Fleets big and small are correct to be concerned about the potential negative affects of EV batteries making contact with water. The consequences can be both dangerous and pricey.
Enter Eaton's new 3-in-1 battery vent valve, a first-of-its-kind product to hit the market that aligns with the new SAE J3277 standard. This standard has been designed specifically to evaluate non-destructive water intrusion testing for Rechargeable Energy Storage Systems (RESS) that are commonly used in battery-electric vehicles.
For reference, the SAE J3277 standard replaces older destructive testing methods, including IEC 60529's IPX7 level. This paves the way for a more precise, non-destructive method for assessing water intrusion resistance.
What makes the valve ideal for EVs is that it combines passive and active venting, a battery case leak-check mechanism, and resealing technology into a single unit.
Passive and active venting provides overpressure relief to prevent dangerous overheating as a result of cell failures. The leak-check mechanism in the battery case supports high-precision, non-destructive leaking, helping to ensure long-term battery reliability. The resealing tech, meanwhile, allows for customizable low opening pressures which improves safety compared to older burst-valve designs.
“Eaton’s 3-in-1 battery vent valve represents a significant leap forward in EV battery safety and testing,” said Jens Buhlinger, Eaton's manager of battery technology development. “As the first valve to combine these three essential functions, it delivers a level of performance and reliability that traditional solutions simply can’t match. By aligning with the SAE J3277 standard, our technology not only provides superior water intrusion resistance but also streamlines production for battery manufacturers. As the EV market grows, innovations like this are key to ensuring consumer confidence and advancing the industry.”
Eaton's 3-in-1 battery vent valve for EVs without the case.Eaton
Battery electrification continues to increase its presence as a preferred powertrain in the commercial trucking market. Although it's not currently the solution for long-haul transport, it's proven to be effective and reliable in the light- and medium-duty spaces, specifically Amazon's Rivian-supplied delivery vans, yard tractors, refuse vehicles, and Class 5 and 6 step vans.
