How To Calculate Internal Heat Generation In Batteries

 
Internal heat generation during the operation of a cell or battery is a critical concern for the battery engineer.

If cells or batteries get too hot, they can rupture or explode.  And Lithium and Lithium-ion cells/batteries can catch on fire when they rupture, creating even more of a safety hazard.

To ensure safe operation over the entire intended operating range of a cell or battery, it is crucial that the battery engineer understands the fundamentals of internal heat generation and be able to calculate the expected adiabatic temperature rise of a cell or battery under any operating condition.  The objective of this article is to provide that fundamental understanding and the methodology for making those calculations.