esarc adiabatischer kalorimeter · esarc® adiabatischer kalorimeter produktinformation tel. (089)...

esARC®

Adiabatischer Kalorimeter

PRoduKtinfoRmAtion

Tel. (089) 45 60 06 [email protected] www.c3-analysentechnik.de

C3 Prozess- und AnAlysenteChnik Gmbh

E n h a n c e d S p e c i f i c a t i o nS e t t i n g N e w S t a n d a r d sES

Offices in ENGLAND, USA, CHINA; Representation Worldwide

Body Text Subheads

Bullet Text

ContentsEnhanced Specification ARC™: Controlling the elements

Safety of Chemical Reactions and Processes

Safety of Reactive Chemicals, Explosives,Lithium Batteries

Operation of the ARC

Data; Standard Sample 20% DTBP

Applications of the ARC

Options for the ARC

ARC Testing of Lithium Batteries

The EVARC, Double & Triple Systems

Battery Performance, MultiPoint & CryoCool

Support & Service

Why the ARC? Why THT?

History

Specification

3TM ‘ARC’ is a registered Trade Nameof Thermal Hazard Technology

Body Text Subheads

Bullet Text

ContentsEnhanced Specification ARC™: Controlling the elements

Safety of Chemical Reactions and Processes

Safety of Reactive Chemicals, Explosives,Lithium Batteries

Operation of the ARC

Data; Standard Sample 20% DTBP

Applications of the ARC

Options for the ARC

ARC Testing of Lithium Batteries

The EVARC, Double & Triple Systems

Battery Performance, MultiPoint & CryoCool

Support & Service

Why the ARC? Why THT?

History

Specification

3TM ‘ARC’ is a registered Trade Nameof Thermal Hazard Technology

Main Headingmain header

Scales of Reaction

Process Development

Manufacturing

Transportation

Storage

In the Chemical Industry, for all potential RunawayReactions, heat loss possibility and environmentalconditions are important, scale is important…

A small vessel will lose more heat than a large vessel; thelarge vessel is more adiabatic. A reactive material in asmaller vessel will be stable to a higher temperature thanthe same material in a larger vessel. The same samplemay be safe in a beaker or drum – but may runaway ina tanker causing explosion. A battery may be stable as asingle unit – but as a battery pack in a black casedNotebook alongside heat-producing electroniccomponents heat output may raise the battery temperaturecausing disintegration and fire.

To simulate the real-life or large scale scenario, thesample under investigation must be in an environmentwithout heat loss (or gain). The adiabatic environmentbest reproduced in the ARC.

The temperature where the heat production exceeds theheat loss is the Temperature of No Return (TNR). There isnot just one TNR, this value will change as heat losspotential changes. Vary the environment and the TNR canbe reduced significantly. Heat generation is quantified bythe adiabatic calorimeter; the heat loss may be measuredor calculated. ARC test data can then be linked with heatloss information giving TNR, maximum pack size, SADT,maximum safe operating or storage temperature. Thisanswers questions such as:

Can the material be used safely?

Should conditions be modified?

Is your process safe? Is the storage safe?

Should smaller containers be used?

Is the material safe to transport in such scalein hot countries?

Is the battery safe?

THERE IS A VITAL NEED FOR ADIABATIC SAFETY DATAFROM THE ARC TO ANSWER SUCH QUESTIONS.

ARC technology was first devised 30 years ago, time hasmoved on – but the potential hazard of chemicals,intermediates, pharmaceuticals, monomer, and explosivesremains. But new hazardous materials are now in use.

In addition one well-known new ARC application isLithium Batteries. Lithium Batteries have the potential torunaway for more than one reason. Their chemistry ishazardous; lithium ions on carbon anodes, flammableelectrolyte, unstable de-lithiated oxide materials (cathode)and a battery that will contain the highest charge density.

Clearly the need to assess safety of chemicals, materials,systems and even batteries for their potential to self-heathas never been greater. There has never been a timewhen there is greater need for data obtained byadiabatic calorimetry as supplied by the THT ARC, theworld benchmark Adiabatic Safety Calorimeter.

Self-heating of a reaction and heat loss from 3 vessels,A, B and C is illustrated below.

A can control the sample to temp T1, B will control thesample at the critical temperature, TNR and C cannotcontrol the thermal runaway.

Main HeadingSafety of Chemical Reactionsand Processes

Safety of Reactive Chemicals,Explosives, Lithium Batteries

Heat, fire, explosion, pressure generation:all features of undesired reactions.

Reactive Chemicals and Materials, Monomers, Resins,Peroxides, API’s Batteries and Explosives – all have thepotential to produce heat by exothermic reactions, thesetypically are unwanted. If the heat is not removed there isthe potential for a Runaway Reaction.

There is the need to understand the likelihood and toassess the impact of ‘undesired reactions’. This can bedone in the laboratory on a smaller scale with the aim tosimulate the scenario of what can happen in real life onany larger industrial scale.

Such an understanding of energy release from chemicalreactions and the potential for runaway reactions is vitallyimportant in many branches of the Chemical & AlliedIndustries. When the heat generated by a chemicalprocess is greater than the possible heat removal, thetemperature will rise with perhaps catastrophic effect! Itis an adiabatic calorimeter that can simulate suchunknown exothermic runaway reactions, mimicking whatcan happen on large scale and giving worst case data;data obtained under zero-heat loss conditions.

The true ARC, originally developed by Dow Chemical inthe USA, is the famous, the most well known and theworld's most widely used adiabatic safety calorimeter.The ARC will provide full information on heat andpressure release showing the likelihood of self-heating,exothermic and the potential for a runaway reactionoccurring. The ARC results will also enable optimumconditions to be employed to allow inherently saferoperation. Only when tests are conducted in a trulyadiabatic system (i.e. the ARC), is it possible to scale-upfrom the laboratory scale to any commercial scale.

What happens if a chemical or systemself heats?

Initially (near onset of self-heating) this reaction will beslow. In chemicals this gives a loss of yield, a shelf lifeissue. At this stage heat loss is likely to pose little potentialof a runaway and an explosion. However should thereaction accumulate heat it will accelerate and astemperature rises the rate of reaction will also increase. Ifthe reaction is not kept under control, a safety problemwill occur, which may result in explosion, loss of property,even human injury or death. It is necessary to remove thisheat of reaction to control the reaction. To maintaincontrol of the reaction the heat loss must be greater thanthe heat production.

It must be realised that for reactions obeying classicalkinetics the heat produced will increaseEXPONENTIALLY with temperature, but heat loss fromvessel will only increase LINEARLY with temperature.

T E M P E R A T U R E

TNR T1

ExplosionLoss of Property

SafetyLoss of Control

ProcessingLoss of Yield

StorageLoss of Assay

T I M E

Scales of Reaction

Process Development

Manufacturing

Transportation

Storage

In the Chemical Industry, for all potential RunawayReactions, heat loss possibility and environmentalconditions are important, scale is important…

A small vessel will lose more heat than a large vessel; thelarge vessel is more adiabatic. A reactive material in asmaller vessel will be stable to a higher temperature thanthe same material in a larger vessel. The same samplemay be safe in a beaker or drum – but may runaway ina tanker causing explosion. A battery may be stable as asingle unit – but as a battery pack in a black casedNotebook alongside heat-producing electroniccomponents heat output may raise the battery temperaturecausing disintegration and fire.

To simulate the real-life or large scale scenario, thesample under investigation must be in an environmentwithout heat loss (or gain). The adiabatic environmentbest reproduced in the ARC.

The temperature where the heat production exceeds theheat loss is the Temperature of No Return (TNR). There isnot just one TNR, this value will change as heat losspotential changes. Vary the environment and the TNR canbe reduced significantly. Heat generation is quantified bythe adiabatic calorimeter; the heat loss may be measuredor calculated. ARC test data can then be linked with heatloss information giving TNR, maximum pack size, SADT,maximum safe operating or storage temperature. Thisanswers questions such as:

Can the material be used safely?

Should conditions be modified?

Is your process safe? Is the storage safe?

Should smaller containers be used?

Is the material safe to transport in such scalein hot countries?

Is the battery safe?

THERE IS A VITAL NEED FOR ADIABATIC SAFETY DATAFROM THE ARC TO ANSWER SUCH QUESTIONS.

ARC technology was first devised 30 years ago, time hasmoved on – but the potential hazard of chemicals,intermediates, pharmaceuticals, monomer, and explosivesremains. But new hazardous materials are now in use.

In addition one well-known new ARC application isLithium Batteries. Lithium Batteries have the potential torunaway for more than one reason. Their chemistry ishazardous; lithium ions on carbon anodes, flammableelectrolyte, unstable de-lithiated oxide materials (cathode)and a battery that will contain the highest charge density.

Clearly the need to assess safety of chemicals, materials,systems and even batteries for their potential to self-heathas never been greater. There has never been a timewhen there is greater need for data obtained byadiabatic calorimetry as supplied by the THT ARC, theworld benchmark Adiabatic Safety Calorimeter.

Self-heating of a reaction and heat loss from 3 vessels,A, B and C is illustrated below.

A can control the sample to temp T1, B will control thesample at the critical temperature, TNR and C cannotcontrol the thermal runaway.

Main HeadingSafety of Chemical Reactionsand Processes

Safety of Reactive Chemicals,Explosives, Lithium Batteries

Heat, fire, explosion, pressure generation:all features of undesired reactions.

Reactive Chemicals and Materials, Monomers, Resins,Peroxides, API’s Batteries and Explosives – all have thepotential to produce heat by exothermic reactions, thesetypically are unwanted. If the heat is not removed there isthe potential for a Runaway Reaction.

There is the need to understand the likelihood and toassess the impact of ‘undesired reactions’. This can bedone in the laboratory on a smaller scale with the aim tosimulate the scenario of what can happen in real life onany larger industrial scale.

