Total Energies Lubrifiants Revolutionizes EV Battery Cooling Technology
Total Energies Lubrifiants, the lubricants arm of French energy giant Total, has made a groundbreaking advancement in electric vehicle (EV) battery technology. They have successfully fitted a Renault Megane E-Tech with an immersion-cooled battery that utilizes a cutting-edge fluid called Cell Shield. This innovative technology has not only halved the EV’s charging times but also extended its range by an impressive 6%.
Understanding Immersion Cooling
Immersion cooling involves reducing the temperature of a component by submerging it in a specialized fluid. While this concept may seem straightforward, it becomes more complex when applied to electrical components. Introducing water-based fluid to circuitry can lead to a short circuit and damage. This is why EV batteries are designed to be waterproof.
In traditional combustion engines, heat is transferred through the walls of cylinders and chambers to water flowing through channels. The water then passes through a radiator to dissipate heat. This process, known as immersion cooling, directly transfers heat from the engine to the cooling system.
Similarly, in electronics, heat is either dissipated into the air or transferred to a heat sink, which is then cooled by air or liquid. Immersing hot components in a cooling fluid proves to be more effective in dissipating heat efficiently.
The Role of Dielectric Fluids
Dielectric fluids, which do not conduct electricity, are crucial in immersion cooling technology. Used in power distribution equipment like transformers, these fluids act as electrical insulators. By partially or fully submerging EV battery cells in a dielectric fluid, heat can be directly conducted away from the cells, enhancing cooling efficiency.
Developing the right fluid for cooling EV battery cells is a complex process. Weight considerations also play a significant role in the design, as immersion cooling eliminates the need for additional components used in liquid-cooled batteries.
Redefining Battery Technology
Total’s immersion-cooled Megane battery is the result of extensive research and collaboration with engineering firm Ricardo. In late 2020, Ricardo developed a prototype for a Volvo XC60 plug-in hybrid, showcasing the potential of immersion-cooled batteries in existing vehicle architectures. Apart from improved cooling and faster charging times, these batteries are also cost-effective and lighter.
Total Energies Lubrifiants’ groundbreaking innovation in EV battery cooling technology marks a significant milestone in the automotive industry, paving the way for more efficient and sustainable electric vehicles.
