Freudenberg Sealing Technologies has established a new battery testing laboratory at its North American headquarters in Plymouth, Michigan. This investment will enable the company to conduct in-house testing of batteries and their components, including simulating thermal runaway scenarios. The lab is also equipped to perform simulation tests that mimic battery cycling situations.

As forecasts suggest, EV sales could reach 100 million by 2030, addressing challenges such as range, power, safety, and charging durations becomes crucial for manufacturers. One potential solution is the adoption of lithium-ion batteries with enhanced energy and power densities, aiming to boost vehicle range and potency. However, these batteries could potentially introduce increased risks of thermal events due to the higher heat and pressure they might produce during operation. The new laboratory at Freudenberg Sealing Technologies will enable engineers to monitor thermal runaway and other processes in real-time, using the data from these observations for their R&D endeavors.

“Freudenberg Sealing Technologies taps into its vast expertise in sealing, material and component design, and manufacturing to cater to various industries,” said Chad Bauer, senior vice president of technology and innovation at Freudenberg Sealing Technologies. “The battery lab will offer crucial insights and the necessary data for designing EV product solutions. Our expertise in materials suited for fire and thermal applications dates back over two decades, originating from our aerospace products, and we aim to expand this knowledge for the EV sector.”