Category: Arbin News News

Ambri Selects Arbin Instruments’ Battery Test Equipment for Expansion of Next Generation Development Lab

September 8, 2022

Arbin Instruments, a leader in battery testing instrumentation, has been selected by Ambri to provide high-current battery testing systems for its pilot manufacturing expansion. These systems will facilitate the development and commercialization of its revolutionary Liquid Metal™ batteries. Ambri’s next-generation batteries offer long-duration stationary energy storage for a variety of electric grid and data center applications.

“We are excited to have been selected by Ambri to provide industry-leading battery testing systems,” said Lee Tillman, North American Sales Manager at Arbin. “We look forward to supporting the development of next-generation stationary battery energy storage systems.”

Arbin will supply Ambri with its Laboratory Battering Testing (LBT) series hardware, which provides industry-leading, high-precision measurements, and high-frequency data sampling. Paired with Arbin's software flexibility, this battery test equipment provides the control that is needed for the real-world tests that Ambri will be performing. The technology used in the LBT series of equipment was commercialized from a successful ARPA-E project, for which Arbin and industry partners Sandia National Lab and Ford won an R&D 100 award.

“To meet net-zero commitments and effectively address climate change, major changes are needed to our energy generation mix – including how to store an increasing amount of intermittent renewable energy sources,” said Adam Briggs, Chief Commercial Officer at Ambri. “Partnering with Arbin leverages the strengths of our respective technologies to commercialize Ambri’s grid-scale, Liquid Metal™ battery systems, which are critically necessary for successful decarbonization efforts. This partnership marks important progress in our work to deploy systems globally beginning in 2023, especially for utilities, independent power producers (IPPs), and other customers with high energy demands.”

For over thirty years, the expert engineers at Arbin have been advancing state-of-the-art battery test equipment. As Ambri moves to commercialize its Liquid Metal™ batteries – which cost 25% less than lithium-ion systems and are produced with commonly available and recyclable materials – Arbin’s decades of experience in the industry and emphasis on precision will serve to advance Ambri’s unique technology and help facilitate the deployment of Ambri systems around the globe.

About Arbin Instruments

Arbin Instruments is the leading manufacturer of high-precision battery test equipment. Arbin offers a competitive edge to battery researchers and industry clients whose decision-making is empowered by seeing the smallest changes happening in their batteries.

Arbin was founded in 1991 and headquartered in College Station, Texas, USA. Regional offices are in China, Germany, Hong Kong, South Korea, Taiwan, and India to support our global network. www.arbin.com.

About Ambri

Ambri’s Liquid Metal™ battery technology solves the world’s biggest energy problems – fundamentally changing the way power grids operate by increasing the contribution from renewable resources and reducing the need to build traditional power plants. Ambri’s long duration energy storage solution is built for daily cycling – even in extreme, harsh environments. With a lifespan of 20+ years with minimal fade, Ambri systems are not only extremely reliable but also safe as Ambri systems do not produce or emit any gases and no possibility for thermal runaway. For more information visit: www.ambri.com.

Avoiding BMS Damage During a Sudden Disconnect Event

May 27, 2022

Safety is a critical concern in undertaking battery testing, regardless of the battery format or the scale of the test. Poor safety practices or safety features in a battery management system (BMS) can result in inaccurate test data or worse, damaged batteries and risk of injury to researchers and team members. Even in the best-case scenario, the effects of unaddressed safety risks inhibit your testing progress.

While many battery chemistries will always have an inherent risk associated with their use, many of these risks can be mitigated through thorough testing and robust BMS. Protection circuits are common in most battery management systems that can disconnect a battery module/pack from a device if it senses an unsafe condition such as high temperature, cell/module voltage imbalance, or other abnormal behavior. Testing this protection circuit is important to fully qualify the BMS and battery.

Testing battery packs? Arbin’s RBT Series is engineered to test high-power batteries for complex, real-world scenarios. Learn more.

Many battery testers will not tolerate a true test of protection circuits because the sudden disconnect of a battery under test can damage the tester hardware or cause the tester to inadvertently damage the battery or BMS circuitry. Thankfully, Arbin has a solution.

Sudden Disconnect and its Potential Dangers

A sudden disconnect happens when a battery is disconnected while testing (charge or discharge) is in progress. This can happen when the protection circuit of a Battery Management System (BMS) is triggered. The BMS protection circuit disconnects the battery pack or internal modules to halt the unsafe condition that triggered it. In response, your testing equipment will immediately react to the sudden drop in voltage down to 0V.

This sudden disconnect of the battery typically happens for one of two reasons. The first is that the protection circuit has detected a true unsafe condition during the testing cycle. In the second case, the sudden disconnect is the planned result of testing the BMS protection circuit, to ensure that it works properly.

Whether intentional or not, the sudden disconnect of the battery creates several potential dangers. Your test equipment will detect the dramatic decrease in voltage and, to regain the previous voltage value, may apply the maximum possible current. In addition to the impact on the test results, the sudden increase in current could produce a spike that can damage the battery under test, the BMS, or both.

