Glossary: Thermal Runaway

Thermal runaway is a failure condition in which a battery’s temperature increases uncontrollably, potentially leading to fire or rupture.

Expanded Explanation

Thermal runaway occurs when internal heat generation exceeds the battery’s ability to dissipate heat. This may be triggered by overcharging, short circuits, physical damage, or internal defects. Once initiated, temperature rise can become self-sustaining. Preventing thermal runaway is a key focus of battery protection, thermal management, and system design.

Why it matters

Thermal runaway presents serious safety risks and must be mitigated through proper design and controls.

iTECH Context

iTECH designs battery systems with safeguards to reduce thermal runaway risk.

Applications

Lithium battery safety engineering, regulated battery systems

Related Terms

Battery Thermal Management, Battery Protection Circuit, Safety Certification