Safe, flexible and efficient battery testing
As the number of batteries in our society continues to grow, so does the need for knowledge about fire risks and safety. The risk of fire in lithium-ion batteries is generally low, but once a fire occurs, it can be difficult to extinguish, may have a tendency to reignite and, in some cases, even lead to explosions.
At DBI, we have both the test facilities and the expertise to carry out fire tests on batteries under safe and controlled conditions. The tests are conducted in a specially designed container – MOBAT (Mobile Battery Fire Testing Unit) – which is used for ad hoc testing on a smaller scale of both known and newly developed battery types.
Some tests are designed to induce thermal runaway and degradation in the battery, leading to fire and potentially an explosion.
In other tests, the battery is exposed to open flames to determine when it ignites, how it contributes to the fire, and how it can be cooled and extinguished.
In addition, we carry out tests to collect data related to the extinguishing of battery modules.
Facts about MOBAT
- Reduces time and costs
A flexible solution for battery fire testing, enabling repeated test cycles with significant cost savings.
- Multiple test options in one solution
Fire testing and thermal runaway testing of battery cells and small battery packs, including overcharging, external heating and short-circuit scenarios. Handles overpressure and explosions.
- Integration of specialised sensors
Option to integrate project-specific instrumentation such as gas sensors, thermocouples, cameras and data loggers.
- Operate the test unit yourself – anywhere
MOBAT can be delivered to your desired location. We also offer a short training session, enabling you to operate the test unit yourself without the need for external assistance on site.
MOBAT features a test chamber equipped with a tank for fire suppression and the ability to measure various gas compositions. It also includes a control room with camera and measuring instruments connected to DBI’s facade test rig measurement and data acquisition systems. The test chamber and control room are separated by an explosion-resistant wall and are fitted with pressure relief openings in the event of an explosion. In addition, MOBAT is equipped with a ventilation and smoke cleaning system.
The test unit is mobile and can be delivered to another site if you prefer to have your tests carried out there rather than at DBI.
What can these tests be used for?
With MOBAT, you can gain valuable insight into product properties. For example, building owners and shipping companies can obtain knowledge about fire risks associated with the use of batteries in buildings and on ferries, respectively.
This may, for instance, be relevant when installing batteries adjacent to buildings, transporting electric vehicles on ferries, or assessing fire spread between electric vehicles.
The tests can also form the basis for subsequent testing of larger-scale installations.
MOBAT in research projects
In collaboration with several partners, DBI has carried out a major research project in which MOBAT is used to investigate the risks of battery explosions at cell and small-pack level. The data collected supports the design of safety systems, fire suppression and material development ahead of full-scale testing.
The project is called BESAFE and was completed in April 2025. Click the button to learn more about the BESAFE project:
Need assistance with battery fire testing?
Robert is one of DBI’s experienced fire engineers in battery fire testing, and he will be happy to assist you with your enquiry.
Robert Firkic
Head of Advanced Fire Testing
Related news
New possibilities for safe battery testing
As the number of batteries in our society increases, so does the need for knowledge about fire risks and safety. Therefore, DBI has developed new test facilities that make it possible to conduct fire tests of batteries under safe and controlled conditions.
More focus on battery explosions
Battery fires and explosions are a serious issue we should deal with. Because the number of batteries is increasing. Consequently, DBI is involved in a new project to create new knowledge of the field and to make recommendations to emergency response teams.
Danish guidelines on battery fires can learn from abroad
The fire safety of Danish battery systems (BESS systems) can be improved by incorporating international experience. A new DBI report compares Danish and international guidelines in this field and provides concrete recommendations.
Location
Our headquarters and test facilities are centrally located in Copenhagen, Denmark – close to the motorway and only a 15-minute drive from Copenhagen Airport.
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Copyright © All material on DBI's website is protected by copyright law. If you are in any doubt about how to use our material, feel free to contact us at dbi@dbigroup.dk.
