Safe storage for lithium batteriesLithium battery fires on boats are not just a risk, they are a reality. Incidents causing the destruction of multiple yachts are now a weekly occurrence, according to iAqua Ocean Safety, manufacturers of the iAqua Lithium Safety Store, a product engineered to prevent these disasters.
Lithium battery fires on boats are now a frequent occurrence and can spread alarmingly quickly.
If marinas mandate the use of the Lithium Safety Store for all boats, this policy not only enhances the protection of individual vessels but safeguards the entire marina from the domino effect of spreading fires, setting a new benchmark in maritime safety. They can also tap into a profitable venture by providing the stores for rent. As lithium batteries age, they become more vulnerable to fires. Tiny cracks can form in their casings, allowing seawater or salt moisture to seep in, creating a high risk of spontaneous and uncontrollable fires. Even new batteries aren’t immune, especially when charged with high-capacity, quick chargers provided by manufacturers to shorten charging times.
The Lithium Safety Store, available in different, stackable sizes, contains vulnerable batteries and any ensuing fire, and has early warning alarms and fire-suppression.
The Lithium Store took years to develop and is backed by multiple patent applications covering the usage of ground-breaking materials and unmatched construction levels to contain violent lithium fires of up to 2,000°F/1,100°C; and rapid-response advanced communications to give essential early warnings of fire. Each store is built with a 1in (2.5cm) thick wall fortified with Kevlar to give intense heat resistance and blast protection. The UL 94VO rated insulation core ensures heat remains contained, and a sleek, high gloss glass fibre or carbon finish adds strength and enhances the appearance of the box. Thanks to its heat-blocking construction, the unit can be comfortably moved using standard protective safety wear so that it can be relocated to an open area or, if necessary, discarded overboard.
The stores are also equipped with early warning systems and fire-suppression and have a built-in water inlet fire extinguishing port that allows any unit to be manually flooded via a one-way inlet valve. And each comes with a handheld digital infrared temperature reading gun operating from 58°F to 932°F (-50° to 500°C), with backlight for day/night usage. Heat can thus be monitored from a distance to enhance safety. Three different sizes are available in stackable designs with carrying handles to make each convenient to use and tidy to store – and installing the Safety Store onboard, not only protects the boat and the marina but can also reduce vessel insurance premiums. www.iaquaoceansafety.com
