Liquid vs Air Cooling System
– why does it matter?
The concept of Energy Storage Systems (ESS) is gaining significant traction among organizations and businesses. ESS installations offer a myriad of benefits, including enhanced self-sufficiency and long-term cost efficiency. However, before investing in energy storage, it´s crucial to know some of the technical aspects to make an informed decision.
One of these aspects is the choice of a cooling system, as it plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and performance of the batteries within ESS.
Which cooling system should I use?
The thermal dissipation of batteries within an ESS is a paramount factor affecting their performance and longevity. To maintain an optimal temperature for these batteries, a reliable cooling system is essential. When it comes to cooling an ESS, you’ll typically encounter two options: liquid cooling and air cooling.
Air cooling for ESS
Air cooling involves using air, generated by installed fans, to dissipate heat and maintain the batteries’ temperature within the ESS. This cooling system is relatively straightforward in design and doesn´t require complex infrastructure, which makes the system easy to maintain. That is also why the air cooling system is much cheaper to install within a ESS application.
However, it has limitations when it comes to cooling larger ESS containers with high energy capacity due to the relatively low thermal conductivity of air. Thus, air cooling is best suited for applications in lower ambient temperatures with lower heat dissipation requirements.
Liquid cooling for ESS
On the other hand, the liquid cooling system employs a flow of liquid to cool the batteries within an ESS application. It involves circulating a liquid coolant through a network of pipes to absorb and transfer heat away from the batteries.
Liquid cooling is highly effective at dissipating high levels of heat and offers precise temperature control. However, it is a more complex system, requiring regular maintenance and a higher initial investment compared to air cooling.
Choosing the right cooling system
Selecting the appropriate cooling system for your ESS can be a critical decision. While many might assume that the cost-effective air-cooling system is the most economically efficient choice, the truth is that there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The choice depends on the specific conditions of your application. Here are some key criteria to consider when making your decision:
- Cooling requirement: Evaluate the cooling demands of your ESS, considering factors like performance of the prismatic cells and their heat dissipation rate, the working scenario of your application, the free space of the batteries, the environment, etc.
- Environmental adaptability: Consider the ambient temperature conditions in your location. Air cooling works well in cooler environments, while liquid cooling can adapt to a wider range of temperatures.
- Maintenance: Think about your capacity for system maintenance. Liquid cooling systems require more attention and upkeep.
- Size of the ESS solution: The air-cooled systems are limited to space constraints while liquid-cooled systems have a better scalability for larger
Energy storage system from Sparq
Sparq provides tailored solutions based on your needs and power requirements. The size, storage capacity, design, and other specifications are totally customized to meet your demands.
You will work with our specialized team of product specialists and engineers to develop a viable solution that will be delivered and installed on time.
A complete BESS will be provided by your local reps with a 5-year guarantee and up to 14.33Kw rated energy.
[…] As an investor, prioritize safety and avoid cutting corners. Your choice of cooling system, whether liquid or air, will also impact costs. Learn more about this in our article “Liquid vs Air Cooling System – Why Does It Matter?” […]