Such an understanding of energy release from chemicalreactions and the potential for runaway reactions is vitallyimportant in many branches of the Chemical & AlliedIndustries. When the heat generated by a chemicalprocess is greater than the possible heat removal, thetemperature will rise with perhaps catastrophic effect! Itis an adiabatic calorimeter that can simulate suchunknown exothermic runaway reactions, mimicking whatcan happen on large scale and giving worst case data;data obtained under zero-heat loss conditions.

The true ARC, originally developed by Dow Chemical inthe USA, is the famous, the most well known and theworld's most widely used adiabatic safety calorimeter.The ARC will provide full information on heat andpressure release showing the likelihood of self-heating,exothermic and the potential for a runaway reactionoccurring. The ARC results will also enable optimumconditions to be employed to allow inherently saferoperation. Only when tests are conducted in a trulyadiabatic system (i.e. the ARC), is it possible to scale-upfrom the laboratory scale to any commercial scale.

What happens if a chemical or systemself heats?

Initially (near onset of self-heating) this reaction will beslow. In chemicals this gives a loss of yield, a shelf lifeissue. At this stage heat loss is likely to pose little potentialof a runaway and an explosion. However should thereaction accumulate heat it will accelerate and astemperature rises the rate of reaction will also increase. Ifthe reaction is not kept under control, a safety problemwill occur, which may result in explosion, loss of property,even human injury or death. It is necessary to remove thisheat of reaction to control the reaction. To maintaincontrol of the reaction the heat loss must be greater thanthe heat production.

It must be realised that for reactions obeying classicalkinetics the heat produced will increaseEXPONENTIALLY with temperature, but heat loss fromvessel will only increase LINEARLY with temperature.

T E M P E R A T U R E

TNR T1

ExplosionLoss of Property

SafetyLoss of Control

ProcessingLoss of Yield

StorageLoss of Assay

T I M E

In use the sample is contained in a holder often a metalARC Bomb, a sphere 2.5cm in diameter of Titanium orHastelloy C. The sample mass is typically 2-8g but theamount of sample used depends upon the expectedenergy release and type of sample container used. Thebomb is attached to the lid section on the calorimeterassembly by a pressure fitting and a line leads to thepressure transducer. A thermocouple is attached to theouter surface of the bomb. The lid section of thecalorimeter rests on the base section. The calorimeter hasthree separate controlled zones. The top (lid section)contains two heaters and a thermocouple, the side zonecontains four heaters and a thermocouple and the bottomzone in the calorimeter base contains two heaters and athermocouple. After set up and connection, thecalorimeter is sealed inside an explosion proofcontainment vessel. Test set up is simple; the hardware isready to go. Experimental conditions are entered into thecontroller, a current specification workstation, this takesonly 2 or 3 minutes then the test can be commenced.There are few test conditions that have to be specified –a Start Temperature and an End Temperature, plus the‘Heat Steps' (usually 3°C or 5°C), the 'Wait Time'(typically 10-30 minutes) and ‘Detection Sensitivity'(usually 0.01°C/min or 0.02°C/min).

The system will at first heat to the Start Temperature. To dothis, a small heater in the calorimeter, the radiant heater,applies heat. This heats the sample, bomb and itsthermocouple. The calorimeter is cooler and thistemperature difference is observed by the threecalorimeter thermocouples. The system will then applypower to the calorimeter heaters to minimise thetemperature difference. This will continue as thetemperature rises to the Start Temperature. When this StartTemperature is reached, the system will go into a Waitperiod, during this time no heat is provided by the radiantheater. This allows the temperature differences within thecalorimeter to be reduced to zero.

The calorimeter operates at all times in a quasi-adiabaticmode; the calorimeter temperature tracks the sampletemperature. This Wait period is followed by the Seekperiod. Again during this period (typically 20 minutes) noheat is provided by the radiant heater, and anytemperature drift, upwards or downwards, is recorded.

If there is no upward temperature drift, the unit willimplement a Heat step. This Heat-Wait-Seek procedure isthe normal mode of operation of the ARC. It will continueuntil, at a certain temperature, an upward temperaturedrift is observed. This is likely to be from self-heating of thesample; exothermic reaction. When this temperature riseis at a rate greater than the selected sensitivity the systemautomatically switches to the Exotherm mode.

The system will then apply heat to the calorimeter jacketto keep its temperature the same as the bomb/sample– i.e. the calorimeter tracks the exothermic temperaturerise adiabatically.

This adiabatic control and the ability to maintain thecalorimeter to hundredths of a degree similar to thebomb is the key feature of the ARC. The system continuesin the Exotherm mode until the rate of self-heatingreduces and becomes less than the chosen sensitivity. Atthis stage the Heat-Wait-Seek procedure will resume.When the End Temperature is reached (or an EndPressure is reached) the test automatically stops. Rapidcooling, by compressed air, will begin. The aim of theARC is to complete the test to get a full time, temperature,and pressure profile of the exothermic reaction in a safeand controlled manner, typically within a time period of24 hours.

Main HeadingESARC

Devised by Dow Chemical Company in the 1970’s, anexplosion at a Dow UK site led to commercialisation ofARC technology. The Chemical Processing Industry hasbeen safer from its first availability in 1980! The ARC hasspecific features and advantages that make it unique andpreferable to all other technologies that were available atthis time – and today 30 years later this technology is stillthe number one choice for most people focusing in thisarea of quantifying exothermic reactions, effect of heatupon materials and simulating runaway reactions.

THT has played the major role in ARC technologydevelopment and THT has continuously kept ARCtechnology in manufacture.

THT has produced up-to-date instruments and hasextended and enhanced the technology as requested, byusers. THT has worked with users worldwide tounderstand their needs and to develop new products andopportunities.

Key Aspects of the ARC:

Excellent Adiabatic Control

Universal Sample Type

Ultimate Sensitivity

Ease of Use

Simplified Data Analysis

Widespread acceptance ofARC Data worldwide

Safe in Use

And Latest Features:

Greater Stability,Higher Sensitivity

Wider Temperature Range

More Versatile IsothermalModes

Remote Operation worldwide

Virtual Technician

Endotherms/Exotherms

Zero Reflux

Gas Flow

Low Phi containers

Additional Larger Calorimeters

Options for Battery Applications

In use the sample is contained in a holder often a metalARC Bomb, a sphere 2.5cm in diameter of Titanium orHastelloy C. The sample mass is typically 2-8g but theamount of sample used depends upon the expectedenergy release and type of sample container used. Thebomb is attached to the lid section on the calorimeterassembly by a pressure fitting and a line leads to thepressure transducer. A thermocouple is attached to theouter surface of the bomb. The lid section of thecalorimeter rests on the base section. The calorimeter hasthree separate controlled zones. The top (lid section)contains two heaters and a thermocouple, the side zonecontains four heaters and a thermocouple and the bottomzone in the calorimeter base contains two heaters and athermocouple. After set up and connection, thecalorimeter is sealed inside an explosion proofcontainment vessel. Test set up is simple; the hardware isready to go. Experimental conditions are entered into thecontroller, a current specification workstation, this takesonly 2 or 3 minutes then the test can be commenced.There are few test conditions that have to be specified –a Start Temperature and an End Temperature, plus the‘Heat Steps' (usually 3°C or 5°C), the 'Wait Time'(typically 10-30 minutes) and ‘Detection Sensitivity'(usually 0.01°C/min or 0.02°C/min).

The system will at first heat to the Start Temperature. To dothis, a small heater in the calorimeter, the radiant heater,applies heat. This heats the sample, bomb and itsthermocouple. The calorimeter is cooler and thistemperature difference is observed by the threecalorimeter thermocouples. The system will then applypower to the calorimeter heaters to minimise thetemperature difference. This will continue as thetemperature rises to the Start Temperature. When this StartTemperature is reached, the system will go into a Waitperiod, during this time no heat is provided by the radiantheater. This allows the temperature differences within thecalorimeter to be reduced to zero.

The calorimeter operates at all times in a quasi-adiabaticmode; the calorimeter temperature tracks the sampletemperature. This Wait period is followed by the Seekperiod. Again during this period (typically 20 minutes) noheat is provided by the radiant heater, and anytemperature drift, upwards or downwards, is recorded.

If there is no upward temperature drift, the unit willimplement a Heat step. This Heat-Wait-Seek procedure isthe normal mode of operation of the ARC. It will continueuntil, at a certain temperature, an upward temperaturedrift is observed. This is likely to be from self-heating of thesample; exothermic reaction. When this temperature riseis at a rate greater than the selected sensitivity the systemautomatically switches to the Exotherm mode.

The system will then apply heat to the calorimeter jacketto keep its temperature the same as the bomb/sample– i.e. the calorimeter tracks the exothermic temperaturerise adiabatically.

This adiabatic control and the ability to maintain thecalorimeter to hundredths of a degree similar to thebomb is the key feature of the ARC. The system continuesin the Exotherm mode until the rate of self-heatingreduces and becomes less than the chosen sensitivity. Atthis stage the Heat-Wait-Seek procedure will resume.When the End Temperature is reached (or an EndPressure is reached) the test automatically stops. Rapidcooling, by compressed air, will begin. The aim of theARC is to complete the test to get a full time, temperature,and pressure profile of the exothermic reaction in a safeand controlled manner, typically within a time period of24 hours.

Main HeadingESARC

Devised by Dow Chemical Company in the 1970’s, anexplosion at a Dow UK site led to commercialisation ofARC technology. The Chemical Processing Industry hasbeen safer from its first availability in 1980! The ARC hasspecific features and advantages that make it unique andpreferable to all other technologies that were available atthis time – and today 30 years later this technology is stillthe number one choice for most people focusing in thisarea of quantifying exothermic reactions, effect of heatupon materials and simulating runaway reactions.

THT has played the major role in ARC technologydevelopment and THT has continuously kept ARCtechnology in manufacture.

THT has produced up-to-date instruments and hasextended and enhanced the technology as requested, byusers. THT has worked with users worldwide tounderstand their needs and to develop new products andopportunities.

