Electric racing and PAMAS particle counters

For optimal performance and a long service life of lithium-ion batteries, the optimal operating temperature plays a crucial role. Effective thermal management is therefore crucial and can tip the scales in racing. A synthetic PAO oil is used for thermal management in Formula E (the electric Formula 1).

The optimal operating temperature for lithium-ion batteries is between 44 and 46 degrees Celsius. Outside of this range, battery performance and lifespan may be negatively affected.

The PAO oil in the circuit acts as a medium to stabilize the overall temperature of the entire battery through heat-conducting fluid circulation. The oil has very high insulation resistance so as not to impair the battery's electrical performance.

Charging and discharging the battery causes cumulative wear, which can lead to tiny particles floating in the fluid. These particles can accumulate and form conductive bridges that cause malfunctions.

To ensure optimal battery performance, the oil in the battery's closed circuit must be filtered and the battery cells thoroughly flushed.

The battery flushing facility was designed by our system integrators, Reynolds Contamination Control Ltd, to remove contaminants, qualify the battery cleanliness standard and fluid to AS4059F

In this application, the PAMAS OLS50P online particle counter is used as part of the Reynolds flushing system to monitor oil cleanliness during the filling and cleaning process.

More information about the PAMAS OLS50P:

https://www.pamas.de/particle-counters/products-by-name/pamas-ols50p