In the global shift toward green mobility and sustainable development, new energy vehicles (NEVs) have emerged as a pivotal direction for the automotive industry’s transformation, thanks to their zero or low emissions. As a researcher and practitioner in this field, I have observed that the battery thermal management system (BTMS), a critical component of the broader battery management system (BMS), is essential for maintaining batteries within an optimal temperature range. This directly impacts charging and discharging efficiency, lifespan, and overall vehicle safety. However, in practical operations, the BTMS can encounter various faults, compromising NEV performance. In this article, I will explore the BTMS in NEVs, delve into advanced fault diagnosis and repair techniques, and emphasize how efficient troubleshooting ensures stable vehicle operation and promotes sustainable industry growth. My focus will be on integrating the BMS perspective throughout, as the BMS encompasses thermal management, monitoring, and control functions vital for battery health.
The battery management system (BMS) is the brain behind NEV battery packs, with thermal management being one of its core responsibilities. With the NEV market experiencing explosive growth, technological iterations have rapidly advanced, extending driving ranges and improving charging infrastructure. The BMS, through its thermal management subsystem, precisely controls battery temperature to ensure optimal performance. Yet, due to complex operating environments, faults in the BMS thermal management can arise, ranging from minor performance dips to severe incidents like thermal runaway, leading to fires or explosions. Thus, in-depth research into fault diagnosis and repair for the BMS thermal management is crucial for safety, user experience, and industry progress. From my experience, a robust BMS not only monitors temperature but also integrates data analytics and state monitoring to preempt failures.
Overview of the Battery Thermal Management System in New Energy Vehicles
The battery thermal management system (BTMS), as a key part of the BMS, comprises cooling units, heating units, temperature sensors, and control modules. These components work synergistically under the BMS framework to regulate temperature. Below, I summarize the main elements and their roles within the BMS.
| Component | Type | Advantages | Disadvantages | Role in BMS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooling System | Air Cooling | Simple structure, low cost | Limited cooling efficiency | BMS activates fans based on temperature data |
| Cooling System | Liquid Cooling | High efficiency, suitable for dense batteries | Complex, higher cost | BMS controls coolant pumps and flow rates |
| Heating System | Electric Heating Film | Uniform heating, fast response |