Arbin’s Protective Features

Arbin Instruments offers two features that, especially when applied together, can minimize the risks associated with the sudden disconnect of a battery mid-test. Arbin’s “damping” feature can be set in the test schedule for specific steps of the test and helps to prevent the channel voltage from reacting as strongly to the sudden disconnect.

Damping Feature Screenshot showing Damping Enabled

Damping Option in the Test Schedule

In addition, Arbin’s “voltage clamp” may be applied at an appropriate voltage limit and has a rapid response time of <1 mS. The clamp features can be applied dynamically when using Arbin’s CANBus interface. This can effectively let an external source such as a BMS control the Arbin tester in real-time.

Voltage Clamp Protection

Following a sudden disconnect situation, the Arbin system can also receive CAN message or other signal to confirm if the protection circuit did indeed disconnect the battery and stop the test.

Whether testing the function of a BMS protection circuit or running other tests, these preventative features help to ensure safety in the event of a sudden battery disconnect. They are just two of the many ways that Arbin Instruments prioritizes safety with our battery testing solutions. Our test equipment’s built-in safety features significantly reduce risk, which is especially important for a high-power testing application such as electric vehicle battery testing.

To learn more about the damping and voltage clamp features, as well as other mechanisms that reduce risk in battery testing, contact us today through our online contact form.

Europe’s Electric Expansion: The Rise of Gigafactories and Arbin’s Response

March 14, 2022

Tesla Gigafactory Facility and Parking Lot Berlin

Michael Wolf, Penig, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

In 2019, the European Commission presented an ambitious strategy for sustainability - the European Green Deal, which aspires to make Europe the first climate-neutral continent by the year 2050. Along with restoring a healthy environment, the goals of this extensive plan include protecting wildlife and generating new economic opportunities. The Green Deal is composed of a series of sustainability milestones across industries as varied as agriculture, textiles, construction, and transportation, as well as energy.

An Increased Demand for Sustainable, Clean Energy Solutions

Better energy solutions are a key aspect of the Green Deal. Its initiatives seek to establish a reliable and affordable energy supply, build a fully integrated EU (European Union) energy market, and prioritize overall energy efficiency. With energy production and use accounting for most of Europe’s greenhouse gas emissions, the transition to renewable, efficient energy sources is a critical part of the European Green Deal.

In particular, the European Green Deal highlights the need to reduce CO2 emissions. Transportation represents a sizable portion of this problem, as up to 25% of the EU’s greenhouse gas emissions result from transportation. To further speed up the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), which boast zero emissions, the EU has proposed a ban on new fossil-fuel cars from 2035.

These Green Deal initiatives compound the pressure of heightened public interest in environmental concerns and a growing demand for EVs. The increased emphasis on sustainable energy systems means an even greater demand for the research and production facilities that support the electric vehicle industry and other renewable energy solutions.

The Rise of the Gigafactory in Europe

One solution to this growing need is the introduction and propagation of gigafactories. As indicated by their name, these production facilities dwarf the size of typical factories and are designed to meet massive research and production needs. Tesla, whose CEO is credited with the invention of the term “gigafactory,” started construction on the very first one in June 2014 near Sparks, Nevada. At only 30% complete, the facility has 5.3 million square feet of operational space and is intended to supply lithium-ion batteries for a planned production of 500,000 cars per year.

Other gigafactory projects have followed, looking to address the current and anticipated demand for EVs and other sustainable energy solutions – particularly in Europe. As part of its mission to develop the world’s greenest battery cell, Northvolt established the battery gigafactory Northvolt Ett in Sweden. In Berlin, Germany, Tesla plans to complete its first Europe-based gigafactory this year, which will manufacture both battery cells and vehicles.

These two macro factories are just the beginning of gigafactory development in the countries of Europe. More than 20 European gigafactory projects are planned for completion over the next few years, with a focus on battery cell technology. As planned, these facilities would provide more than 1,000 GWh (gigawatt hours) of battery capacity by 2030, staying ahead of the anticipated demand based on current policy. Acceleration of standards in the coming years would bring these demand and capability figures even closer. Even with their massive production capabilities, by 2040, these gigafactories may fall short of the projected EV battery demand for Europe.

Arbin’s Response to the Needs of Gigafactories

As part of our aim to support those moving the battery industry forward, Arbin Instruments is committed to battery development in Europe. Arbin is working to address the increasing demand for battery research and production in two key ways: cycler and data management solutions for larger operations and a dedicated, growing Arbin Europe team.

Production facilities the size of the latest gigafactories require efficient management of both battery test equipment and the results data that testing produces. Arbin’s Central Monitor and Control Solution (CMCS) allows for control of multiple battery testers from a single PC, including the ability to start, stop, and resume testing. The CTI (Console TCP Interface) Interface also allows for third-party control of Arbin battery test equipment. For data management, our Central Data Solution (CDS) offers the ability to backup data to a central network or cloud-based server for use in dedicated analysis programs.

Our dedicated Arbin Europe office is also positioned to help meet the continent’s increasing energy research needs. The team’s knowledge of the battery industry in Europe allows the team to effectively address the unique needs of each organization in the countries that they serve. As both the Sales and Support Teams have expanded, new team members allow Arbin Europe to assist customers more efficiently in designing and implementing complete testing systems that meet their specifications.

