Navigating the Blaze: The Imperative of UL-Certified Batteries in the World of Micromobility
Bruno Long
In the bustling streets of New York City, a silent menace looms within the sleek frames of electric bikes. The quest for affordable alternatives has inadvertently given rise to a perilous trend—cheap, uncertified electric bike batteries that pose a significant threat, leading to fires that endanger lives and property. In response, New York City has taken a bold step by banning electric batteries that lack UL certification, aiming to curb the rising tide of unsafe micromobility incidents.
The term "UL-certified" stands as a beacon of safety in the electric battery realm. UL, or Underwriters Laboratories, is a global safety certification company that rigorously tests products to ensure they meet stringent safety standards.
In the context of electric bike batteries, a UL certification signifies that the battery has undergone thorough testing for safety, performance, and environmental impact. This certification acts as a crucial differentiator between batteries that meet high-quality standards and those that cut corners at the expense of safety.
The danger lies in the proliferation of substandard electric bike batteries flooding the market. These batteries, often originating from overseas manufacturers, entice budget-conscious consumers seeking an economical foray into micromobility. However, the allure of affordability often comes at a severe cost—safety.
The science behind the perilous nature of lithium-ion batteries reveals a precarious reality. Within these batteries, multiple cells are interconnected, facilitating the flow of lithium ions between electrodes during use.
The critical juncture occurs when a cell enters "thermal runaway," an alarming chain reaction that rapidly generates heat, leading to the imminent threat of fire and, in extreme cases, explosion. Thermal runaway can be triggered by overcharging, manufacturing defects, or the heat emanating from a neighbouring cell already in thermal runaway.
Over the past three to five years, the United States has witnessed a surge in micromobility fires, primarily attributed to the use of substandard batteries. This alarming trend has prompted regulatory bodies across the country to reevaluate safety practices, particularly concerning batteries imported from overseas. While New York City has taken a commendable stride with its UL certification mandate, the regulatory landscape remains inconsistent nationwide.
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To guard against the specter of battery failure, consumers are urged to adhere to stringent safety practices:
Choose Certified Batteries: Always opt for a certified battery pack from a reputable supplier.
Use Designated Chargers: Employ the manufacturer's designated charger and application to mitigate risks.
Monitor Performance: Dispose of a battery pack showing significantly reduced range or performance.
Beware of Excessive Heat: If a battery pack becomes excessively hot during use or charging, immediate disposal is imperative.
Avoid Internet Bargains: Steer clear of cheap battery packs purchased online, as these are often the most problematic.
No Unattended Charging: Never leave battery packs unattended during the charging process.
Avoid Repairs: Refrain from attempting to repair electric bike batteries, as improper repairs can lead to hazardous consequences.
Keep Away from Water: Batteries and water are a dangerous mix; dispose of any battery pack that comes into contact with water.
Ensuring the safety of micromobility requires a collective commitment to adopting UL-certified batteries, purchasing from reputable dealers, and understanding the risks associated with charging practices. By embracing these principles and fostering a culture of responsibility, riders can enjoy electric bikes' benefits without compromising safety.
