Liquid Cooling vs Air Cooling In Battery Energy Storage

The problem is temperature spread, not peak temperature

Cells in a large pack age at different rates when they sit at different temperatures. The pack's usable life is set by the worst cells, so a thermal system that holds a narrow spread across the pack is worth more than one that simply achieves a low average.

Air cooling

Air-cooled cabinets are simpler, have fewer failure points and cost less to maintain. They are well suited to moderate duty cycles and moderate ambient conditions - our air-cooled cabinet and container systems are specified for exactly that range.

Liquid cooling

Liquid cooling moves more heat per unit volume and holds a tighter temperature spread, which matters for high C-rate duty, dense packs and hot climates. It adds a fluid circuit to maintain. Our liquid-cooled cabinets and containers cover the cabinet-scale and megawatt-hour ranges.

Choosing between them

Specify from duty cycle and site climate, not from a preference. High cycling rates and high ambient temperatures favour liquid; moderate duty in a temperate climate rarely justifies the added complexity. Send us the duty profile and site location and we will quote both where both are viable.