Transporting rechargeable batteries and batteries safely

Lithium-ion batteries have become an integral part of modern everyday life and are used in a wide range of applications in both the private and commercial sectors. Their high energy density, long service life and durability as well as low self-discharge make them the preferred energy storage medium for electronic devices such as smartphones, power tools, household appliances, leisure and sports equipment, medical devices as well as electric vehicles and technologies for industrial applications. The commercial transport of lithium-ion batteries is subject to strict regulations to ensure safety and minimize risks such as fires or explosions. For example, the rules of the "European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road" (ADR) must be observed for road transportation. According to these regulations, lithium-ion batteries must be transported in UN-certified packaging.

At the Battery Show 2024 from June 18 to 20, 2024 in Stuttgart, SSI Schaefer Plastics presented the new generation of SECON hazardous goods containers, which are suitable for the transport of dangerous goods in packaging groups II and III, e.g. lithium-ion batteries, airbags or seatbelt pretensioners. The UN-certified, fire-retardant reusable containers comply with the dangerous goods regulations for transportation by road, rail and inland waterway. The reusable containers developed in the SSI Schaefer Plastics construction packaging division Seacurity Containers are available in a KLT version for industrial use and as a conical reusable container (KMB) in various sizes and features. These include various compartments and inserts, fire-retardant pockets or cushions, thermoformed inserts as well as lids, closures and safety straps. The inserts prevent the batteries from colliding and slipping. The fire-retardant cushions are also able to absorb liquids if batteries are damaged.

All containers are made of polypropylene, are available in a wide range of colors or ESD versions and are 100 % recyclable. For easy handling, the KMB has ergonomic under-frame handles and a split hinged lid with a central safety strap to keep the lid securely closed in any position. Thanks to the sturdy side walls and smooth base, the KMB can be stacked safely, cleaned easily and is also suitable for automatic handling. When empty, the containers can be stacked inside each other to reduce volume and save up to 70 % of space.

"The incorrect handling, storage and transportation of yellow, i.e. used or defective batteries and rechargeable batteries in particular can be a fire hazard and therefore potentially life-threatening. With this in mind, SSI Schaefer Plastics is presenting the new SECON hazardous goods container at the Battery Show. The customizable, reusable packaging solution ensures maximum product protection along the entire process chain," explains Sebastian Schlensok, Business Development Manager Customized Packaging at SSI SCHAEFER Plastics. This is the second time that the manufacturer, which is part of the SSI Schaefer Group, has taken part in the Battery Show. This year's trade fair appearance is under the motto "Be safe" and aims to promote greater awareness of the issue of safety when transporting batteries and accumulators among trade fair visitors. With the SECON product family, SSI SCHAEFER Plastics offers an easy-to-handle, affordable and quickly available solution.