Phoenix Testlab opens a new test laboratory for lithium-ion batteries

Phoenix Testlab GmbH based in Blomberg, Germany, invited political and business leaders to the grand opening of its new battery laboratory. The laboratory covers an area of approximately 950 square meters and is able to perform all thermal/climatic and corrosive tests. The types of lithium-ion systems that can be tested range from cells and modules to large EV batteries.

The testing systems have been individually adapted to the technical requirements of customers of this test service provider. As well as the sometimes considerable volume and weight parameters of test objects, climatic and electrical test requirements also have to be taken into account. High-performance units support the dynamic cycling of battery modules and even large battery systems. Of course, battery temperature control is also part of the test portfolio.

In the heart of the battery laboratory, the central control room, all test and safety-related data is compiled. From here, battery experts from the testing institute for the eastern North Rhine-Westphalia region control and monitor the tests, most of which are extremely complex. Particular attention has been paid to the comprehensive safety equipment in the battery laboratory. Phoenix Testlab has built on its many years of experience, together with information from numerous discussions with customers, in order to develop a comprehensive concept.

From the outset, the company has been committed to future-oriented technical developments. Cooperation in the development of the latest testing requirements and the creation of appropriate laboratory solutions in house was always particularly important to Phoenix Testlab.

Based on this philosophy, Phoenix Testlab has now been working for over five years on testing for lithium-ion batteries, which are the focus of the latest developments for the electrification of the automotive drive train. Phoenix Testlab has been part of these activities since the start and is able to build on its existing experience of testing batteries from power station and railway technology. Testing focuses on mechanical and thermal/climatic tests for qualifying batteries, but also investigations of electromagnetic compatibility.

In the next step, this test service provider will start up a new, particularly powerful shaker at the end of May 2011. This will enable not just vibration tests but also technically demanding mechanical shock tests to be performed on heavy battery systems. In addition, for October 2011 the startup of a new accessible salt spray chamber is planned. Both testing systems offer the option of active electrical operation of the batteries during the tests.

Phoenix Testlab, based in Blomberg, Germany, has been active as an independent test service provider for many sectors since 1994. Phoenix Testlab has comprehensive testing capacity in the fields of environmental simulation, electromagnetic compatibility, and electrical safety.

The company's activities also include the international certification of a wide range of electronic products. Phoenix Testlab currently employs 110 people and plans to further expand this team in 2011.