Lithium-ion batteries are everywhere. From electric vehicles and smartphones to data centers and power tools, these high-performance batteries power our modern world. But with their widespread use comes a very real danger: lithium-ion battery fires.
Unlike most common fires, lithium-ion battery fires present unique challenges. They can ignite suddenly, burn at extremely high temperatures, and even re-ignite hours or days later. While many facilities rely on traditional fire extinguishers, these devices are often ineffective against lithium-ion battery fires. Let’s explore why.
Why Lithium-Ion Battery Fires Are So Dangerous
Understanding the chemistry behind lithium-ion batteries helps explain why they’re prone to fires. These batteries contain flammable electrolytes and can experience thermal runaway—a chain reaction where excessive heat causes the battery to ignite and burn intensely, releasing flammable gases, metals, and ignitable materials. If nothing is done, the fire continues to grow hotter, spreading rapidly and increasing the risk of everything around it catching fire. It’s not just stored energy—it’s plastics, pressure, and oxygen, like a blowtorch fueling the flame.
The real problem? Traditional fire extinguishers simply can’t handle these situations.
Why Traditional Extinguishers Fail Against Lithium-Ion Fires
Conventional fire extinguishers like foam, CO2, and water mist systems are designed to suppress fires by cutting off oxygen or cooling surfaces. But lithium-ion battery fires operate differently.
When thermal runaway occurs, it produces its own oxygen, making it incredibly difficult to suppress with standard extinguishing agents. While a CO₂ extinguisher may remove surface heat or displace some oxygen, it won’t stop the internal chemical chain reaction. Water mist systems also fall short—because lithium-ion fires burn at such high temperatures, the water turns to steam and evaporates before it can reach the core of the fire, leaving the thermal reaction untouched and allowing the fire to continue spreading.
And that’s not all—traditional extinguishers often fail to prevent re-ignition. Even when a fire appears to be extinguished, chemical reactions within the battery can cause it to flare up again hours later.
Want to learn more about why traditional systems fall short and what actually works? Download our free guide: The Ultimate Guide to Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Safety.
The Right Solution: Proven Fire Suppression for Lithium-Ion Battery Fires
Unlike traditional extinguishers, specialized lithium-ion fire suppression solutions are designed to break the chain reaction of thermal runaway and prevent re-ignition. Our partner’s proprietary technology has been proven to effectively suppress lithium-ion battery fires by cooling the cells rapidly and preventing further chemical reactions.
More importantly, these fire suppression systems are non-toxic and environmentally safe—they won’t contaminate water systems or harm surrounding infrastructure. Their clean deployment and zero-residue application make them an ideal choice for lithium-ion battery environments like EV manufacturing, recycling facilities, and warehousing operations where traditional suppression methods fall short.
Interested in learning more about effective fire suppression solutions? Download our comprehensive guide now.
What Makes TRF+ Different
Unlike traditional methods, TRF+ is specifically engineered to combat lithium-ion battery fires. Here’s how:
- Cooling: Rapidly cools cells to halt thermal runaway.
- Suppression: Interrupts chemical reactions to prevent fire spread.
- Re-Ignition Prevention: Ensures the fire doesn’t reignite hours or days later.
This technology is the only proven solution available in the United States for completely suppressing lithium-ion battery fires and preventing re-ignition. It’s already making a difference for companies across various industries, from electric vehicle manufacturing to battery and metal recycling facilities.
Want to see how Fire Suppression Solution’s technology can protect your facility? Download our guide to learn more.
Ready to Safeguard Your Operations? Here’s How:
Lithium-ion battery fires are a growing concern across many industries. As their use becomes more widespread, the need for effective suppression systems will only increase. Unfortunately, most traditional extinguishers simply aren’t up to the task.
Fire Suppression Solutions provides a proven, comprehensive solution designed specifically for lithium-ion battery fires. Whether you’re in manufacturing, warehousing, or another high-risk industry, having the right tools in place can make all the difference.
Want to protect your operation with the most effective fire suppression technology available? Download our guide today.