Key Aspects of the ARC:

Excellent Adiabatic Control

Universal Sample Type

Ultimate Sensitivity

Ease of Use

Simplified Data Analysis

Widespread acceptance ofARC Data worldwide

Safe in Use

And Latest Features:

Greater Stability,Higher Sensitivity

Wider Temperature Range

More Versatile IsothermalModes

Remote Operation worldwide

Virtual Technician

Endotherms/Exotherms

Zero Reflux

Gas Flow

Low Phi containers

Additional Larger Calorimeters

Options for Battery Applications

Main HeadingESARC Operation of the ARC

THT ARC Hallmarks…

Continuity

Enhancement

Expansion

Safe in Use

1 Cubic Metre Containment Vessel

3mm Reinforced Steel

Door Interlock

Proximity Switch

Software Shut Down Facilities

Fume Extraction Automated

All Explosions Contained

Rugged and Robust Construction

Ease of Use

10 Minute Set Up

Intuitive Labview Software

Large Working Volume

Versatile in Use

Any Sample Type

Many Sample Holders

Exotherms, Endotherms

Isothermal, Isoperibolic

Gas Atmosphere, Vacuum

Real Time Operations SoftwareSet Up, Control and On-the-Fly Changing

The set-up of a test is carried out by entry ofinformation into user-friendly screens. This will includeinformation on the sample and the bomb and then thetest conditions. Most are ‘default values’, minimizingdata entry. Click Start Test and the test willcommence. At any time conditions may be changed(on-the-fly); at any time the Mode may be manuallychanged. Data is immediately seen on the screen inall graphical and tabular forms. There is a Messagesfile that records all appropriate test information. Thesoftware allows start delay, and the set up of anynumber of tests to start at the click of a button. Thecontrol workstation can be made dormant and thecontrol switched to any allowed PC anywhere in theworld. The current data can be broadcast to anynumber of networked computers. The data is incolumn and row format. After the test, the shut downis similarly simple, cooling and fume extraction willcome on automatically. The ESARC has latest user-friendly real time software.

ARC Operation – has never been so easy and elegant8

Heat Wait Seek Operation;Adiabatic Control

The logic of Heat-Wait-Seek operation is shown, at allstages the system controls adiabatically.

With conditions of NO HEAT LOSS or gain, the datafrom an exotherm reaction is ‘WORST CASE’ DATA. Inthis way the ARC gives a SIMULATION of what canhappen.

This worst case data may then be extrapolated reliably toany industrial or commercial larger scale.

As there is no heat loss, the data can be used in anysimulation, to determine the possibility of what canhappen for any heat loss scenario.

The three Screen illustrations show the Real Time Softwareof the ESARC. There are two main ‘Tabs’. The topillustration shows the Control Tab; here the ‘virtualinstrument’ is displayed. All temperatures and pressure areshown, there are heater lights that flash and all usefulexperimental information is given. From here conditionscan be changed during the test. The Data Tab, lower twoillustrations, has several ‘sub-Tabs’. Shown here are theTemp-Time display and the Tabulated Data display. Herethe data can be inspected during the test.

As the test proceeds typically exothermic reactioncommences. This is shown in the annotated illustration. Atlow temperatures there is no reaction, the temperature inthe Seek period is constant, i.e. no reaction. Whenreaction commences there is indication of temperatureincrease in the Seek period; initially the rate of self-heating, as indicated, will be below the onset Sensitivity.At a higher temperature, when the self-heating is fasterthan the sensitivity, the ARC switches automatically toExotherm mode.

H E A T

W A I T C O O L I D L E

S E E K

EXOTHERM

start test

if T>Tf

dT/dt<onset

dt<onset

dT/dt>onset

end test

No reaction

T I M E ( m i n u t e s )

Exotherm

Some Reaction, below sensitivity

100200 250 300 350 400 450 500

As the testproceeds TheControl Tab showsthe Test Status andall test information– with options formanualmodifications etc.

As the testproceeds all datacan be viewed.Note the ‘SubTabs’...for TempRate, Pressure,Tabulated Data,Messages etc.

Main HeadingESARC Operation of the ARC

THT ARC Hallmarks…

Continuity

Enhancement

Expansion

Safe in Use

1 Cubic Metre Containment Vessel

3mm Reinforced Steel

Door Interlock

Proximity Switch

Software Shut Down Facilities

Fume Extraction Automated

All Explosions Contained

Rugged and Robust Construction

Ease of Use

10 Minute Set Up

Intuitive Labview Software

Large Working Volume

Versatile in Use

Any Sample Type

Many Sample Holders

Exotherms, Endotherms

Isothermal, Isoperibolic

Gas Atmosphere, Vacuum

Real Time Operations SoftwareSet Up, Control and On-the-Fly Changing

The set-up of a test is carried out by entry ofinformation into user-friendly screens. This will includeinformation on the sample and the bomb and then thetest conditions. Most are ‘default values’, minimizingdata entry. Click Start Test and the test willcommence. At any time conditions may be changed(on-the-fly); at any time the Mode may be manuallychanged. Data is immediately seen on the screen inall graphical and tabular forms. There is a Messagesfile that records all appropriate test information. Thesoftware allows start delay, and the set up of anynumber of tests to start at the click of a button. Thecontrol workstation can be made dormant and thecontrol switched to any allowed PC anywhere in theworld. The current data can be broadcast to anynumber of networked computers. The data is incolumn and row format. After the test, the shut downis similarly simple, cooling and fume extraction willcome on automatically. The ESARC has latest user-friendly real time software.

ARC Operation – has never been so easy and elegant8

Heat Wait Seek Operation;Adiabatic Control

The logic of Heat-Wait-Seek operation is shown, at allstages the system controls adiabatically.

With conditions of NO HEAT LOSS or gain, the datafrom an exotherm reaction is ‘WORST CASE’ DATA. Inthis way the ARC gives a SIMULATION of what canhappen.

This worst case data may then be extrapolated reliably toany industrial or commercial larger scale.

As there is no heat loss, the data can be used in anysimulation, to determine the possibility of what canhappen for any heat loss scenario.

The three Screen illustrations show the Real Time Softwareof the ESARC. There are two main ‘Tabs’. The topillustration shows the Control Tab; here the ‘virtualinstrument’ is displayed. All temperatures and pressure areshown, there are heater lights that flash and all usefulexperimental information is given. From here conditionscan be changed during the test. The Data Tab, lower twoillustrations, has several ‘sub-Tabs’. Shown here are theTemp-Time display and the Tabulated Data display. Herethe data can be inspected during the test.

As the test proceeds typically exothermic reactioncommences. This is shown in the annotated illustration. Atlow temperatures there is no reaction, the temperature inthe Seek period is constant, i.e. no reaction. Whenreaction commences there is indication of temperatureincrease in the Seek period; initially the rate of self-heating, as indicated, will be below the onset Sensitivity.At a higher temperature, when the self-heating is fasterthan the sensitivity, the ARC switches automatically toExotherm mode.

H E A T

W A I T C O O L I D L E

S E E K

EXOTHERM

start test

if T>Tf

dT/dt<onset

dt<onset

dT/dt>onset

end test

No reaction

T I M E ( m i n u t e s )

Exotherm

Some Reaction, below sensitivity

100200 250 300 350 400 450 500

As the testproceeds TheControl Tab showsthe Test Status andall test information– with options formanualmodifications etc.

As the testproceeds all datacan be viewed.Note the ‘SubTabs’...for TempRate, Pressure,Tabulated Data,Messages etc.

During the test, Time, Temperature, PressureData is stored... together with the 14 further columnsof data (e.g. calorimeter jacket temperature, mode,heater power)

As an exothermic reaction proceeds the sampletemperature increases, the bomb thermocouple senses atemperature higher than that of the calorimeter. Thesignals are fed-back and when the calorimetertemperatures are found to be low, heat is supplied to thecalorimeter heaters. The calorimeter follows thebomb/sample adiabatically; tracking is to 0.01°C – anadiabaticity higher than in any other technology, makingthe ESARC the benchmark safety calorimeter.

The data is Time, Temperature and Pressure, but from thismany potential data analyses are possible. From oneARC test the information is very extensive as listed below;Raw data, Converted data, Phi Corrected data,Calculated data (Time to Explosion), Thermokinetic data;Applied data.

One ARC test will answer many questions…

The questions

Is there a thermal hazard?At what temperature does it begin?How many processes;Simple or complex mechanism?Is there an effect of impurity or additive?How fast does it occur? (The kinetics).How big an event is it? (The thermodynamics).At what temperature will all control be lost?What time is there before explosion?How much pressure develops?At what rate does pressure increase?

The conclusions

How to control the process.How to regain control if this is lost.How much time is there for corrective action?How much time is there for evacuation?Which temperature should alarms be set.What is the Temperature of No Return.What is the Time to Explosion.What is the critical radius of storage vessel.Evaluation of catalyst, inhibitor, accelerator,impurity.Determination of reaction kinetics andthermodynamics.Information for relief vent sizing.

