Discrete and Process Automation

High-speed inline leak testing of battery cells

07 June 2023

A new system from INFICON is engineered for leak testing ready-filled lithium-ion and sodium-ion battery cells by direct detection of electrolyte solvent leaking into a vacuum chamber.

The ELT3000 PLUS identifies leaks with all cell formats, from cells with rigid cases, including prismatic, round or button cells, or soft pouch cells. Testing systems can be designed to operate at a battery cell manufacturer’sSource: INFICONSource: INFICON line speed to keep pace with cell production.

In addition to manual operating mode, the system is equipped with an automatic in-line leak detection mode, which is optimized for short cycle times and high throughput in series production. Powerful vacuum pumps combine with multiple chambers served by just one ELT3000 PLUS and a batch testing approach add to a time-savings and high-speed, in-line testing process.

The system is capable of testing leaks that are a few micrometers in diameter with a leak test rate of 5x107 mbar·l/s (helium equivalent leak rate). An automatic calibration feature makes it possible in only 30 seconds to ensure the system is producing highly accurate, reliable and repeatable measurements of electrolyte leakage. Test data can be exported in real time and migrated to each plant’s quality system, which ensures the accuracy of important quality assurance programs and metrics.

To contact the author of this article, email shimmelstein@globalspec.com


Powered by CR4, the Engineering Community

Discussion – 0 comments

By posting a comment you confirm that you have read and accept our Posting Rules and Terms of Use.
Engineering Newsletter Signup
Get the GlobalSpec
Stay up to date on:
Features the top stories, latest news, charts, insights and more on the end-to-end electronics value chain.
Advertisement
Weekly Newsletter
Get news, research, and analysis
on the Electronics industry in your
inbox every week - for FREE
Sign up for our FREE eNewsletter
Advertisement