Experimental study on heat dissipation for lithium-ion battery based on micro heat pipe array (MHPA)

Safe containment and management of appreciable heat effects associated with lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries in high-power applications remain a challenge before widespread commercialization can occur. In this study, experiments utilizing Li-ion battery packs were conducted under sealed conditions with constant current of 18 A. Temperatures were measured with and without micro heat pipe arrays (MHPAs) during the charge–discharge cycle. The temperature results of the Li-ion battery packs validated the effectiveness of the cooling system based on MHPAs in lowering the temperature increase rate of battery packs at 1C rate and minimizing the temperature difference inside battery packs and cells during operation. Based on the experimental data, the heat generation and dissipation of Li-ion battery pack are analyzed. The results of experiments and calculation revealed enhanced stability and safety of battery during the continuous charge–discharge cycle. This novel MHPA based on a cooling system possessed the characteristics of high energy efficiency, an easy-to-manufacture process and compactness.