Main HeadingOperation of the ARC Data; Standard Sample 20% DTBP

T I M E ( m i n )

114.000400.00 410.00 420.00 430.00 440.00 450.00 460.00 470.00 480.00 490.00 500.00 510.00

115.000

116.000

117.000

118.000

119.000

120.000

121.000

122.000TEMPERATURETOP TEMPERATURESIDE TEMPERATUREBOTTOM TEMPERATURE

T I M E ( m i n )

117.150437.00 438.00 439.00 440.00 441.00 442.00 443.00 444.00 445.00 446.00 447.00 448.00 449.00

117.200

117.250

117.300

117.350

117.400

117.450

117.500

Raw Data Graphs

Temperature vs TimePressure vs TimeTemp Rate vs I/TPressure Rate vs I/TPressure vs TemperatureLog Pressure vs I/TTemp Rate vs Press Rate

Converted Graphs

Enthalpy vs TimePower vs I/TGas Generation vs TimeGas Generation Rate vs I/T

Calculated Graphs

Time to Maximum RatePseudo Zero Order EaKinetic Model of SHRCalculated Tabulated DataKinetic values; Ea, nHeat of Reaction

Phi Corrected Graphs

All Raw Data graphsTemp, Time & Rate graphsAll converted graphsEnthalpy, Power,Gas GenerationTime to Maximum RatePhi Corrected Tabulated Data

T E M P E R AT U R E

P R E S S U R E

T I M E

DTBP, di-tertiary butyl peroxide, is an organic peroxidethat has been used over many years as the standardsample to evaluate the performance of the ARC. Thissample gives a simple decomposition that is wellcharacterized. The sample is diluted with toluene to aconcentration of 20%. Standard conditions areemployed, e.g. 6 grams mass. The result can be simplyanalysed – there are two files to consider; the real timedata file (*.dat) that contains all data and the exothermonly data file (*.exo). Typically real time datasets areused to consider instrument performance, exotherm filesare used for analysis.

Real Time Data

Data Analysis software is based upon NationalInstruments Labview™. The four graphs illustratetemperature and pressure data plot against time, withcalorimeter zone temperatures. This is the informationthat illustrates the test completely and shows the qualityof the data and performance of the instrument.

All further analysis is carried out with the exothermdata file. The illustrations below are ‘screen shots’ froma test and illustrate the software features.

The data shows the course of the experiment with time.The data both before and after the exothermic reactioncan be seen. At low temperature, reaction below theexothermic threshold may be noted and at highertemperatures the calibration accuracy of the instrumentcan be confirmed. By noting the pressure below theexotherm (and above) any indication of a leak can beobserved – or it may be that there is pressure generatedfrom a non-exothermic process.

T I M E ( m i n )

180780 800 820 840 860 880 900 920 940 960 980 1000 1020 1040

218216

PRESSURETEMPERATURE

T I M E ( m i n )

300 310 320 330 340 350 360 370 380 390 400 410 420 430 440 450 460 470 480

TEMPERATURETOP TEMPERATURESIDE TEMPERATUREBOTTOM TEMPERATURE

Detection of Exotherm

Tracking of Exotherm

Zoomed to show Data After Exotherm

The Complete Data Illustrated

Zoomed to show ‘Onset’ of Exotherm

During the test, Time, Temperature, PressureData is stored... together with the 14 further columnsof data (e.g. calorimeter jacket temperature, mode,heater power)

As an exothermic reaction proceeds the sampletemperature increases, the bomb thermocouple senses atemperature higher than that of the calorimeter. Thesignals are fed-back and when the calorimetertemperatures are found to be low, heat is supplied to thecalorimeter heaters. The calorimeter follows thebomb/sample adiabatically; tracking is to 0.01°C – anadiabaticity higher than in any other technology, makingthe ESARC the benchmark safety calorimeter.

The data is Time, Temperature and Pressure, but from thismany potential data analyses are possible. From oneARC test the information is very extensive as listed below;Raw data, Converted data, Phi Corrected data,Calculated data (Time to Explosion), Thermokinetic data;Applied data.

One ARC test will answer many questions…

The questions

Is there a thermal hazard?At what temperature does it begin?How many processes;Simple or complex mechanism?Is there an effect of impurity or additive?How fast does it occur? (The kinetics).How big an event is it? (The thermodynamics).At what temperature will all control be lost?What time is there before explosion?How much pressure develops?At what rate does pressure increase?

The conclusions

How to control the process.How to regain control if this is lost.How much time is there for corrective action?How much time is there for evacuation?Which temperature should alarms be set.What is the Temperature of No Return.What is the Time to Explosion.What is the critical radius of storage vessel.Evaluation of catalyst, inhibitor, accelerator,impurity.Determination of reaction kinetics andthermodynamics.Information for relief vent sizing.

Main HeadingOperation of the ARC Data; Standard Sample 20% DTBP

T I M E ( m i n )

114.000400.00 410.00 420.00 430.00 440.00 450.00 460.00 470.00 480.00 490.00 500.00 510.00

115.000

116.000

117.000

118.000

119.000

120.000

121.000

T I M E ( m i n )

117.150437.00 438.00 439.00 440.00 441.00 442.00 443.00 444.00 445.00 446.00 447.00 448.00 449.00

117.200

117.250

117.300

117.350

117.400

117.450

117.500

Raw Data Graphs

Temperature vs TimePressure vs TimeTemp Rate vs I/TPressure Rate vs I/TPressure vs TemperatureLog Pressure vs I/TTemp Rate vs Press Rate

Converted Graphs

Enthalpy vs TimePower vs I/TGas Generation vs TimeGas Generation Rate vs I/T

Calculated Graphs

Time to Maximum RatePseudo Zero Order EaKinetic Model of SHRCalculated Tabulated DataKinetic values; Ea, nHeat of Reaction

Phi Corrected Graphs

All Raw Data graphsTemp, Time & Rate graphsAll converted graphsEnthalpy, Power,Gas GenerationTime to Maximum RatePhi Corrected Tabulated Data

T E M P E R AT U R E

P R E S S U R E

T I M E

DTBP, di-tertiary butyl peroxide, is an organic peroxidethat has been used over many years as the standardsample to evaluate the performance of the ARC. Thissample gives a simple decomposition that is wellcharacterized. The sample is diluted with toluene to aconcentration of 20%. Standard conditions areemployed, e.g. 6 grams mass. The result can be simplyanalysed – there are two files to consider; the real timedata file (*.dat) that contains all data and the exothermonly data file (*.exo). Typically real time datasets areused to consider instrument performance, exotherm filesare used for analysis.

Real Time Data

Data Analysis software is based upon NationalInstruments Labview™. The four graphs illustratetemperature and pressure data plot against time, withcalorimeter zone temperatures. This is the informationthat illustrates the test completely and shows the qualityof the data and performance of the instrument.

All further analysis is carried out with the exothermdata file. The illustrations below are ‘screen shots’ froma test and illustrate the software features.

The data shows the course of the experiment with time.The data both before and after the exothermic reactioncan be seen. At low temperature, reaction below theexothermic threshold may be noted and at highertemperatures the calibration accuracy of the instrumentcan be confirmed. By noting the pressure below theexotherm (and above) any indication of a leak can beobserved – or it may be that there is pressure generatedfrom a non-exothermic process.

T I M E ( m i n )

180780 800 820 840 860 880 900 920 940 960 980 1000 1020 1040

218216

PRESSURETEMPERATURE

T I M E ( m i n )

300 310 320 330 340 350 360 370 380 390 400 410 420 430 440 450 460 470 480

TEMPERATURETOP TEMPERATURESIDE TEMPERATUREBOTTOM TEMPERATURE

Detection of Exotherm

Zoomed to show Data After Exotherm

The Complete Data Illustrated

Zoomed to show ‘Onset’ of Exotherm

Main HeadingData; Standard Sample 20% DTBP

Exotherm Data

Analysis of Exotherm data can generate many graphs.Data is also available in Tabular form and there is thepossibility to merge data sets. Results of all analyses canthen be written to a Report; this may be Microsoft Word,Excel or html format.

Raw Data Graphs

These are Temperature and Pressure, Self-Heat Rate,Pressure Rate Graphs: The self-heat rate and pressuregraphs are those most used for analysis; they show allfeatures illustrated on other raw data graphs and muchmore, e.g. onset of reaction, rate at any temperature, itsmagnitude and complexity, single or multiple reactions,autocatalysis, maximum rate. By knowing the rate at anytemperature first knowledge is obtained on coolingrequirements, by knowing pressure rise the potential forexplosion can be realised.

Converted Graphs

Conversion of the measured units to Enthalpy, Power, Gasgeneration allow the reaction to be assessed in units thatare well known and have more specific relevance.

Calculated Graphs

Time to Maximum Rate is a key graph obtained from theARC test; this indicates time available prior to explosionand from this graph, phi corrected, and with knowledgeof heat loss from the container or vessel, maximum safetemperate or vessel size can be determined. From thisgraph the SADT can be determined and Temperature ofNo Return values calculated. Kinetic Model graphs andassociated tabular data can be calculated when the dataobeys classical kinetics. This allows Activation Energy,Order of Reaction, Heat of Reaction to be obtained witha graph that indicates the quality of the kinetic fit and thusthe reliability of the result.

Phi (Φ) Corrected Graphs

When kinetic modelling is achieved, the model is used toperform phi correction. Φ corrected graphs are availablefor all raw data graphs and all converted graphs. The Φcorrected result can be plotted on the same graph as theraw data illustrating the effect of heat loss into the Bombduring the ARC test.

Merged Data Graphs

ARCCal+ the data analysis software from THT, will allowup to 9 data sets to be opened in any one application;from all of these 3 separate analyses are possible. It isthen possible to select any or all of the data sets to bemerged and carry out such merging 3 times to produce 3separate merge data sets. Subsequent to this the workcan be saved as a Project or Reports may be generatedincorporating any number of the open datasets.

T I M E ( m i n )

350 8000

T E M P E R A T U R E ( ° C )

0.60.50.40.30.2

0.060.050.040.030.02

0.0040.006

110 120 130 140 150 160 170 180 190 200

POWERGAS PRODUCTION RATE

T I M E ( m i n )

350 400 450 500 550 600 650 700 750 800

225220

205200

185180

165160

145140

115110

125120

Phi CORRECTED TEMPERATURE RATEPhi CORRECTED PRESSURE RATETEMPERATURE RATEPRESSURE RATE

T E M P E R A T U R E ( C ° )TE

0.20.30.4

10203040

0.030.02

110 120 140 160 180 200 220 230

T I M E ( m i n )

350 800

in) 120

110 250 300 350 400 450 200

Te m p e r a t u r e ( C ° )

0.20.30.40.5

0.050.040.030.02

110 120 130 140 150 160 170 180 190 200

TEMPERATURE RATEPRESSURE RATE

T I M E T O M A X R A T E ( m i n )

0.1 1 50 100 1000 106

EXTRAPOLATED BY COMPUTER FITPhi-CORRECTED TEMPERATURE

Raw Data; Temperature and Pressure Rate

Two Converted Data Graphs

Enthalpy as a Function of Time Power & Gas Production Rate as a Function of Temperature

Phi corrected Temperature and Pressure Phi corrected Temperature Rate and Pressure Rate

Two Φ Corrected Data Graphs

Two Merged Data Graphs (3 data sets)

Calculated Data, Phi-Corrected Time to Explosion

Phi (Φ) Correction. In any adiabatic test, heat is lost intothe sample container. Correction can be made to thefully adiabatic situation, the phi correction. A keyadvantage of the ARC is the ability to test a much widerrange of sample types than other calorimeters.

