A leading automotive manufacturer required a safe and standardized method for testing lithium-ion cells under extreme mechanical stress. Previous methods were often unreproducible or associated with significant risks to personnel and infrastructure. The goal was to develop a system that would enable controlled crush and nail penetration tests without requiring personnel to be present in the danger zone during testing.

HAINZL developed an electromechanical deformation test bench with precise force and speed control that can perform both crush tests with up to 150 kN of pressure and defined nail penetration tests. A robust design, a high-resolution measuring system, and a safe enclosure ensure reproducible test results with maximum safety. The flexible adjustment of test parameters and the quick change between test procedures result in an efficient and future-proof solution for analyzing the mechanical abuse behavior of battery cells and modules.

Technical data

• Maximum pressing force: 150 kN

• Stroke: 800 mm

• Speed: 0.1–10 mm/s

• Test crosshead with mount for deformation and needle bodies

• Force measurement sensor: 150 kN, ±1% FS, up to 180 °C

• Operation via HMI; functions: open/close press, emergency stop

• Protective measures in accordance with Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC