Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more and more popular as people become more environmentally conscious and governments implement regulations to reduce carbon emissions. One of the most important components of an electric vehicle is the battery, which stores the energy that powers the vehicle. However, the battery can also be a source of concern for EV owners and manufacturers, as it can overheat, degrade and lose efficiency, leading to reduced range and increased maintenance costs. That's why effective battery cooling is crucial for the performance, reliability, and lifespan of an electric vehicle.

There are two main types of cooling systems used in electric vehicles: liquid cooling and immersive cooling. While both cooling methods have their advantages and disadvantages, the question remains: which one is better for electric vehicle batteries?

Why do electric vehicle batteries need a cooling system?

Electric vehicle batteries generate heat during operation, especially during charging and discharging. This heat can cause the battery to degrade and lose efficiency over time, leading to reduced range and increased maintenance costs. In extreme cases, overheating can also pose a safety risk, as it can cause the battery to catch fire or explode.

A battery cooling system helps to dissipate the heat generated by the battery, keeping it at a safe operating temperature and preventing thermal runaway. If the battery temperature is too high, it can lead to the degradation of the battery's chemistry and its ability to hold a charge. This is especially important in hot climates where the ambient temperature can exacerbate the heat generated by the battery.

Additionally, a well-designed cooling system can help to extend the lifespan of the battery, reducing the need for costly replacements. It can also improve the overall performance of the battery, helping to maintain consistent power output and reducing the risk of power loss during high-demand situations such as acceleration or hill climbing.

How does immersive cooling work?

Immersive cooling, also known as direct immersion cooling, is a type of cooling system used in electric vehicles and other electronics that involves immersing the heat-generating components directly in a dielectric fluid.

In the context of electric vehicle batteries, the battery pack is placed in a tank filled with a dielectric fluid such as oil or synthetic fluorocarbon. The fluid completely surrounds the battery cells, absorbing heat directly from the cell surfaces. Heat is then transferred away from the fluid through a heat exchanger or other cooling system, which dissipates the heat into the environment.

Because the fluid is in direct contact with the battery cells, immersive cooling can be more efficient than other cooling methods, as there is no need for heat to be transferred through intermediate materials. Additionally, the fluid provides natural insulation for the battery cells, which can help to prevent thermal runaway and reduce the risk of fire.

Which is better for your EV battery: liquid or immersive cooling?

According to the BIS Research report, the global immersion cooling fluids market for EVs is projected to reach $3,837.0 million by 2032 from $205.8 million in 2021, growing at a CAGR of 30.78% during the forecast period 2022-2032.

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Immersive cooling offers several advantages over traditional liquid cooling systems for electric vehicle batteries.

Firstly, immersive cooling can be more efficient than liquid cooling. As the dielectric fluid is in direct contact with the battery cells, heat can be absorbed more quickly and efficiently. This means that immersive cooling can often be more effective at dissipating heat and keeping the battery at a safe operating temperature.

Secondly, immersive cooling can provide better insulation for the battery cells. As the fluid surrounds the cells, it can help to prevent thermal runaway and reduce the risk of fire or other safety concerns.

Thirdly, immersive cooling can often be more compact and lightweight than traditional liquid cooling systems, as it does not require complex plumbing or heat exchangers. This can be especially important in electric vehicles, where weight and space constraints are significant concerns.

Finally, immersive cooling can be more cost-effective in some cases. The dielectric fluid used in immersive cooling systems is often less expensive than the coolants used in traditional liquid cooling systems. Additionally, the infrastructure required for immersive cooling can be simpler and less expensive, as there is no need for pumps, pipes, or other components required for traditional liquid cooling systems.

Do immersive cooling systems come with limitations?

Despite several advantages, immersive cooling is not far from its limitations. One potential concern is the risk of fluid leakage, which could damage the electronics or pose a safety risk.

Moreover, the cost of the dielectric fluid and associated infrastructure can also be higher than other cooling methods. Additionally, the fluid must be carefully selected to ensure it is compatible with the battery chemistry and does not cause any unwanted reactions or degradation.

Conclusion

While liquid cooling has been the more traditional method used in electric vehicles, immersive cooling is emerging as a viable alternative, offering several advantages over traditional liquid cooling methods.

According to Dhrubajyoti Narayan, Principal Analyst, BIS Research, "The immersion cooling fluids market for EVs is in the early stage and is expected to grow substantially in the forecast period. The rapid ongoing research and development activities are pushing the market growth significantly.”

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