Φ = 1 + (mb Cpb / ms Cps)Tests may be carried out with low energy samples inlarge volume containers, Φ may be 1.10, tests can becarried out with energetic samples; liquids, solids,slurries, etc, with smaller sample mass where Φ may be2, 5, 10, even higher. This is very important forexplosive materials.

The ability of the ARC to test such a wide range of Φvalues make it unique and gives the technologyunrivalled flexibility and versatility.

Main HeadingData; Standard Sample 20% DTBP

Exotherm Data

Analysis of Exotherm data can generate many graphs.Data is also available in Tabular form and there is thepossibility to merge data sets. Results of all analyses canthen be written to a Report; this may be Microsoft Word,Excel or html format.

Raw Data Graphs

These are Temperature and Pressure, Self-Heat Rate,Pressure Rate Graphs: The self-heat rate and pressuregraphs are those most used for analysis; they show allfeatures illustrated on other raw data graphs and muchmore, e.g. onset of reaction, rate at any temperature, itsmagnitude and complexity, single or multiple reactions,autocatalysis, maximum rate. By knowing the rate at anytemperature first knowledge is obtained on coolingrequirements, by knowing pressure rise the potential forexplosion can be realised.

Converted Graphs

Conversion of the measured units to Enthalpy, Power, Gasgeneration allow the reaction to be assessed in units thatare well known and have more specific relevance.

Calculated Graphs

Time to Maximum Rate is a key graph obtained from theARC test; this indicates time available prior to explosionand from this graph, phi corrected, and with knowledgeof heat loss from the container or vessel, maximum safetemperate or vessel size can be determined. From thisgraph the SADT can be determined and Temperature ofNo Return values calculated. Kinetic Model graphs andassociated tabular data can be calculated when the dataobeys classical kinetics. This allows Activation Energy,Order of Reaction, Heat of Reaction to be obtained witha graph that indicates the quality of the kinetic fit and thusthe reliability of the result.

Phi (Φ) Corrected Graphs

When kinetic modelling is achieved, the model is used toperform phi correction. Φ corrected graphs are availablefor all raw data graphs and all converted graphs. The Φcorrected result can be plotted on the same graph as theraw data illustrating the effect of heat loss into the Bombduring the ARC test.

Merged Data Graphs

ARCCal+ the data analysis software from THT, will allowup to 9 data sets to be opened in any one application;from all of these 3 separate analyses are possible. It isthen possible to select any or all of the data sets to bemerged and carry out such merging 3 times to produce 3separate merge data sets. Subsequent to this the workcan be saved as a Project or Reports may be generatedincorporating any number of the open datasets.

T I M E ( m i n )

350 8000

T E M P E R A T U R E ( ° C )P

0.60.50.40.30.2

0.060.050.040.030.02

0.0040.006

110 120 130 140 150 160 170 180 190 200

POWERGAS PRODUCTION RATE

T I M E ( m i n )

350 400 450 500 550 600 650 700 750 800

225220

205200

185180

165160

145140

115110

125120

0.20.30.4

10203040

0.030.02

110 120 140 160 180 200 220 230

T I M E ( m i n )

350 800

in) 120

110 250 300 350 400 450 200

Te m p e r a t u r e ( C ° )

0.20.30.40.5

0.050.040.030.02

110 120 130 140 150 160 170 180 190 200

T I M E T O M A X R A T E ( m i n )

0.1 1 50 100 1000 106

EXTRAPOLATED BY COMPUTER FITPhi-CORRECTED TEMPERATURE

Raw Data; Temperature and Pressure Rate

Two Converted Data Graphs

Enthalpy as a Function of Time Power & Gas Production Rate as a Function of Temperature

Phi corrected Temperature and Pressure Phi corrected Temperature Rate and Pressure Rate

Two Φ Corrected Data Graphs

Two Merged Data Graphs (3 data sets)

Calculated Data, Phi-Corrected Time to Explosion

Phi (Φ) Correction. In any adiabatic test, heat is lost intothe sample container. Correction can be made to thefully adiabatic situation, the phi correction. A keyadvantage of the ARC is the ability to test a much widerrange of sample types than other calorimeters.

Φ = 1 + (mb Cpb / ms Cps)Tests may be carried out with low energy samples inlarge volume containers, Φ may be 1.10, tests can becarried out with energetic samples; liquids, solids,slurries, etc, with smaller sample mass where Φ may be2, 5, 10, even higher. This is very important forexplosive materials.

The ability of the ARC to test such a wide range of Φvalues make it unique and gives the technologyunrivalled flexibility and versatility.

Main HeadingApplications of the ARC

Monomers

Polymerisation reactions can be studied in the ARC. In thisapplication area, the reaction is controlled by usinginhibitors, accelerators and other additives. This is an areaof application where isothermal testing is often employed.The two illustrations below show a styrene monomersample held isothermally at 80°C (left) and at 75°C (right).At 75°C the reaction occurred after 65 hours, at 80°C thereaction occurred after 2 hours.

Explosives

Stability, onset of reaction, batch-to-batch variation,compatibility, ageing, all areas of interest in Civilian andMilitary explosives. This is an application area wellsuited to the ARC and where the ARC is extensively usedworldwide. The illustration, used with permission,illustrates a number of well known high explosives.

ORGANIC CHEMICALS

FINE CHEMICALS

PHARMACEUTICALS

BLEACHES MONOMERS

HIGH EXPLOSIVES,PROPELLANTS,PYROTECHNICS

BATTERIES

RESINS

PEROXIDES

DETERGENTS

DYESTUFFS

FERTILIZERS

BULK CHEMICALS

ADDITIVES

INTERMEDIATES

OIL (SHALE, CRUDE)

Reactive Chemicals

Peroxides, azo dyes, nitro compounds and others withreactive groups, plus intermediates and additives that containpotentially more than 2 or 3 reactive groups are the majortypes of sample tested in the ARC. Data is shown here forAIBN (an Azo initiator), Benzoyl Peroxide and NMTS, theoriginal sample tested and reported by Dow Chemical.

50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140 150

50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140 150 160

50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140 150

T I M E ( m i n )

0 100 200T I M E ( m i n )

0 1000 2000 3000 4000

ISO at 80ºCISO at 75ºC

h [ ° C / m i n ]

T [ ° C ]0.01

90 110 130 150 170 190 210 230 250

HNF lot 1ADN

Adiabatic Self Heating of Some Energetic Substances

Temperature Rate and Pressure Rateas a Function of Temperature

Temperature as a Function of Time Temperature as a Function of Time

Monomers

Polymerisation reactions can be studied in the ARC. In thisapplication area, the reaction is controlled by usinginhibitors, accelerators and other additives. This is an areaof application where isothermal testing is often employed.The two illustrations below show a styrene monomersample held isothermally at 80°C (left) and at 75°C (right).At 75°C the reaction occurred after 65 hours, at 80°C thereaction occurred after 2 hours.

Explosives

Stability, onset of reaction, batch-to-batch variation,compatibility, ageing, all areas of interest in Civilian andMilitary explosives. This is an application area wellsuited to the ARC and where the ARC is extensively usedworldwide. The illustration, used with permission,illustrates a number of well known high explosives.

ORGANIC CHEMICALS

FINE CHEMICALS

PHARMACEUTICALS

BLEACHES MONOMERS

HIGH EXPLOSIVES,PROPELLANTS,PYROTECHNICS

BATTERIES

RESINS

PEROXIDES

DETERGENTS

DYESTUFFS

FERTILIZERS

BULK CHEMICALS

ADDITIVES

INTERMEDIATES

OIL (SHALE, CRUDE)

Reactive Chemicals

Peroxides, azo dyes, nitro compounds and others withreactive groups, plus intermediates and additives that containpotentially more than 2 or 3 reactive groups are the majortypes of sample tested in the ARC. Data is shown here forAIBN (an Azo initiator), Benzoyl Peroxide and NMTS, theoriginal sample tested and reported by Dow Chemical.

50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140 150

50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140 150 160

50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140 150

T I M E ( m i n )

0 100 200T I M E ( m i n )

0 1000 2000 3000 4000

ISO at 80ºCISO at 75ºC

h [ ° C / m i n ]

T [ ° C ]0.01

90 110 130 150 170 190 210 230 250

HNF lot 1ADN

Adiabatic Self Heating of Some Energetic Substances

Temperature as a Function of Time Temperature as a Function of Time

Epoxy Resins – and Comparisonwith DSC Data

Epoxy resins are used universally and manufactured inbulk by many well known name companies: Ciba, Cytec,Hexcel, Shell. The results from 6 commercially availableresins are shown, three have DSC data superimposed. Allshow a curing reaction followed by a decomposition. TheARC results illustrate the thermal differences in onset, heatrelease and rate of heat release. Comparing ARC withDSC illustrates the benefit of ARC testing; the clearest andmost striking conclusion is that DSC shows reaction onsetat significantly higher temperature.

