaranteed. Therefore, certain hazardous materials may only be transported if they have a UN certification. Similarly, there are UN certificates for transporting li-ion batteries and accumulators. Transport companies may refuse shipments if they do not meet these requirements, and this is becoming increasingly common.

Plastic and aluminum custom packaging with UN certification

You can come to Faes for customized packaging solutions for transporting hazardous (liquid) substances, such as li-ion. These solutions – such as plastic cases from our SKB 3i series – are of course provided with a UN certificate.

The 3i Series cases are high-quality plastic cases that are fitted with a custom interior. This interior is completely tailored to your products and mode of transport. SKB 3i cases are durable, airtight, waterproof and resistant to corrosion and impact damage.

We also have packaging solutions available in aluminum versions suitable for transporting hazardous liquids. Our aluminum boxes from the Defender series are available with UN certification.

Also looking for safe, UN-certified packaging?

My colleagues and I would be happy to tell you more about it and help you out! Ask your question in the form below or contact us directly.

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Michel Prins

Michel Prins

Accountmanager Safety & Security

Michel Prins is Account Manager at Faes and a specialist in Safety & Security. Thanks to his background at the Ministry of Defense and years of experience in the sector, he advises organizations on reliable packaging solutions for critical applications. He combines practical knowledge with technical expertise to package sensitive equipment safely and efficiently.

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