Conclusion

Growing demand for electric vehicles and other clean energy solutions in Europe has significantly increased the scale of battery testing and production. The resulting rise of gigafactories requires the kind of reliable, precision testing equipment and effective management solutions that Arbin Instruments provides, aided by the expertise of the Arbin Europe team. To learn more about Arbin Instruments or begin building your testing system, contact our sales team today.

Arbin CAN: BMS-to-Tester Communication with Arbin’s CAN Bus Capability

March 10, 2022

Testing the Battery Management System (BMS) for a battery pack is a critical element in the battery validation process. Used to monitor the individual cells in a battery pack, the BMS can communicate essential information to an external interface, such as the battery test equipment. This BMS-to-tester communication has several important functions including verifying the BMS is functioning properly by comparing the BMS readings to the tester measurements. The Arbin CAN interface also allows the BMS to control the tester in real-time and apply dynamic “clamp” limits that can protect or further enhance the testing process. To take advantage of these features, however, the Battery Management System needs a communication protocol.

CAN bus is the most common protocol for communication between a cycler and a BMS. It provides a wide range of communication and control capabilities. Arbin’s Mits Pro employs the CAN Bus protocol, allowing CAN messages to be sent and received between the battery test equipment and the Battery Management System, and allows external control of the Arbin tester.

The Advantages of Arbin’s CAN Bus Capability

Arbin’s CAN Bus interface feature offers several important benefits for battery test operators. First, it provides you with a more flexible solution for CAN communication. Versatile enough to address a wide variety of testing applications and profiles, Arbin’s CAN Bus features can be used without third-party equipment, DLL packages, or licenses that are typically required. Through Mits Pro, Arbin’s CAN Bus functionality also allows you to define your own protocols, assign nicknames, and control tests according to your specific needs and testing standards.

Dynamic control of the Arbin cycler is another benefit of this CAN Bus feature. Unlike standard solutions, control of testing with Arbin’s CAN Bus feature is not restricted to static values for the length of the test. You can assign a CAN message to control values dynamically, with different values at various stages of a test. The CAN Bus solution also allows the BMS to fully control the Arbin testers’ charge and discharge using the CAN protocol.

The final key advantage of Arbin’s CAN Bus solution is that it facilitates communication and control between the Arbin battery tester and the Battery Management System in four distinct ways. You can customize the CAN configuration to fit virtually any requirements, allow the BMS to fully control the test equipment, monitor CAN information, and export CAN and I/V data to CSV or Excel formats for reports.

1. CAN Define: Customize Your CAN Configuration

Arbin’s CAN interface allows users to easily import their dbc file with custom CAN protocols. Once imported into Arbin’s GUI the CAN dbc is fully customizable to edit, add nicknames to CAN IDs, units can be assigned to IDs, and each can be enabled or disabled for control and logging during the test. No additional 3rd party software, licenses, or DLL packages are required for this level of convenience. A unique CAN configuration file can be assigned to each test channel on the Arbin tester.

Import and Customize CAN Configuration Protocols

The ease of import and customization to work with the CAN IDs is the foundation of other powerful abilities of Arbin’s CAN Interface. Arbin supports sufficient CAN Message IDs to allow the use of extra sets of protocols. As a result, the tester can communicate with the BMS as well as other external sources at the same time.

2. CAN Control: Fully Control the Arbin Battery Tester

Arbin’s CAN Bus capability also offers the ability to fully control your battery test equipment. This includes several key features, such as read/write integration, dynamic upper and lower “clamp” limits, and external control of the tester.

Read/write integration with the Battery Management System through CAN Bus allows for full control of the cycler’s charge and discharge. The “Write CAN Message” option can be used to send a command or multiple commands to the BMS throughout a test procedure. Through CAN messages, the BMS can tell the test equipment to charge or discharge at a particular value of current, power, etc. Including dynamic control. This communication can also be used to tell the test equipment to discontinue or slow down the charge or discharge at a certain value.

Send Commands to BMS or Third-Party Software - Software Screenshot showing Write CAN Message Feature

Use the "Write CAN Message" Option to Send Commands to the BMS or Third-Party Software

Dynamic upper and lower “clamp” limits are another important CAN Bus feature enabled through CAN messages. You can set CAN meta-variables that assign dynamic power and current limits in real-time while a test is running, rather than a single static limit that is pre-defined in the test schedule.

These dynamic limits help to increase the safety of the system during testing and validate BMS protection of the battery. For example, the BMS can limit the power during a simulation based on the dynamic limit, even when the simulation profile calls for a higher power and/or current level. The dynamic power and current limits are especially important for drive cycle simulations and similar testing applications so the simulation can run without pausing, but the BMS can limit the peak power output of the simulation.

CAN communication also allows for external control of the Arbin battery tester. An external source such as LabView can send CAN messages to control the test equipment. You can also employ the “Write CAN Message” option to send a command to third-party software throughout a test, just as you can through the Battery Management System. This is especially powerful during BMS development.

