Battery Thermal Runaway Simulator
Interactive visualization of thermal propagation in a battery pack during thermal runaway
About this Simulator
This simulator visualizes thermal runaway propagation in a lithium-ion battery pack. When one cell enters thermal runaway (exceeds ~150°C), it generates extreme heat that can spread to adjacent cells, potentially causing a cascade failure. Watch how cooling rate and thermal barriers affect propagation speed.
Physics & Formulas
Heat Conduction (Fourier's Law):
$$\dot{Q} = k \cdot A \cdot \frac{\Delta T}{d}$$
Thermal Runaway Threshold:
$$T_{runaway} \approx 150°C - 200°C$$
Heat Generation Rate (during runaway):
$$\dot{Q}_{gen} = Q_{total} \cdot e^{-t/\tau}$$
How to Use
- Set Initial Cell Temperature - the starting temperature of all cells
- Adjust Ambient Temperature - affects cooling to environment
- Set Cooling Rate - simulates active cooling system effectiveness
- Adjust Cell Conductivity - how easily heat transfers between cells
- Toggle Show Temperatures to see cell temperature values
- Enable Show Heat Flow to visualize heat transfer directions
- Click 'Trigger Runaway' to start thermal runaway in a random cell
- Observe how heat propagates and potentially triggers adjacent cells
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes thermal runaway?
Thermal runaway occurs when a cell's internal temperature rises uncontrollably due to internal short circuits, overcharging, physical damage, or external heat. At ~130-150°C, the separator melts causing internal shorts, leading to rapid heat generation that can exceed 800°C.
How do battery packs prevent propagation?
Modern battery packs use thermal barriers between cells, active liquid cooling, fire-resistant materials, and cell venting systems. The goal is to isolate a failing cell and dissipate heat faster than it can spread to neighbors.
What do the colors represent?
Blue/Cyan: Normal operating temperature (20-40°C). Green: Elevated temperature (40-80°C). Yellow/Orange: Warning zone (80-130°C). Red: Critical/runaway (130-200°C). Dark red/black: Failed cell (post-runaway).