Intermediate Selection

In production processes there is often a choice ofintermediates and there may be various catalysts or otheradditives that can be used. The stability of all choices andtheir effect on the reaction has to be determined. The ARCis a good choice; illustrated by a comparative set of sixdifferent materials. It can be seen that self-heat rate andpressure are good parameters for comparison,temperature-time is less appropriate.

In the variety of sample types that can be tested, the versatility of the ARC is unrivalled. The ARC is uniquely able toassess the Chemical Reactivity and Runaway potential of materials from low to high energies. Sample may be testedin the solid form, liquid form or slurries, pastes and mixtures – from sub gram to above 100 gram samples. Reactionof gas to liquids and solids and testing at high pressures, testing with a flow of gas is possible, with stirring and withdosing, measuring pressure as well as temperature.

Oil (Oxidation)

The characteristics of oil samples are important,particularly when Enhanced Oilfield Recovery techniquesare being used such as in situ combustion. Oils have lowand high temperature oxidation regions. ARC testing istypically carried out at very high initial pressure (e.g.100bar). Testing is carried out with the oil alone or withrock and water. Graphs below indicate differing oils andtheir interactions.

T I M E ( m i n )

1000 500 1000 1500 2000 2500

C01C06RAXBAX9ZF8ZF

100.00

1000.00

0.01100 150 200 250 300 350

C01C06RAXBAX9ZF8ZF

100.00

1000.00

0.01100 150 200 250 300 350

C01C06RAXBAX9ZF8ZF

100.00

1000.00

0.01100 150 200 250 300 350

C01C06RAXBAX9ZF8ZF

100.00

1000.00

0.01100 150 200 250 300 350

C01C06RAXBAX9ZF8ZF

100.00

1000.00

0.01100 150 200 250 300 350

C01C06RAXBAX9ZF8ZF

100.00

1000.00

0.01100 150 200 250 300 350

C01C06RAXBAX9ZF8ZF

0100 150 200 250 300 350

C01C06RAXBAX9ZF8ZF

100.00

1000.00

0.0150 100 150 200 250 300 350 400

OIL ARABIANOIL INDIAN

100.00

1000.00

0.0150 100 150 200 250 300 350 400

OILOIL & ROCK

100.00

1000.00

0.0150 100 150 200 250 300 350 400

OILOIL & WATER

10.000

100.00

0.1050 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 500

10.000

100.00

0.1050 100 150 200 250 300 400 500

10.000

0.01050 100 150 200 250 300 400 500

10.000

100.000

0.01050 100 150 200 250 300 400 500

ARCDSC

10.000

100.000

0.01050 100 150 200 250 300 400 500

ARCDSC

10.000

100.000

0.01050 100 150 200 250 300 400 500

ARCDSC

Temperature as a Function of Time

Temperature Rate as a Function of Temperature

Temperature Rate as a Function of TemperaturePressure as a Function of Temperature

Epoxy Resins – and Comparisonwith DSC Data

Epoxy resins are used universally and manufactured inbulk by many well known name companies: Ciba, Cytec,Hexcel, Shell. The results from 6 commercially availableresins are shown, three have DSC data superimposed. Allshow a curing reaction followed by a decomposition. TheARC results illustrate the thermal differences in onset, heatrelease and rate of heat release. Comparing ARC withDSC illustrates the benefit of ARC testing; the clearest andmost striking conclusion is that DSC shows reaction onsetat significantly higher temperature.

Intermediate Selection

In production processes there is often a choice ofintermediates and there may be various catalysts or otheradditives that can be used. The stability of all choices andtheir effect on the reaction has to be determined. The ARCis a good choice; illustrated by a comparative set of sixdifferent materials. It can be seen that self-heat rate andpressure are good parameters for comparison,temperature-time is less appropriate.

In the variety of sample types that can be tested, the versatility of the ARC is unrivalled. The ARC is uniquely able toassess the Chemical Reactivity and Runaway potential of materials from low to high energies. Sample may be testedin the solid form, liquid form or slurries, pastes and mixtures – from sub gram to above 100 gram samples. Reactionof gas to liquids and solids and testing at high pressures, testing with a flow of gas is possible, with stirring and withdosing, measuring pressure as well as temperature.

Oil (Oxidation)

The characteristics of oil samples are important,particularly when Enhanced Oilfield Recovery techniquesare being used such as in situ combustion. Oils have lowand high temperature oxidation regions. ARC testing istypically carried out at very high initial pressure (e.g.100bar). Testing is carried out with the oil alone or withrock and water. Graphs below indicate differing oils andtheir interactions.

T I M E ( m i n )

1000 500 1000 1500 2000 2500

C01C06RAXBAX9ZF8ZF

100.00

1000.00

0.01100 150 200 250 300 350

C01C06RAXBAX9ZF8ZF

100.00

1000.00

0.01100 150 200 250 300 350

C01C06RAXBAX9ZF8ZF

100.00

1000.00

0.01100 150 200 250 300 350

C01C06RAXBAX9ZF8ZF

100.00

1000.00

0.01100 150 200 250 300 350

C01C06RAXBAX9ZF8ZF

100.00

1000.00

0.01100 150 200 250 300 350

C01C06RAXBAX9ZF8ZF

100.00

1000.00

0.01100 150 200 250 300 350

C01C06RAXBAX9ZF8ZF

0100 150 200 250 300 350

C01C06RAXBAX9ZF8ZF

100.00

1000.00

0.0150 100 150 200 250 300 350 400

OIL ARABIANOIL INDIAN

100.00

1000.00

0.0150 100 150 200 250 300 350 400

OILOIL & ROCK

100.00

1000.00

0.0150 100 150 200 250 300 350 400

OILOIL & WATER

10.000

100.00

0.1050 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 500

10.000

100.00

0.1050 100 150 200 250 300 400 500

10.000

0.01050 100 150 200 250 300 400 500

10.000

100.000

0.01050 100 150 200 250 300 400 500

ARCDSC

10.000

100.000

0.01050 100 150 200 250 300 400 500

ARCDSC

10.000

100.000

0.01050 100 150 200 250 300 400 500

ARCDSC

Temperature Rate as a Function of TemperaturePressure as a Function of Temperature

Main HeadingOptions for the ARC

Dosing

THT offer two options to enable dosing; The ManualDosing Unit (MDU) achieves addition by manual dosing atambient pressure with a glass syringe at the start of the test.This passive unit can be viewed as a low cost experimentaloption. The computer-controlled Automated Dosing Unit(ADU) is fully controlled toenable dosing at any timeduring the test. Dosing canbe made at elevatedpressure. A stainless steelhigh pressure syringe andspecific dosing samplecontainers are used.

Stirring and Agitation

Stirring is important for reaction mixtures and non-homogeneous materials. In some applications it isnecessary to test such samples within a stirred environment.This is typically the realm of areaction calorimeter, ratherthan a adiabatic calorimeter.But for those customers whohave this requirement THToffer the ASU option. Stirringis continuous mixing in onedirection; agitation hasvaried direction stirring.

Vent Sizing

THT offer manual and automated options to allow closedvessel tests, tempering and hydrodynamic tests. Such teststypically require additional options; stirring, low phi and thefast track calorimeter may be needed.

These are options to further extend the versatility ofARC testing.

High Pressure Flow Option

For in-situ combustion applications, a high pressure/lowflow rate gas supply is often required to simulate oilreservoir conditions. To meet this requirement, THT havedeveloped the High Pressure Flow Option, providingaccurate thermal and pressure measurement as well ascontrolled flue gas analysis capability.

Fume Extraction

The ESARC has in-built capability for fume extraction. A fanin the ceiling of the containment vessel operatesautomatically in conjunction with the test conditions andsoftware. However in some application areas there maybe need for significant additional extraction. This may bethe case when specific materials are to be tested withinthe Pharmaceutical Industry.

The Fume Hood Unit (FHU) incorporates a very highspeed extraction fan and additional door cover to give agas extraction rate in excess of Fume Cupboards. This isan option to further enhance safe operations.

Automated Lid Lifting

The calorimeter lid can be raised and loweredautomatically with the Pneumatic Rising Unit (PRU). This hasbeen made available for users for whom lifting of thecalorimeter lid can be difficult.This is an option to furtherenhance ease of use.

Kits have been developed by THT to facilitate specifictesting in the ARC where hardware modifications areappropriate. These include Explosive Test Kit (containinglow volume sample holders, high volume feed throughtube, burst disk assembly), Side Branch Kit (containingalternative pressure feed-through tubes and a Burst DiskAssembly; this prohibits any ‘reflux’ of sample or solventand avoids need for any ‘tube heater’), and Low Phi Kit(containing low phi containers, special feed through tubesand burst disk assembly).

For the first 15 years the ARC saw little development andfew options added. THT however has worked with a varietyof users to develop Options and Kits to extend the use of theARC and make it more flexible and versatile.

Options may be passive or active. Active options are underWorkstation control.

Kits are simpler, they are hardware add-ons that haveparticular use and relevance in specific areas of application.Some options are detailed here.

Low Phi and Fast Tracking

The most simple addition to increase application of theARC was the development of alternative sample containers.THT have designed and produced a range of 65mllightweight test cells. These are manufactured from 316-Stainless Steel and provide users with several testingoptions. These containers are often used with the ‘Burst DiskAssembly’ designed to relieve pressure and discharge to anin-built catch pot in the event of rapid pressurisation.

To extend the maximum rate of adiabatic tracking, THTintroduced the ‘Fast Tracking Calorimeter with an ability tofollow exotherms to 150°C/min. The Fast TrackingCalorimeter looks identical to the standard Dow Patentdesign, but consists of thinner wall construction and fastacting heaters. It is most important in any adiabatic safetycalorimeter to be able to test over a range of phi values.Standard ARC bombs are applicable for the vast majorityof tests; for solids, for high energy samples phi is 1.2 orabove. Lower phi values are useful for vent sizing or lowenergy samples. Phi is 1.05 or above. The ARC has theability to test all sample types, many other adiabaticcalorimeters do not. It also must be realised that the mostimportant data is obtained near the onset where there ispossibility for remedial action.