CAN Monitor: Monitor CAN Information

Another important feature of CAN is the ability to actively monitor CAN information. The Monitor and Control interface of Arbin’s Mits Pro software lets you monitor CAN details in real-time so that you can see communication and changes as they happen. Additionally, the Monitor and Control interface provides tools to send CAN messages manually.

Monitor CAN Information Through the Monitor and Control Window

On top of monitoring real-time information, the data monitoring highlights of CAN include generating reports to compare testing data. With this feature, you can conveniently cross-reference the data collected by your battery testing equipment with the data from the Battery Management System in a single results file. Having this data in one location makes it easier to compare and analyze the results.

4. CAN View Data: View and Export CAN and I/V Data

Finally, Arbin’s CAN Bus features include export options that give you even more flexibility review, store, and analyze your testing data. You can easily export both CAN and I/V data in either CSV or Excel formats with this capability. The CSV and Excel formats allow you to import your data to third-party programs for more advanced processing.

CAN Bus Data Table - Screenshot Showing Example CAN Data

Export to CSV or Excel to Process I/V and CAN Data

Using CAN Bus Communication for Power Clamp Limits

One use case for Arbin’s CAN Bus features in simulation profiles is through power clamp limits. With traditional termination limits, surpassing the limit in an EV (Electric Vehicle) drive profile, for example, means that the test is stopped, halting your testing progress. In addition, the simulation profile will have to be changed manually, to address the battery operating parameters that caused the battery to exceed those safety limits.

Although standard safety limits are still implemented along with the CAN option, CAN Bus communication offers an additional layer of flexibility. CAN protocol can assign a “power clamp” limit that is controlled dynamically over the course of the test. In this case, the BMS or modeling program will send messages that update the power output limit throughout the test.

Clamp Protections Table Showing Upper and Lower Clamp Limits via CAN Message IDs

Dynamic Upper and Lower "Clamp" Limits Using CAN Message IDs

Unlike traditional safety limits, the power clamp limit restricts the power output of the Arbin system without stopping the test. With values that are dynamic over the course of the test, this can better reflect real-life conditions and power output. Using CAN Bus communication to set power clamp limits will not only expedite the testing process, but will also allow for more complex control of the power output limits.

Arbin’s CAN Bus Capabilities and Your Customized Testing System

Arbin’s CAN Bus feature allows for communication between a BMS and an Arbin battery tester, something that is critical for many testing applications. Protecting the system and battery and actively controlling test equipment through the Battery Management System are just a few of the benefits from CAN communication.

These CAN Bus capabilities are just one of many features Arbin offers to give you the tools you need to address your specific battery testing requirements. Contact us today to learn more about using CAN with your BMS and your Arbin battery testing equipment – and more features to customize your testing setup. From drive cycle profiles and more, we can help you create a battery testing system that is ideal for your application.

Expanding into the Future with the Battery Industry: Arbin Looks Forward to 2022

January 7, 2022

Having celebrated 30 years in 2021, Arbin now prepares to look forward to 2022, continuing our mission to rise up to every challenge we come across. Arbin is committed to remaining at the forefront of battery technology, providing state-of-the-art battery test equipment to facilitate research.

The battery industry has grown exponentially over the years. The ongoing transition to green energy has sped this up. There is an increasing demand for energy storage solutions — and, subsequently, for improved equipment as better and more efficient technologies are tried and tested.

I recently had the opportunity to sit down with the Vice President of Global Sales for Arbin Instruments, Antony Parulian. He shared his perspective on the changing scope of the battery industry, explaining that battery innovations now extend beyond niche research communities in their potential and impact. Broader accessibility of battery research will lend greater support to sustainability efforts and other battery applications with a society-wide reach.

Arbin Instruments is specially equipped to provide the tools and resources that empower battery innovations at all levels. “We make battery testing accessible for both small and large operations while maintaining the quality required for reliable results,” Antony stated, referring to this as “precision at scale.” Arbin’s commitment to the wider availability of battery testing resources is reflected not only in our products but also in Arbin’s growth around the world.

Solutions for Every Battery Testing Need

Arbin’s dedication to accessible battery testing at scale is evidenced in our battery testing systems, software, data solutions, and support. This is especially important as battery research and testing facilities need test equipment capable of performing multiple functions, that can be integrated on a facility-wide scale. Arbin provides a turn-key test solution that can be expanded with additional auxiliary capabilities. Arbin’s MITS Pro software also provides a universal software interface for all battery testing applications so clients can transition seamlessly from lab-scale R&D to commercial scale and production testing.

Battery Testing Systems

Arbin’s battery testing systems come in different sizes, ranging from μA single cell applications to 1MW packs. Systems can also be customized to the number of channels, voltage, and other requirements of each unique project. Channels are fully independent with full potentiostatic and galvanostatic control.

Arbin’s battery testing systems are industry-leading in precision and resolution; high-quality equipment delivers the results needed to make decisions and forward strides in battery technology and innovation.

