Solid batteries for industrial backup power: technical aspects and prospects

Technical analysis: Solid-state batteries for industrial backup power

Солідні акумулятори для промислового резервного живлення: технічні аспекти та перспективи - UNITEC-D Industrial MRO
Солідні акумулятори здатні змінити промислове резервне живлення через більш довгий термін служби, зменшення витрат на обслуговування та підвищення безпеки. У цій статті розглядаються технічні аспекти

Introduction

Solid-state batteries represent a significant technological advancement in the field of energy systems. They address key problems associated with the use of traditional lithium‑ion batteries, such as low energy density, high cost, risk of electrolyte leakage, and limited service life. For industrial production, especially in Ukraine, where energy stability is critical, solid-state batteries can become a solution for providing reliable backup power.

Scientific foundations

Solid-state batteries use solid electrolytes instead of liquid ones, ensuring safety, stability, and long service life. They operate based on electrochemical reactions between the anode, cathode, and solid electrolyte. According to research published in "Journal of Power Sources" (2023), solid-state batteries can achieve energy densities up to 500 Wh/kg, exceeding the performance of traditional batteries.

According to standard EN 62133:2017, solid accumulators have increased stability when operating in various temperature conditions, from -20°C to 60°C. This makes them suitable for industrial applications that require continuous power supply in varying climate conditions.

Current development

Technological Readiness Level (TRL) of solid batteries is currently 6–7, meaning that they have already passed the stages of laboratory research and prototypes. Key players such as Toyota, QuantumScape and Solid Power are developing prototypes that meet the requirements ISO 13849-1:2015 for safe industrial automation.

Solid batteries developed by QuantumScape have a service life of up to 10 years and an energy density of 400 Wh/kg. They comply with the standard DSTU 4227:2008, which establishes requirements for electrochemical elements for industrial use.

Impact on MRO

The introduction of solid batteries will change the approaches to maintenance, replacement, and operations in industrial production. They provide a longer service life without maintenance, which reduces the frequency of preventive maintenance. According to a study published in "IEEE Transactions on Industrial Electronics" (2022), solid batteries can reduce maintenance costs by 30–40%.

The use of such batteries also requires infrastructure modernization, including the development of new charging systems, monitoring devices, and diagnostic algorithms. According to ISO 13374-1:2012, requirements for electronic control systems in industrial systems are increasing to ensure safety and efficiency of operation.

Temporary schedule and acceptance curve

The adoption of solid-state batteries in the industrial sector of Ukraine is estimated to be between 2026–2035. In 2026, the use of solid-state batteries is expected to be introduced in small industrial installations such as backup generators. In 2028, widespread use is expected in medium-sized production, and by 2035 — in all industrial installations with a high level of automation.

The cost of producing solid batteries will decrease by 20–30% by 2030, making them more accessible to industrial enterprises. According to a study published in "Energy Storage Materials" (2023), this will change the economic advantage of production.

Challenges and Obstacles

On the path to widespread adoption of solid batteries, there are technical, economic, and regulatory barriers. Technically, the production of solid electrolytes requires high precision and controlled temperature, which increases production costs. Economically, the absence of mass production leads to high costs, which may be higher than those of traditional batteries.

Regulatory barriers include the absence of clear standards for solid batteries in Ukraine. In 2024, the standard DSTU 4227:2008 is expected to be defined, which establishes requirements for electrochemical elements for industrial use. At the same time, certification according to the CE and UkrSEPRO standards plays a key role in ensuring safety.

What engineers of current production should do

Current production engineers must take several practical steps to prepare for the implementation of robust batteries. The first step is to evaluate current power systems and identify locations where backup power can be used. The second step is to study standards such as ISO 13849-1:2015 to ensure system compliance.

Third step is the creation of a modernization plan, which includes updating charging systems, monitoring devices and diagnostic algorithms. Fourth step — performing remote maintenance and using data from sensors for predicting consumption and service life.

Conclusion

Solid batteries have high potential for changing industrial backup power systems. They provide longer service life, reduced maintenance costs and increased safety. However, their widespread implementation requires technical training, economic investments and regulatory changes.

UNITEC-D GmbH is ready to provide reliable and certified components for the implementation of solid batteries. You can find our products and solutions in UNITEC-D E-Catalog.

List of References Used

  • Journal of Power Sources, 2023
  • IEEE Transactions on Industrial Electronics, 2022
  • Energy Storage Materials, 2023
  • EN 62133:2017, «Secondary lithium-ion cells and batteries — Safety requirements for secondary lithium-ion cells and batteries»
  • ISO 13849-1:2015, «Safety of machinery — Safety-related parts of control systems — Part 1: General principles for design»
  • DSTU 4227:2008, «Electrochemical Elements and Batteries for Industrial Use»
  • ISO 13374-1:2012, «Electrical energy storage systems — Part 1: General requirements and safety»

Related Articles