Hanwha Aerospace and SK Enmove unveil world’s first immersion cooling ESS: Leading the way in non-flammable battery solutions
The immersion cooling ESS is certified for non-flammable properties and protection against salt and dust
Hanwha Aerospace and SK Enmove have partnered to revolutionize energy storage systems
Hanwha Aerospace, in collaboration with SK Enmove, has unveiled the world’s first immersion cooling energy storage system (ESS), marking a significant step toward non-flammable battery technology. This partnership is set to drive innovation and revolutionize the ESS market with safer, more sustainable energy storage solutions, bolstering South Korea’s leadership in green energy storage.
The newly developed immersion cooling ESS uses advanced thermal fluid technology to fill the lithium-ion battery modules, effectively isolating each cell. This innovative design prevents the spread of thermal runaway, even if a single cell experiences this issue, and addresses other safety risks such as insulation failures due to environmental factors like dust or salt.
Seung-hyun Son, Head of the Energy Systems Center at Hanwha Aerospace, explains immersion cooling
“With decades of experience in ESS design and R&D, we have achieved industry leading levels of safety,” said Seung-hyun Son, Head of Energy Systems Center at Hanwha Aerospace. “Our immersion cooling ESS is set to lead the next generation of energy storage solutions, ensuring the highest levels of fire prevention. Safety is a critical requirement for maritime ESS applications.”
By offering superior safety compared to conventional air- and water-cooled ESS models, the system enhances the non-flammable characteristics of the battery. It has received certifications from major global institutions, including DNV and the Korean Register of Shipping (KR), for its key model, SEAL.
SK Enmove, Hanwha Aerospace’s partner providing thermal fluids for the immersion cooling ESS, also presented its differentiated fluid technology at the event.
“By leveraging SK Enmove’s world class Group 3 base oil technology and unique additive formulations, we have maximized the non-flammable properties of the battery,” said Sang-Hyuk Seo, Head of e-Fluids B2B Business at SK Enmove. “We are not only focusing on marine applications but are also developing submersion cooling ESS for land-based uses, including data centers and electric vehicles. Our goal is to position SK Enmove as a global leader in immersion cooling technology.”
SK Enmove, renowned for its market-leading Group 3 base oils and the well-known ZIC lubricants, has been diversifying into electric vehicle fluids and cooling fluids since 2022, with plans to commercialize its immersion cooling technology. This strategic expansion aligns with its goal to capture a significant share of the projected KRW 42 trillion ($31.5 billion) power efficiency market by 2040.
By leveraging its extensive experience in supplying ESS to public and maritime commercial vessels, Hanwha Aerospace aims to lead in eco-friendly maritime solutions. In synergy with Hanwha Ocean’s maritime business initiatives, the company plans to accelerate the development of a value chain in the eco-friendly ship sector. These strategic initiatives are expected to enhance Hanwha’s role in sustainable energy storage and maritime innovation.
Immersion Cooling ESS Safety Test: A thermal runaway is induced in the lithium-ion battery module to trigger a fire. The cooling fluid, fully immersed, effectively prevents its spread
Hanwha Aerospace
Founded in 1977, Hanwha Aerospace has become a leading company in the aerospace industry in South Korea. Today, Hanwha Aerospace’s products serve not only aerospace but also the defense and marine sectors. With an unwavering focus on customer-centric quality management, technological innovation, and product competitiveness reinforced by advanced technologies, Hanwha Aerospace is surging forward as a global leader in the burgeoning space and aerospace business as well as in the land, sea, and air defense industries.
For more information, visit: www.hanwhaaerospace.co.kr/eng/
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