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Introduction

GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) trackers are essential in hazardous environments, enabling accurate, real-time location tracking and monitoring of assets, vehicles, and personnel. In sectors like mining, oil and gas, and chemical manufacturing, where traditional power sources may falter due to extreme conditions, lithium battery packs have emerged as a reliable and efficient solution. In this technical blog, we’ll examine the benefits, safety considerations, and applications of lithium battery packs in GNSS trackers, specifically designed for hazardous environments.

1. Understanding GNSS Trackers in Hazardous Environments

GNSS trackers are commonly used in hazardous environments to track the location and status of assets and personnel in real time. Industries such as oil and gas, chemical processing, and mining depend on GNSS technology to ensure efficient operations and safety in environments where exposure to flammable gases, dust, and extreme temperatures can pose significant risks.

2. Benefits of Lithium Battery Packs for GNSS Tracking

Lithium battery packs offer distinct advantages over other battery types, making them ideal for GNSS trackers in challenging environments. Their high energy density, lightweight design, and long service life contribute to uninterrupted device functionality, even under demanding conditions. Lithium batteries also support faster charging and provide stable power output, essential for devices requiring consistent performance.

3. Common Applications of GNSS Trackers with Lithium Battery Packs

GNSS trackers with lithium battery packs are increasingly used in a variety of high-risk applications, including:

• Oil and Gas Exploration: Monitoring and locating personnel and assets on offshore rigs, pipelines, and in remote areas.

• Mining Operations: Tracking equipment and personnel in underground and surface mining sites.

• Chemical Manufacturing Plants: Ensuring accurate location tracking in facilities handling hazardous materials and gases.

• Transportation of Dangerous Goods: Monitoring vehicles transporting hazardous materials to prevent accidents and ensure regulatory compliance.

4. Advantages of Lithium Battery Packs in Extreme Environments

Energy Density and Weight Efficiency

Lithium battery packs have a high energy density, meaning they can store more energy per unit weight compared to alternatives. This feature makes GNSS trackers lighter and more portable without compromising performance or longevity, ideal for prolonged use in isolated locations.

Temperature Tolerance

Lithium batteries are more resilient in extreme temperatures than other battery types. They can typically function within a wide temperature range (-40°C to 60°C), crucial in environments like offshore rigs and mines where temperatures fluctuate significantly.

Longevity in Continuous Use

Lithium batteries offer extended charge cycles, ensuring a longer service life. For GNSS trackers used in hazardous environments, this longevity is essential to minimize downtime and maintenance, thus enhancing overall operational efficiency.

5. Essential Safety Considerations

Hazardous Area Certifications

Using lithium batteries in hazardous environments requires compliance with industry-specific safety standards and certifications, such as ATEX (Atmosphères Explosibles) and IECEx (International Electrotechnical Commission Explosive Environments). These certifications ensure that lithium battery packs used in GNSS trackers meet rigorous safety criteria for potentially explosive atmospheres.

Handling and Storage Guidelines

To prevent hazards such as short circuits and overheating, proper handling and storage of lithium battery packs are essential. In hazardous environments, batteries should be stored in cool, dry areas away from flammable materials, and insulated to prevent contact with metal objects that could trigger short circuits.

Battery Casing and Insulation

Protective casings with heat-resistant and impact-resistant properties are crucial in hazardous environments. Casing materials should meet industry standards for robustness, and specialized insulation layers should protect against potential sparking or damage due to environmental conditions.

6. Best Practices for Using Lithium Battery Packs in Hazardous Environments

• Regular Inspection: Frequent inspection for swelling, leakage, or corrosion is vital. Batteries showing signs of wear should be replaced immediately.

• Proper Charging Practices: Overcharging can lead to overheating. Use chargers specifically designed for lithium battery packs and avoid charging beyond recommended voltage levels.

• Routine Replacement: Replace battery packs regularly to prevent performance degradation, especially in high-use scenarios.

7. Lithium Battery Pack Types for GNSS Trackers

Cylindrical Cells

Cylindrical lithium cells are robust and offer high energy density, making them suitable for GNSS trackers requiring extended battery life. Their shape enhances durability and heat dissipation, especially important in hazardous areas.

Prismatic Cells

Prismatic cells are designed in a rectangular shape, providing space efficiency within the device. These cells are commonly used in compact GNSS trackers where space constraints exist.

Pouch Cells

Pouch cells are lightweight and flexible, allowing for customized design adaptations. They are highly efficient but may require additional casing for mechanical protection in hazardous environments.

8. Challenges in Hazardous Environments and Mitigation Strategies

• High-Temperature Exposure: Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can degrade battery life. Choosing heat-resistant casing and positioning the device in shaded areas can mitigate this risk.

• Risk of Corrosion: Hazardous environments often expose devices to corrosive gases or liquids. Using corrosion-resistant battery enclosures and coatings helps protect the battery.

• Mechanical Stress: Environments with high vibration or mechanical impact require ruggedized battery cases to prevent physical damage.

9. Case Studies: Real-World Applications

1. Oil Rig Personnel Tracking

In offshore oil rigs, GNSS trackers powered by lithium battery packs are used to monitor personnel in real time, ensuring safety and facilitating quick responses in emergencies. The trackers are ATEX-certified, meeting rigorous safety standards to prevent ignition in volatile conditions.

2. Mining Equipment Location Monitoring

Mining sites use GNSS trackers to monitor equipment, ensuring they remain operational and safe. Lithium batteries provide extended battery life, reducing the need for frequent replacement in difficult-to-access mining areas.

10. Conclusion and Future Trends

Lithium battery packs are critical for powering GNSS trackers in hazardous environments, offering durability, high energy density, and operational efficiency under extreme conditions. As the demand for robust GNSS tracking solutions grows, advances in lithium battery technology, including higher energy densities, improved thermal management, and longer lifecycle capabilities, will continue to drive innovation in this field. For industries operating in hazardous environments, choosing the right lithium battery pack and following best practices can significantly enhance safety and operational continuity.

11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What makes lithium battery packs suitable for hazardous environments?

Lithium batteries have a high energy density, temperature tolerance, and long life cycle, making them ideal for continuous use in environments where other power sources may fail.

2. Are there specific certifications required for lithium battery packs in hazardous areas?

Yes, certifications such as ATEX and IECEx are required to ensure that lithium batteries meet safety standards for explosive atmospheres.

3. How can I prolong the battery life of GNSS trackers in extreme conditions?

To extend battery life, use protective casings, avoid overcharging, and store batteries in temperature-controlled environments.

4. Can lithium batteries in GNSS trackers withstand high temperatures?

Yes, lithium batteries can typically operate in temperatures ranging from -40°C to 60°C. However, specialized casings and ventilation may be required in higher temperatures.

5. What type of lithium battery pack is best for compact GNSS trackers?

Prismatic or pouch cells are more space-efficient and suitable for compact devices, but they may require extra casing for mechanical protection in hazardous environments.

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