Battery Management Systems

A battery management system (BMS) is a set of electronics designed to monitor, control, and optimize a battery’s performance as well as detect and respond to unsafe conditions.

A BMS can provide first responders with useful information relating to the current state and function of battery banks. It can also provide automated intervention. As a battery heats up, the BMS can electrically isolate the unit and initiate exhaust venting and airflow to create a negative thermal balance. This will minimize heat transfer and inhibit escalation and propagation.

However, BMS are not foolproof. Incidents may occur due to system programming errors, various abuse factors, and the complexity of BESS. Although BMS can provide operational intelligence and may initiate protective action, these systems should be considered as a component of your situational awareness. It is essential that you verify BMS data and use direct observation to form a complete operational picture.