Summary
- SK On is exploring immersion cooling as a different method for electric vehicle battery packs
- The immersion cooling method involves immersing battery cells in a thermal fluid, such as oil
- SK On is working with SK Enmove on this project, focusing on optimizing the flow of the thermal fluid for maximum contact with cells
- A wireless battery management system is required for immersion cooling to avoid issues caused by liquid flowing around connected wires
- General Motors and CATL have adopted wireless BMS systems, showing potential for making battery packs smaller and more efficient
Article
SK On, a South Korean battery supplier, is exploring a new cooling method for electric vehicle battery packs known as immersion cooling. This method involves submerging battery cells and modules in a thermal fluid, likely oil, instead of circulating coolant or air. By directly contacting the fluid with the battery cells, SK On claims that it can better suppress creeping temperatures, as long as the flow is optimized for maximum contact with cells. This approach also requires a wireless battery management system (BMS) to avoid issues caused by liquid flowing around connected wires. SK On is collaborating with SK Enmove, a subsidiary of the SK Group that specializes in lubricants, to develop this technology.
In order to implement immersion cooling, SK On attaches a chip to each battery cell that transmits information to antennas embedded within each module. This wireless BMS not only facilitates better cooling but also frees up space within the battery pack, potentially allowing for the accommodation of more cells and simplifying the overall layout. General Motors and China’s CATL have already adopted a wireless BMS in their battery technology, with the belief that optimizing for this system can lead to smaller battery packs and improved range. SK On’s innovation in the field of battery cooling represents a step forward in the development of electric vehicle technology.
Although suppliers and automakers have been experimenting with immersion cooling for over a decade, it has yet to be widely used in volume vehicles. However, companies like Rimac have incorporated it in electric supercars, and Ford is considering its use in a new type of battery that could facilitate module replacement in future EVs. Alongside immersion cooling, air cooling remains an option that some automakers are exploring. Mercedes, for example, considered air cooling for its new CLA EV, which aims to deliver significant efficiency gains. Nissan is also considering air cooling as it works towards solid-state battery technology.
The adoption of immersion cooling and wireless BMS technology represents a shift towards more efficient and advanced cooling systems for electric vehicle battery packs. By directly contacting battery cells with a thermal fluid, immersion cooling can help regulate temperatures more effectively, potentially leading to improved performance and longevity of the batteries. The integration of a wireless BMS further optimizes the cooling process and allows for a more streamlined and simplified battery pack design. As automakers and suppliers continue to innovate and explore new cooling methods, the future of electric vehicle technology looks promising with advancements in battery technology playing a key role in driving the industry forward.
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