Cryogenic Operation

With more processes being developed utilizing sub-zerooperating temperatures there has been a need for lowtemperature testing. The CSU Option is a passive unit thatattaches directly on to the ARC.

The CSU option reduces the temperature of thecontainment vessel and calorimeter and sample to -40°Callowing testing from this temperature. This is a uniqueoption to the THT ARC.

Gas Collection and Safe Gas Release

THT have developed several options. These range from asimple manual gas release system (SSM) through to asystem allowing 4 samplesto be automatically takenduring the course of the test(SSU). An intermediatesystem (SSS), where thegas is released andautomatically collected atthe end of the test is offered.For collection a variety ofvessels are available; for safe release the suppliedscrubber tank may be filled with appropriate neutralisingmaterial.

Main HeadingOptions for the ARC

Dosing

THT offer two options to enable dosing; The ManualDosing Unit (MDU) achieves addition by manual dosing atambient pressure with a glass syringe at the start of the test.This passive unit can be viewed as a low cost experimentaloption. The computer-controlled Automated Dosing Unit(ADU) is fully controlled toenable dosing at any timeduring the test. Dosing canbe made at elevatedpressure. A stainless steelhigh pressure syringe andspecific dosing samplecontainers are used.

Stirring and Agitation

Stirring is important for reaction mixtures and non-homogeneous materials. In some applications it isnecessary to test such samples within a stirred environment.This is typically the realm of areaction calorimeter, ratherthan a adiabatic calorimeter.But for those customers whohave this requirement THToffer the ASU option. Stirringis continuous mixing in onedirection; agitation hasvaried direction stirring.

Vent Sizing

THT offer manual and automated options to allow closedvessel tests, tempering and hydrodynamic tests. Such teststypically require additional options; stirring, low phi and thefast track calorimeter may be needed.

These are options to further extend the versatility ofARC testing.

High Pressure Flow Option

For in-situ combustion applications, a high pressure/lowflow rate gas supply is often required to simulate oilreservoir conditions. To meet this requirement, THT havedeveloped the High Pressure Flow Option, providingaccurate thermal and pressure measurement as well ascontrolled flue gas analysis capability.

Fume Extraction

The ESARC has in-built capability for fume extraction. A fanin the ceiling of the containment vessel operatesautomatically in conjunction with the test conditions andsoftware. However in some application areas there maybe need for significant additional extraction. This may bethe case when specific materials are to be tested withinthe Pharmaceutical Industry.

The Fume Hood Unit (FHU) incorporates a very highspeed extraction fan and additional door cover to give agas extraction rate in excess of Fume Cupboards. This isan option to further enhance safe operations.

Automated Lid Lifting

The calorimeter lid can be raised and loweredautomatically with the Pneumatic Rising Unit (PRU). This hasbeen made available for users for whom lifting of thecalorimeter lid can be difficult.This is an option to furtherenhance ease of use.

Kits have been developed by THT to facilitate specifictesting in the ARC where hardware modifications areappropriate. These include Explosive Test Kit (containinglow volume sample holders, high volume feed throughtube, burst disk assembly), Side Branch Kit (containingalternative pressure feed-through tubes and a Burst DiskAssembly; this prohibits any ‘reflux’ of sample or solventand avoids need for any ‘tube heater’), and Low Phi Kit(containing low phi containers, special feed through tubesand burst disk assembly).

For the first 15 years the ARC saw little development andfew options added. THT however has worked with a varietyof users to develop Options and Kits to extend the use of theARC and make it more flexible and versatile.

Options may be passive or active. Active options are underWorkstation control.

Kits are simpler, they are hardware add-ons that haveparticular use and relevance in specific areas of application.Some options are detailed here.

Low Phi and Fast Tracking

The most simple addition to increase application of theARC was the development of alternative sample containers.THT have designed and produced a range of 65mllightweight test cells. These are manufactured from 316-Stainless Steel and provide users with several testingoptions. These containers are often used with the ‘Burst DiskAssembly’ designed to relieve pressure and discharge to anin-built catch pot in the event of rapid pressurisation.

To extend the maximum rate of adiabatic tracking, THTintroduced the ‘Fast Tracking Calorimeter with an ability tofollow exotherms to 150°C/min. The Fast TrackingCalorimeter looks identical to the standard Dow Patentdesign, but consists of thinner wall construction and fastacting heaters. It is most important in any adiabatic safetycalorimeter to be able to test over a range of phi values.Standard ARC bombs are applicable for the vast majorityof tests; for solids, for high energy samples phi is 1.2 orabove. Lower phi values are useful for vent sizing or lowenergy samples. Phi is 1.05 or above. The ARC has theability to test all sample types, many other adiabaticcalorimeters do not. It also must be realised that the mostimportant data is obtained near the onset where there ispossibility for remedial action.

Cryogenic Operation

With more processes being developed utilizing sub-zerooperating temperatures there has been a need for lowtemperature testing. The CSU Option is a passive unit thatattaches directly on to the ARC.

The CSU option reduces the temperature of thecontainment vessel and calorimeter and sample to -40°Callowing testing from this temperature. This is a uniqueoption to the THT ARC.

Gas Collection and Safe Gas Release

THT have developed several options. These range from asimple manual gas release system (SSM) through to asystem allowing 4 samplesto be automatically takenduring the course of the test(SSU). An intermediatesystem (SSS), where thegas is released andautomatically collected atthe end of the test is offered.For collection a variety ofvessels are available; for safe release the suppliedscrubber tank may be filled with appropriate neutralisingmaterial.

Main HeadingARC Testing of Lithium Batteries

Safety Testing of Batteries

The ARC calorimeter canaccommodate smallerbatteries; coin cell, AA,4/5A, 18650, 26650,prismatics and lithiumpolymer pouch batteries. Abig advantage of any batteryis that it may be tested in anopen environment. As thebattery has its own case, this reduces phi to one. The batterycan be positioned within the calorimeter in several ways.Data from an 18650 battery is illustrated.

With batteries, the simplest test is ‘effect of heat upon thebattery’, but it is also possible to connect cables to the batteryfor 2 or 4 wire measurement, e.g. of voltage during test.Batteries can be tested at any State of Charge or at any ageto determine variation in stability. Aside from onset the ARC testwill determine self heating at all temperatures – and thus givesmuch more information than ‘Hot Box’ and other empiricaltests. The final potential of the battery to remain intact ordisintegrate is important. Ejection of battery components willbe associated with fire as the lithium reacts with air.

Internal pressure can be measured during temperatureincrease and exothermic reaction. The battery can be heldin a pressure tight chamber inside the calorimeter. Thepressure rise when the battery vents can be recorded andthe gas released can be later analysed. Batteries developsignificant pressure and therefore care must be taken incarrying out pressure contained tests.

Testing of Batteries under Abuse Conditions

The ARC is ideal for testing heat effects associated withbattery abuse. Such tests are rapid and commencetypically near ambient temperature. Simply by connectingthe battery to cables, external shorting tests can be carriedout. The battery temperature is likely to rise 100°C – the

battery then may or may not further react and disintegrate.In addition with the battery connected to a power supplythe effect of overvoltage charging or discharging can bedetermined. Other tests include nail penetration, crush,even tests to simulate water immersion have beenattempted. These tests allow a quantitative determination ofheat release from internal short. Such tests can beimplemented with the THT BSU Option.

Testing of Batteries under Use Conditions

Testing of batteries under use conditions requires connectionto a battery cycler. The battery can be connected to leadsto allow 2 or 4 wire measurement. To facilitate this THToffer a range of single channel cyclers that integrate withthe ARC software to allow control by the ARC and asynchronised single data set to be obtained.

This allows voltage and current measure-ments duringcharging, discharging, cycling and shorting and otherabuse tests to be carried out in-situ within the ARC.

The tests may becarried out at variousd i scharge/chargerates to measure heatrelease under theseconditions. Continualcycling (or testing withbatteries that havebeen subject to multiplecycles externally) willallow information onlifecycle and efficiencyto be determined.

THT’s Battery Options(BSU and KSU) allowcomputer controlleduse and abuse tests.

Safety of Lithium Batteries is of MajorGlobal Concern

In the past 10 years rechargeable lithium batteries havebeen introduced to the market, initially in specialist uses buttoday commonly applied. Lithium batteries have excellentuse characteristics, including the highest charge density.However the chemistry (initially involving lithium ions beingintercalated on carbon based anodes, delithiated spinelcathodes and flammable electrolytes), led to instability andpotential for flammable disintegration. There have beenmany reports of notebooks and phones catching fire.Batteries may be affected by heat and also will produceheat upon discharge. Huge effort has been put in todevelopment of safer chemistries as well as improvedperformance. In smaller batteries relative heat loss capacityis good – but as the battery gets larger (or is used as apack) the battery becomes more adiabatic. Today there isthe aim to ‘scale up’, to incorporate lithium batteries intopower tools, planes, cars and buses. In addition newerapplications are more demanding, power tools andvehicles require fast discharge – producing more heatoutput. There is the need for safe batteries – and the ARCis the calorimeter of choice for this application.

There are 5 Categories of Applicationof ARC to Lithium Batteries

Battery components testing anddevelopment of new battery chemistries

Complete batteries and packsfor safety studies

Battery heat output under useand abuse conditions

Battery heat output under normalconditions for heat output, efficiencyand lifecycle studies

Battery performance and the temperaturedistribution over the surface of the battery

Battery Components

Many groups, mainly in academic environments, are usingthe ARC to study battery materials either separately or incombination. The aim is to develop new battery chemistriesand configurations.

An experienced group is inDalhousie University, NovaScotia; headed by ProfessorJeff Dahn. The data shownbelow is from his laboratoryand reproduced with hispermission.

Battery material testing hasbeen carried out on anodeand cathode materials, electrolytes and their mixtures.Testing has been performed on battery component materialafter battery charging, it is then removed giving complexproducts.