Our systems can also grow with your needs. Testing set-ups can be built on or enhanced with additional testing systems or auxiliary equipment. These include auxiliary voltage inputs, temperature measurement inputs, digital and analog input/our channels and more depending on the information needed.

Arbin also continues to develop new products that address the changing needs in the battery industry. The Multi-Zone Temperature Chamber (MZTC) features independent battery test mini-chambers that use state-of-the-art temperature management for a higher level of temperature control and reliability during testing. Arbin’s “3E” three-electrode coin cell provides reference electrode measurement that is designed for mass-scale testing and provides consistent results at a lower cost than traditional solutions.

Our latest HPS system, HPS21024, offers ultra-high precision charge/discharge testing of coulombic efficiency on cells up to 5A. Additional new products and solutions are in development as Arbin identifies specific needs within the battery industry.

MITS Pro Software

Arbin’s Mits Pro Software was designed to be a powerful and flexible solution to support battery testing systems. The software has logical menu-driven programming for control types, termination conditions, and data logging conditions. Tests can be simulated directly from a text file, which is useful when running real-life simulations such as drive profiles to more accurately test a battery’s performance.

In order to ensure the utmost safety, the Mits Pro Software also allows users to tailor precise safety limits and set the system to automatically stop tests if the safety threshold is reached.

Data Solutions

With labs usually running more than one battery tester, it is necessary to have efficient solutions to manage, monitor, and collect data. Arbin equipment can be managed across a network with the Central Monitor and Control Solution (CMCS) which allows users to control cyclers from a single PC. Users can start, stop, and resume testing on any networked battery testers and catch potential problems as soon as possible.

We also provide a Centralized Data Solution (CDS) for users to easily centralize and back up data to a central or cloud-based network server for easier and more sophisticated data analysis.

Customer Support

Customer support is one of our pillars at Arbin instruments. We believe in providing the best service to our customers in order to address their needs and concerns. We provide online resources, including training videos, to address common questions. Our customer service team provides dedicated, professional, and efficient service, giving answers with a quick response time to customers’ queries. Arbin also provides personalized support training to help customers get their systems up and running as soon as possible.

Expanding to Address Customer Needs

The battery industry is growing rapidly. The global lithium-ion battery market is forecasted to grow from USD 41.1 billion in 2021 to USD 116.6 billion by 2030. All around the world, countries are working to be better prepared for a green-energy future that will lean heavily on energy storage. In 2020, 5% of all new car sales were electric vehicles, by 2030, it is projected that EVs will make up 48% of all new cars sold.

With this in mind, Arbin instruments continues to establish branches in key locations to support global battery innovations that will have a society-wide impact. Arbin recently opened a location in Pune, India, in response to the growing demand for battery research and battery testing equipment in the country.

Arbin also has team members in China, Europe, and other locations where battery research is expanding. Our Texas-based headquarters remains committed to serving and meeting the needs of our US customers. In 2022, and in the years to come, we will continue to develop new solutions that address expanding and new battery testing needs around the world.

In addition to this global expansion, Arbin Instruments is expanding our production lines to address the increased need for high precision battery test equipment. These efforts are made so that we continue to be prepared to serve these industry trends as a reliable partner in battery research and development.

Conclusion

As the battery industry continues to grow and new technologies arise, Arbin Instruments is innovating along with industry leaders. For 2022 and beyond, we are focused on delivering precision battery test solutions to support the expanding industry and the global benefits that new battery developments will bring.

If you are looking for a quality, reliable testing solution that provides precision at scale for your next battery challenge, Arbin Instruments can help. Contact us today for a quote or to find out how our solutions can meet your testing needs.

What is to Come in Battery Technology

November 24, 2021

Battery technology is ever evolving as research and development into different materials, configurations, and designs bring new insights and breakthroughs. As the world moves towards green energy, batteries play an important role in powering the future. Be it consumer devices like smartphones or laptops, or electric vehicles and grid storage, battery technology is essential.

It can be years from when a breakthrough is made until it becomes commercially viable. During the period of maturing, more discoveries could potentially change the game. Arbin Instruments has been a long-standing participant in battery research, providing high quality, high precision battery test equipment to support research and development in various ways. Here are three technologies that could make an impact on the future of battery performance.

Maturing solid-state batteries

Solid-state batteries (SSB) have been in the game for a while. The appeal of this technology is that it replaces the flammable liquid electrolyte within current batteries with a solid alternative, mitigating the fire risk. However, over the years there have been many obstacles to overcome in order to design a viable version of the battery. These include issues like interface between electrodes and electrode degradation. Because of its solid form, ions within an SSB cannot move as freely between the anode and cathode as within its liquid counterpart, and they tend to degrade too rapidly for long cycle life applications.

These issues are gradually being addressed. Sakuu Corporation recently announced an industrial 3D printer that could mass produce solid-state batteries for smaller electric vehicles, technology that can be easily scaled up for larger applications. This simplifies the manufacturing process and lowers costs of SSBs, and could be applied to existing or new materials.

