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Lithium packaging
Packaging for batteries

Safe transport of Lithium Batteries

Post by 360 Ecopackaging On 0 Comments

Our cell phones, electronic devices and electric vehicles are powered by lithium batteries, a source of energy that is increasingly present in our daily lives. 

By their nature, lithium batteries are considered dangerous goods, and as such require approved packaging to avoid potential risks during handling and transport, both for people and the environment. As certified and approved manufacturers of this type of packaging, we want to show in this post the high importance of storage and transport of this type of product.

Lithium battery regulations

All dangerous goods must comply with specific regulations and warnings, and batteries are no exception.

First of all, lithium batteries contain high levels of electrical energy, which makes them prone to overcharging, extreme temperature, short circuit and mechanical damage. Therefore, improper use or storage could lead to fires or explosions such as the one that occurred on the Felicity Ace cargo ship in 2022, with more than 4,000 luxury cars on board.

Therefore, manufacturers and intermediaries must use approved packaging, which complies with the regulations of the chosen means of transport, whether by land, sea or air. That is:

  • Land:

European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR).

  • By Air:

International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Technical Instructions (TI) for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations.

  • By Rail:

International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Rail (RID).

  • By sea:

International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG).

lithium batteries

Packaging of lithium batteries

Secondly, there are a number of considerations to take into account when looking for solutions for handling and transporting batteries.

  • Heat resistance: use materials resistant to high temperatures.
  • Insulation: each battery must be individually insulated in its own compartment or container to avoid short circuits and shocks that could damage it.
  • Avoid contact with metals: lithium batteries should not come into contact with metal objects, as this could cause short circuits. They should be separated from each other by non-conductive insulators, such as polyethylene or plastic foams.
  • Hazard statements: use the correct labeling according to the applicable transport regulations.
  • Stability: by means of protection and fastening elements that guarantee their safety. The heavier the battery, the more support it needs.

Identification and labeling of packaging for lithium batteries

The packaging of lithium batteries must also be provided with labels and information warning of the risks of handling and transport:

The class 9 identification label, model 9A, is mandatory.

The UN number, which identifies the material from four digits. The identification codes for the different types of batteries are:

Lithium-ion batteries UN-3480.

Lithium-ion batteries UN-3481 included or packaged in a device.

Lithium metal batteries UN-3090.

Lithium metal batteries contained or packaged in a device UN-3091.

The homologation password indicating the material, country, year of manufacture and manufacturer’s code.

In conclusion, please consult here without obligation our approved solutions for the storage of lithium batteries, individual or integrated in equipment, for each mode of transport.

 

Also in our usual communication channels: info@360ecopackaging.com and on the phone (+34) 699 239 392

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Packaging for batteries

Battery packaging, essentials and main factors to be taken into account

Post by 360 Ecopackaging On 0 Comments

In our more than 80 years, 360 Eco Packaging has manufactured many certified packaging for dangerous goods and explosives, so we want to mention that we are members of the Subcommittee CTN 192 SC 03 (UNE/ISO) in the development of a new regulation in the field of transport of dangerous goods with AENOR and the Ministry of Industry (ISO 16495 development).

In this post, we will talk about the packaging and batteries shipping, including those coming from the automotive sector as one of the most complex in the field of transport and logistics.

To begin with, we must take into account the type of item to be transported; in this case, batteries classified as hazardous under current regulations. Therefore, as a normative and legal basis we must take among others the ADR code that identifies this type of element in category 2, class 9.

For the different types of batteries, this ADR code classifies them according to their construction material, for example:

  • Lithium-ion battery: UN No. 3480
  • Lithium metal battery: UN No 3090
  • Nickel-metal hydride battery: UN No. 3496
UN 3480

In this link, you can consult all the information.

Once the type of battery to be protected has been defined, the ADR code defines specific instructions for each type of battery depending on different parameters such as: the point in its life cycle, the degree of deterioration, whether it is installed in equipment, etc.

After this short introduction, we will try to answer the main questions that may arise:

What are ADR boxes or certified packaging for battery transport?

The certified packaging for the transport of batteries or ADR crates for batteries is a type of packaging specifically designed and developed for this purpose.

These crates come with the product from the factory to the recycling plant.  In other words, we offer the solution for the entire circuit from the point of view of savings, since the cost is the minimum.

Therefore, the packaging not only serves as a mere means of protection, but is positioned as a key link in the value chain that makes up the life cycle of the batteries.

 

Why is the transport of batteries classified as dangerous?

Mainly, because due to their construction type, this type of batteries are sensitive to impacts and sudden temperature changes, and there is a risk of internal component leakage, explosion or fire due to high temperature, among others.

Therefore, it is essential to minimize these risks by designing a packaging that contains and minimizes them.

 

Can damaged batteries be transported?

Yes, as we mentioned at the beginning of this post, there is a specific regulation for these issues.

In this case, it is a robust packaging capable of containing and retaining liquid spills, thus avoiding explosions, perforations, deterioration or other types of incidents capable of damaging not only the product but also causing damage to the population or the environment.

Lithium Battery

As a conclusion, storing, transporting and shipping a battery correctly ensures that the risks involved are eliminated or minimized.

Keeping the battery at a suitable temperature is essential to avoid spontaneous combustion. These types of batteries are very sensitive to humidity, high and low temperatures. In addition to the main packaging, there are temperature and humidity detectors capable of monitoring these parameters.

Finally, it must be taken into account that the transport agency with which the service is carried out must be certified for this type of shipment. They must be qualified for the transport of dangerous goods and comply with the established regulations.

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