Family of Battery Components

ARC data is complex. Typically several reactions occur thatoverlap.

The application of the ARC in the field of lithium batteriesis wide. Only an overview is given here. Contact THT fora separate detailed Brochure: ARC-Battery Applications.

10.000

100.000

0.01200160 240

0.0180 100 120 140 160 180 200

Thermal Stability Testingof a Charged 18650 Battery

SEI Reaction

Anode Reaction

Separator Melting

Cathode Reaction

Battery Disintegration

120 160 200 240 280 320

Stopped at 220 °C(a), LICoO2 (1)

(b), LICoO2 (2)

(c), LICoO2 (3)

T I M E ( m i n )

200 6040 10080 140120 180160 220 240200

0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 300020

T I M E ( m i n )

Main HeadingARC Testing of Lithium Batteries

Safety Testing of Batteries

The ARC calorimeter canaccommodate smallerbatteries; coin cell, AA,4/5A, 18650, 26650,prismatics and lithiumpolymer pouch batteries. Abig advantage of any batteryis that it may be tested in anopen environment. As thebattery has its own case, this reduces phi to one. The batterycan be positioned within the calorimeter in several ways.Data from an 18650 battery is illustrated.

With batteries, the simplest test is ‘effect of heat upon thebattery’, but it is also possible to connect cables to the batteryfor 2 or 4 wire measurement, e.g. of voltage during test.Batteries can be tested at any State of Charge or at any ageto determine variation in stability. Aside from onset the ARC testwill determine self heating at all temperatures – and thus givesmuch more information than ‘Hot Box’ and other empiricaltests. The final potential of the battery to remain intact ordisintegrate is important. Ejection of battery components willbe associated with fire as the lithium reacts with air.

Internal pressure can be measured during temperatureincrease and exothermic reaction. The battery can be heldin a pressure tight chamber inside the calorimeter. Thepressure rise when the battery vents can be recorded andthe gas released can be later analysed. Batteries developsignificant pressure and therefore care must be taken incarrying out pressure contained tests.

Testing of Batteries under Abuse Conditions

The ARC is ideal for testing heat effects associated withbattery abuse. Such tests are rapid and commencetypically near ambient temperature. Simply by connectingthe battery to cables, external shorting tests can be carriedout. The battery temperature is likely to rise 100°C – the

battery then may or may not further react and disintegrate.In addition with the battery connected to a power supplythe effect of overvoltage charging or discharging can bedetermined. Other tests include nail penetration, crush,even tests to simulate water immersion have beenattempted. These tests allow a quantitative determination ofheat release from internal short. Such tests can beimplemented with the THT BSU Option.

Testing of Batteries under Use Conditions

Testing of batteries under use conditions requires connectionto a battery cycler. The battery can be connected to leadsto allow 2 or 4 wire measurement. To facilitate this THToffer a range of single channel cyclers that integrate withthe ARC software to allow control by the ARC and asynchronised single data set to be obtained.

This allows voltage and current measure-ments duringcharging, discharging, cycling and shorting and otherabuse tests to be carried out in-situ within the ARC.

The tests may becarried out at variousd i scharge/chargerates to measure heatrelease under theseconditions. Continualcycling (or testing withbatteries that havebeen subject to multiplecycles externally) willallow information onlifecycle and efficiencyto be determined.

THT’s Battery Options(BSU and KSU) allowcomputer controlleduse and abuse tests.

Safety of Lithium Batteries is of MajorGlobal Concern

In the past 10 years rechargeable lithium batteries havebeen introduced to the market, initially in specialist uses buttoday commonly applied. Lithium batteries have excellentuse characteristics, including the highest charge density.However the chemistry (initially involving lithium ions beingintercalated on carbon based anodes, delithiated spinelcathodes and flammable electrolytes), led to instability andpotential for flammable disintegration. There have beenmany reports of notebooks and phones catching fire.Batteries may be affected by heat and also will produceheat upon discharge. Huge effort has been put in todevelopment of safer chemistries as well as improvedperformance. In smaller batteries relative heat loss capacityis good – but as the battery gets larger (or is used as apack) the battery becomes more adiabatic. Today there isthe aim to ‘scale up’, to incorporate lithium batteries intopower tools, planes, cars and buses. In addition newerapplications are more demanding, power tools andvehicles require fast discharge – producing more heatoutput. There is the need for safe batteries – and the ARCis the calorimeter of choice for this application.

There are 5 Categories of Applicationof ARC to Lithium Batteries

Battery components testing anddevelopment of new battery chemistries

Complete batteries and packsfor safety studies

Battery heat output under useand abuse conditions

Battery heat output under normalconditions for heat output, efficiencyand lifecycle studies

Battery performance and the temperaturedistribution over the surface of the battery

Battery Components

Many groups, mainly in academic environments, are usingthe ARC to study battery materials either separately or incombination. The aim is to develop new battery chemistriesand configurations.

An experienced group is inDalhousie University, NovaScotia; headed by ProfessorJeff Dahn. The data shownbelow is from his laboratoryand reproduced with hispermission.

Battery material testing hasbeen carried out on anodeand cathode materials, electrolytes and their mixtures.Testing has been performed on battery component materialafter battery charging, it is then removed giving complexproducts.

Family of Battery Components

ARC data is complex. Typically several reactions occur thatoverlap.

The application of the ARC in the field of lithium batteriesis wide. Only an overview is given here. Contact THT fora separate detailed Brochure: ARC-Battery Applications.

10.000

100.000

0.01200160 240

0.0180 100 120 140 160 180 200

Thermal Stability Testingof a Charged 18650 Battery

SEI Reaction

Anode Reaction

Separator Melting

Cathode Reaction

Battery Disintegration

120 160 200 240 280 320

Stopped at 220 °C(a), LICoO2 (1)

(b), LICoO2 (2)

(c), LICoO2 (3)

T I M E ( m i n )

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0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 300020

T I M E ( m i n )

Rapid Discharge

Power packs for Electric Vehicles and power tools are

Large or very large in size

Designed to give fast, high power discharge

Battery chemistry is tailored to minimise heat release duringmulti-kW, short time discharge.

Information is needed not specifically for safety, but on the‘spatial heat release’ to allow appropriate ‘ThermalManagement’ and to determine ‘Battery Performance’.

To address these needs, THT have developed a thirdCalorimeter, the Battery Performance Calorimeter, or BPC.This is larger than the EV Calorimeter, but is accommodatedwithin the EV Blast Box and uses the same electronics andsoftware of EV and ES systems.

The BPC can test very large batteries and packs in the sameway as the EV or standard calorimeter.

MultiPoint™ Option

The MultiPoint option may be used with any THT ARCsystem, but is appropriate when rapid discharge tests areto be carried out. This option allows multiple thermocouplesto be positioned on and around the battery. Thetemperature at all points is recorded, the ARC can becontrolled from any of these. Tests are started at a chosenisothermal temperature and heat release causestemperature rise. Surface temperatures are recorded duringthe charge/discharge test.

CryoCool™

Such battery performance tests are typicallly commenced atambient environmental temperature. These may be below 0°C.To allow this, the MultiPoint option includes CryoCool. This is asimple method to reduce the calorimeter temperature with liquidnitrogen and cold nitrogen gas.

The BPS with MultiPoint may be used in conjunction withultra-rapid discharge single channel cycler supplied eitherby THT or the user. The MultiPoint can be used externallyfrom any THT calorimeter, i.e. directly in a power plantwithin a vehicle.

The graphical illustrations show a simple multipoint test.

Main HeadingThe EVARC, Double & Triple Systems Battery Performance,MultiPoint™ & CryoCool™

The EVARC is unique to THT and has a calorimeter 25cmin diameter and 50cm deep. This has been designed toaccommodate larger batteries and battery packs as maybe used in Electric Vehicles, Satellites and other similarapplications. The EVARC can do all that the standardARC can do – but with bigger batteries. The EVARC canaccommodate the same THT Battery Options.

The EV calorimeter is constructed from aluminium and likethe standard calorimeter contains 8 heaters built into themetal. This design enables the calorimeter to function withthe same electronics (and software) as the standardESARC. The EVARC will heat more slowly and typically intests a longer wait time is required – to allow thermalstability. Pressure measurement is the same.

It should be realised that with large batteries there isincreased risk. Typically batteries are not contained insealed containers and therefore should a batterydisintegrate with large gas release there is no likelihoodof explosion. However there will be significant release offlammable material and fire. Typically tests ought not becarried out to completion with a large and energy ladenbattery or battery pack.

It is not normally the aim not to take such large batteriesto full runaway. It must also be realised that tests will takelonger since longer times must be allowed for thermalequilibration. In addition it must be realised that largebatteries will equilibrate thermally more slowly and heatgradients will occur within suchlarge samples as the self-heatingrate increases.

There are limitations– but the EVARCoffers potential tocarry out all batterysafety and cyclingtests with largebatteries – generatingdata that cannot beobtained with anyother calorimeter.

The EVARC has safety features built in that are the sameas those in the ESARC, including proximity switch andautomated gas extraction. In addition the softwarefeatures will restrict the functioning to give shut down andquench cooling to slow and stop self-heating, preventingbattery disintegration.

Batteries come in all shapes and sizes and often it isnecessary to test both small and large batteries. Tofacilitate this, the EVARC was designed to utilise allelectronics and software of the ESARC. Because of this, itis possible, for modest cost to have a 'Double System'with both EV and standard calorimeters. The calorimetersare exchanged in a few moments and set up is veryrapid – offering the functionality of both calorimeters andthe ability to test from Coin Cells to EV Batteries.

115 120 125 130

CurrentVoltage

T I M E ( m i n )

175170 180 190185 195 205200 210

Top of Battery5mm from Top25mm from Top45mm from TopBase of Battery

T I M E ( m i n )

175170 180 190185 195 205200 210

T I M E ( m i n )

Cycler Data

Spatial Temperature of Battery

Control Temperature as a Function of Time