Other companies have also been exploring ways to deliver more seamless ways to transition to solid-state alternatives. Natrion, a battery research startup, recently announced a high-performance, flexible, and durable solid electrolyte film. The company designed the component in a way that is easily compatible with current lithium-ion battery manufacturing processes, so that manufacturers can rapidly transition their production lines into adopting this technology, without changing the entire process. This also helps to lower production costs and reduces concerns around complete revamps of production lines.

Non-lithium batteries

There are a multitude of material and chemical combinations that can comprise batteries. Different configurations change the efficiency, capacity, and stability of a battery. Most common batteries nowadays use lithium, with nickel, cobalt, and manganese among others to make up different battery components. Many researchers are investigating materials like air or silicon that can be combined with lithium removing more toxic metals like cobalt from the battery.

However, there is also research into batteries that do not use lithium. One such example is a CO2 battery. Startup company Noon Energy has been exploring a low-cost rechargeable battery that uses carbon and oxygen and is eyeing this as a solution for grid-scale storage. As renewable energy is adopted more and more, larger and more efficient storage solutions need to be developed to ensure a reliable amount of energy is stored for use. They favor the use of CO2 as it is abundant, cheap, and energy efficient.

How Arbin can support battery research

Arbin continuously innovates to support battery research. For instance, Arbin commercialized a three-electrode “3E” coin cell design developed and patented by General Motors. The extra reference electrode allows researchers to evaluate both the positive and negative electrodes simultaneously during cell testing. This helps to reduce time and cost during the research process.

The Arbin multichannel potentiostat/galvanostat system (MSTAT) provides independent potentiostat/galvanostat channels that each have a built-in connection for such three electrode cells, and supports both coin cell and pouch formats. The accompanying “3E” cell holders can be plugged directly into the MSTAT channels for testing.

The MSTAT can be used with a wide range of battery chemistries and provides best in class performance with 24-bit resolution and precision better than 40ppm. Arbin can help researchers identify which electrode in the battery is the limiting factor faster than ever before!

Various modules that can be added onto Arbin systems can also support battery testing and materials research. The EIS module is an integrated solution that combines the battery test performance of Arbin with the advanced EIS capability of Gamry, allowing users to share up to 32 Arbin tester channels with a single Gamry EIS unit.

Innovation is an ecosystem. Advances in battery test equipment and tools help lead to new findings and expediting the R&D process. High quality battery testing technology can support materials research in order to explore new chemistries that could lead to the next generation of high-density energy storage devices. Although the process of research and development can be long and arduous, there are many breakthroughs big and small happening all the time. All these, together, lay the foundation for the technology and world that we will experience in the near future.

The Impact of Temperature on Battery Testing

November 12, 2021

Temperature has a significant impact on battery performance. A battery releases energy through electro-chemical reactions and these reactions are encouraged by higher ambient temperatures. Different battery chemistries have different ranges of optimal operating temperatures. Depending on the application or the climate that the battery will be used in, they would be required to operate in higher or lower temperatures.

However, operating batteries at extreme temperatures also comes with risks. At higher temperatures, there is a reduction in internal resistance, which means higher electron mobility and greater charge/discharge rates. Nevertheless, studies have also shown operating a battery at elevated temperatures speeds up degradation, diminishing the cell’s life cycle.

Continuous exposure to high temperatures can also cause unwanted chemical reactions and result in gas, corrosion, or even fires and explosions. Moreover, a battery cell can enter into thermal runaway — when the cell heats up faster than heat can dissipate, causing a continuous increase in temperature. If one cell in the pack heats up, this can quickly cause the whole pack to overheat, undermining the safety of the system, machine, or surrounding people.

Conversely, lower temperatures decrease battery performance and energy capacity. Electro-chemical reactions are not as active and the internal resistance increases, damaging the battery in the long run. This is why it is extremely crucial to take temperature into account when testing batteries.

Why is temperature important in battery testing?

Battery testers and researchers need to establish how a battery would react under different temperatures to see if they are suitable for their intended application and location of use. As new battery chemistries emerge or existing ones improve, researchers must conduct testing to determine the battery’s optimal temperature range for peak performance. Moreover, this helps determine whether it is suitable for conditions they are intended to operate in. Comprehensive testing under different temperatures also helps determine which conditions can negatively impact battery performance, and allow users to better prevent dangerous situations from occurring.

How Arbin can support temperature-controlled testing

Arbin Instruments can support labs with various products when temperature-controlled testing is needed. Arbin provides three different types of battery temperature measurement options: thermocouple, RTD, and thermistor, depending on your testing needs. Thermal sensors provide reliable temperature readings so that labs can more completely assess a battery's performance. The different sensor types are appropriate for certain ranges of temperature, with varying response times and susceptibility to electrical noise. Experts at Arbin Instruments are able to help labs evaluate the most appropriate sensor for the intended application.

How Arbin’s novel battery test chamber can help

Arbin’s novel "MZTC" Multi-Chamber is a cell-isolating thermal safety chamber with 8 independent mini temperature chambers in one benchtop unit. As each mini-chamber is its own battery test chamber, it is much easier for researchers to ensure that the temperature of the chamber is stable and uniform, significantly reducing problems from uneven temperatures that that can occur with a larger chamber. It also provides users with greater temperature control and a safe testing environment. If batteries in one chamber overheat or enter into a thermal runaway event, it is less likely to cascade to other batteries inside the other mini chambers.

