One critical component that plays a pivotal role in the durability and safety of batteries is the battery cover. In recent years, aluminum has emerged as a material of choice for these covers due to its unique combination of properties.
Aluminum as sheet and extruded profiles is the preferred material for BEV body structure, closures and battery enclosures. Aluminum battery enclosures or other platform parts typically gives a weight saving of 40% compared to an equivalent steel design. Aluminum is infinitely recyclable with zero loss of properties.
The choice of materials used for a battery case has to cover a wide range of performance issues. Replacing steel or bonded aluminium with thermoplastics or glass fibre composites is offering lighter cases and more options for increasing the energy density by using larger components that can be more easily assembled.
Indoor battery cabinet should have at least NEMA 1 rating. On the other hand, outdoor enclosures for batteries should have a NEMA 3R rating. It is important to note that the NEMA and IP rating varies depending on where you will install the enclosure. Indoor Battery Box Enclosure 2. Mounting Mechanism for Battery Cabinet
Handles – provides an easy way to handle the battery cabinet. Battery holding brackets – they ensure the battery is always in a fixed position (no movement). Cooling plates – some have cooling plates that help to control the enclosure temperature. Insulation system – insulation is also a safety measure a battery cabinet should have.
Composites offer a number of advantages over traditional materials, and they are likely to play an important role in the future of EV design. The design of aluminum battery covers involves striking a delicate balance between structural integrity, weight, and manufacturability.