Why Are Lithium Batteries Restricted from Air Shipping?

Lithium batteries face significant restrictions when it comes to air shipping due to safety concerns related to their chemical composition and potential hazards. These regulations are designed to prevent incidents that could endanger aircraft and passengers. Understanding these restrictions is crucial for anyone involved in shipping lithium batteries.

Why are lithium batteries classified as hazardous materials?

Lithium batteries are classified as hazardous materials because they contain flammable electrolytes and can pose fire risks if damaged or improperly handled. Incidents involving battery fires have led to serious accidents in aviation, prompting regulatory bodies to classify them as dangerous goods. This classification mandates strict handling and transport protocols.Hazard Classification Chart

What regulations govern the air transport of lithium batteries?

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and other regulatory bodies have established comprehensive guidelines for shipping lithium batteries by air. Key regulations include:

1. UN3480 and UN3481 Codes: These codes classify lithium-ion cells and batteries for transport.
2. Cargo Aircraft Only (CAO): Batteries exceeding certain limits must be transported only on cargo aircraft.
3. Training Requirements: Personnel involved in shipping must be trained in handling hazardous materials.

What makes lithium-ion batteries a risk during air transport?

Lithium-ion batteries pose risks during air transport due to:

1. Potential for Fire: If a battery is damaged or short-circuited, it can ignite, leading to fires that are difficult to extinguish.
2. Thermal Runaway: This phenomenon occurs when a battery overheats, causing a chain reaction that can result in an explosion.
3. Pressure Changes: Changes in cabin pressure during flight can affect battery integrity, increasing the risk of failure.

How does the state of charge (SoC) affect shipping restrictions?

The state of charge (SoC) is crucial in determining how lithium batteries can be shipped:

1. Maximum SoC Limits: Batteries must typically be shipped at a SoC not exceeding 30% to reduce fire risk.
2. Regulatory Compliance: Batteries with higher SoC may require special approvals and packaging to ensure safe transport.

SoC Impact Chart

What are the packaging requirements for shipping lithium batteries?

Proper packaging is essential for safely transporting lithium batteries:

1. Inner Packaging: Batteries must be placed in protective cases that prevent short circuits.
2. Outer Packaging: Must be sturdy enough to withstand impacts during transit.
3. Labeling: Packages must display appropriate hazard labels indicating they contain lithium batteries.

How can lithium batteries be shipped safely by air?

To ship lithium batteries safely by air, follow these guidelines:

1. Use Approved Carriers: Ensure that the carrier is certified to handle hazardous materials.
2. Follow IATA Guidelines: Adhere strictly to IATA regulations regarding packaging, labeling, and documentation.
3. Conduct Risk Assessments: Evaluate potential risks associated with transporting each specific battery type.

Tips for Battery Wholesale Buyers
For those interested in OEM orders or wholesale purchases of lithium batteries, consider these key points:

1. Quality Assurance: Choose manufacturers known for their reliability and product quality.
2. Compatibility Checks: Ensure that the products meet specific requirements for performance and safety.
3. Cost Efficiency: Compare prices across suppliers for competitive rates.

Redway Power, a reputable lithium battery manufacturer with over 13 years of experience, is an excellent choice for wholesale buyers seeking dependable products.

Redway Power Expert Views

“Shipping lithium batteries requires strict adherence to safety regulations due to their inherent risks,” states an expert from Redway Power. “By following proper guidelines and using appropriate packaging, we can ensure safe transportation while minimizing hazards.”

FAQs

What does “Ah” mean on a battery and how is battery capacity measured?

• “Ah” on a battery stands for Ampere-hour, a unit of measurement for battery capacity.
• Battery capacity is calculated by multiplying the current (in Amperes) by the time (in hours) it takes for the battery to discharge completely.
• A higher Ah rating indicates a larger capacity and longer runtime for the battery.

What precautions should be taken to protect loose batteries against short circuit?

• Package loose batteries in a fully enclosed inner packaging made of non-conductive material.
• Cover the terminals of batteries using non-conductive caps or tape.
• These precautions prevent accidental contact and potential short circuits.

Can lithium-ion batteries be placed in checked luggage?

• Lithium-ion batteries cannot be placed in checked luggage and must be carried in carry-on baggage.
• TSA regulations require spare lithium-ion batteries to be carried in carry-on baggage due to safety concerns.
• This is to prevent potential hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries during air travel.

What are the FAA rules regarding traveling with lithium-ion batteries?

• Lithium metal and lithium ion/polymer batteries are prohibited in checked baggage.
• These batteries must be carried in carry-on baggage.
• Electronic cigarettes and vaporizers are also prohibited in checked baggage.

What motivated the FAA to implement rules regarding lithium-ion batteries in air travel?

• The FAA implemented rules regarding lithium-ion batteries in air travel.
• The motivation behind these rules is to minimize the risk of fire on commercial aircraft.
• Lithium-ion batteries have a history of incidents involving thermal runaway and fires, which pose a safety hazard during flight.

Are there any quantity limits for carrying lithium-ion batteries?

• There are generally no specific quantity limits for carrying most lithium-ion batteries as a passenger.
• Restrictions may apply to larger lithium-ion batteries with watt-hour ratings exceeding a certain threshold.
• Check with the specific airline and refer to FAA regulations for the most accurate and current information on quantity limits for carrying lithium-ion batteries.

How should loose and spare lithium-ion batteries be transported in carry-on luggage?

• Loose and spare lithium-ion batteries should be transported in carry-on luggage.
• If carry-on baggage is checked at the gate or planeside, spare lithium batteries, electronic cigarettes, and vaping devices must be removed from the baggage and kept with the passenger in the aircraft cabin.
• Protect these items from damage, accidental activation, and short circuits.