Moreover, Arbin offers the “MTCI” module, an interface that is compatible with many 3rd party temperature chambers when temperature and/or humidity-controlled environments are required. Using RS232 communication, users can set the temperature of a chamber during testing. Paired with Arbin’s MITS Pro software, the user-friendly interface makes it easy for researchers to not only set the temperature of the test chamber, but also synchronize a group of channels where the temperature is adjusted only after all the channels have reached the same temperature point.

Testing equipment that can best support a battery research lab will need to facilitate both safety and productivity. At Arbin, our experts can assist in planning and recommending solutions and products that best fit your requirements. Contact us now to learn more about how we can assist you with temperature-controlled testing needs

Three Benefits of Central Battery Test System Control

September 24, 2021

Why is it important to obtain large amounts of data when testing?

Data is one of the most important elements of research and testing. In various industries and fields, data gives researchers insight into the subject of study. A wealth of data also provides a foundation upon which to base findings and conclusions. Especially in an industry such as battery testing, comprehensive and extensive testing ensures safer and more efficient batteries.

Most labs would be running more than one battery tester at a time. Testing can be a long process and researchers must make good use of time in order to facilitate battery development. Moreover, conducting large volumes of testing helps researchers to identify patterns or spot abnormalities in battery performance and testing, and address the situation as soon as possible. Without multiple tests, it would be difficult to identify the circumstances under which problems or anomalies occur. It would also be harder to pinpoint situations that need attending to.

Understanding these challenges, Arbin’s expert engineers developed the Central Monitor and Control Solution (CMCS) to complement our core MITS Pro software and aid researchers in managing multiple testers. Here we outline 3 benefits to setting up a centralized control system

1. Have all your controls in one place

A centralized control system allows researchers to control multiple battery testers from one single PC. This gives researchers a better overview and easier management of active cyclers. Users can easily see what tests are currently being conducted and schedule test times. Systems like Arbin’s CMCS allow users to start, stop, and resume testing on any networked battery testers.

2. Increase lab efficiency

Monitoring each PC, tester, or system individually can be quite inefficient and time-consuming. Centralized systems also allow researchers to control the tests without having to visit each individual machine. If anything needs to be changed or updated it can be done from one PC, saving time and energy. This leaves more room for labs to increase productivity and streamline their processes.

3. Catch problems as soon as possible

Any issues that arise during battery testing can be quite dangerous. For instance, if there is a potential for thermal runaway or a short circuit that can affect the safety of the lab, it is imperative to catch it as soon as possible. Again, if lab technicians and researchers would have to check one machine at a time it could waste valuable time. It would be easier to catch it from one central monitoring system and address any issues as soon as they arise.

Managing multiple testers and cyclers can be overwhelming. Arbin’s Central Monitor and Control Solution (CMCS) allows labs running multiple testers to better manage and monitor their ecosystem of testers. The CMCS greatly simplifies the management of battery test equipment and supports labs and researchers to conduct more productive and efficient tests. Learn more about the features of Arbin’s CMCS here.

Arbin Instruments Establishes Office in Pune, India

August 27, 2021

Arbin Instruments, manufacturer or high-precision battery test equipment, is pleased to announce the opening of its India office in Pune. The Arbin India office will provide sales and service support for current and future Indian customers.

Arbin established the new branch in response to the increasing demand for battery research and battery testing equipment in India. Arbin’s new India office is a direct reflection of the company’s resolve to empower and promote battery innovations worldwide. Arbin understands the vital role energy storage plays in everyday life and its importance to the future. As a result, the Arbin team works hard to provide high-quality service and testing equipment as a tool for both research and industry.

The Arbin India office will also allow Arbin to work directly with customers in India to provide sales and support to enhance established and new relationships. Vinod Pursani, CEO of the Arbin India office, says, “We are excited to continue providing state-of-the-art test equipment and service to India’s energy storage researchers.” Arbin India is equipped to assist customers with everything from identifying appropriate battery testing equipment, providing relevant auxiliary equipment, and supporting Arbin customers with quality service.

Sales and service in India was previously managed by Arbin’s long-time partner, Metrohm India Pvt. Ltd. The Arbin India office team will work closely with Metrohm India through an extended transition period to ensure continuous support for customers. “We thank Metrohm India for their dedicated work over the past ten years,” says Pursani.

The Arbin India office officially opened in January 2021 with dedicated teams for sales, support, and testing. “We have assembled a team with the experience and passion to serve the Indian market well,” says Arbin Indo-Pacific Sales Manager Richard Rogers. The launch of the new office comes as the company celebrates 30 years in business, highlighting decades of innovation and dedication in the battery industry.

5 Reasons Your Lab Needs a Battery Rack Connection System

July 26, 2021

As the demand for battery-powered devices rises, so does the need for battery testing. In the past, the average battery current needs were around 5-10 Amps. Nowadays, the average can be up to 100-200 Amps or even more. The added power makes it more important than ever to create a safe and orderly testing environment. One way to accomplish this is by using battery racks and connection systems.

What is a battery rack connection system?

A well-planned battery rack connection system allows researchers to set up and organize their testing equipment to optimize the safety and efficiency of the lab. The system consists of shelves that can hold the batteries undergoing testing as well as cable management. Here we outline five key reasons a battery testing lab can benefit greatly from a battery rack connection system.

1. Provide a Safe Laboratory Environment

A battery rack not only provides a definitive space for batteries to be stored, but it also allows for better cable management, and together they help prevent tripping hazards and potential dangers.

With a designated space for batteries, it will be easier to keep them out of contact with conductive materials, water, seawater, strong oxidizers, and strong acids as well as other materials that could pose a safety hazard if in contact with batteries. Moreover, it also reduces the risk of physical battery damage from being dropped, falling, or being accidentally knocked over.

Batteries like Li-ion ones have the potential to start fires if misused. Proper storage ensures that the batteries do not sustain physical damage through mishandling. It also allows researchers to easily catch when batteries are damaged or puffed up by giving them a clear and organized overview of the batteries.

With better cable management, it is also easier to identify another potential fire hazard: poor electrical connections. As cables are not left on the floor or hanging between surfaces or machines, the chances of tripping in the lab and accidentally loosening connections or damaging wires could be greatly reduced. Tripping is a common cause of accidents in a lab and can be easily prevented with proper management.

2. Comply with Laboratory Safety Regulations

Safety regulations are put in place for any laboratory setup in order to better prevent avoidable accidents. Many popular cells and other batteries formats used in research are considered hazardous materials. Since batteries are also a fire hazard and may contain toxic chemicals, proper handling and lab safety is critical.

There are several standards in place to ensure that batteries and battery testing are both safe. For instance, the Lithium-Ion Batteries Hazard and Use Assessment outlines the standards set by international institutions such as the Underwriters Laboratories, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, and the International Electrotechnical Commission. These standards are in place to ensure consumer safety and to reduce fire and failure risks. A battery rack can assist labs in conducting efficient testing with safe processes.

A well-organized lab can also demonstrate a lab’s competence and professionalism. By meeting battery and battery test standards, a lab shows its commitment to accurate and safe testing. This helps to prove reliability and credibility to a lab’s partners, customers, and investors.

3. Simplify Physical Battery Management

As previously mentioned, battery racks help researchers keep better track of batteries as well as their respective connections. Batteries can be organized by tray or by rack and can be easily labeled by channel and position. During testing, researchers can better tie physical batteries to the data collected or to specific events. When any anomalies or testing issues arise, the relevant battery can be easily found and necessary steps taken before anything happens.

4. Use Limited Laboratory Space Efficiently

Labs are full of different equipment, computers, cables, and more. Moreover, researchers would also need sufficient space to safely navigate through the lab and reach certain equipment. Battery racks keep batteries organized, and by stacking upwards, there is more space in the lab for movement or even for extra equipment. An organization system helps keep researchers' workspace clean and tidy, in turn creating a safer working environment. Racks also make it easier to store batteries in a dry, temperature-controlled space that is required for the safe storage of batteries.

5. Enable Greater Battery Testing Productivity

With organized and efficient storage, less time can be spent dealing with various issues. Battery racks reduce potential safety issues and potential hazards from damaged batteries. Batteries that show unexpected or concerning results can be identified and removed quickly. Less time can also be spent working around batteries that are stored randomly or moving batteries when more space is needed.

A lab’s working procedures will also be more efficient and streamlined with better storage. As batteries can be stored on trays, they can be easily removed and switched out once testing is complete. Organized cables will make it more efficient to run and manage the testing process. Batteries can also be easily moved to different locations as needed for different test requirements. All these together reduce the time needed to manage the testing procedures, allowing more time for productive research.

Arbin’s Battery Rack Connection System

Arbin provides battery rack solutions that suit your needs and help you to take advantage of all these benefits for your laboratory. As leading experts in battery testing technology, Arbin battery racks are designed specifically with this purpose in mind. Our racks are made of aluminum and each layer holds one battery track, each of which can hold 4 or 8 battery cells. There is a 7” space in between layers to accommodate different trays or cells. Racks also have lockable casters to keep them in place or to easily move them as needed.

Arbin also has different battery rack options to suit the needs of your lab. Racks come in different sizes: single column with 5 layers; single column with 8 layers; two columns with 16 layers; and three columns with 24 layers. No matter the size of your lab and operation, you can find a rack system that works for you. Different tray types are also available for different types of batteries, including cylindrical cell trays and pouch or flat cell trays. A plain shelf is also available to accommodate other battery holders or battery formats. Cable lengths come in 6 ft, 12 ft, 20 ft, and 30ft to provide the distance you need for convenient connections between batteries and battery test equipment.

Our experts at Arbin can help you customize your ideal battery testing solution for your lab, pairing the right equipment and support infrastructure to meet your needs. Contact us today to learn more about Arbin’s battery rack connection solutions as well as our high-precision battery test equipment.